March 6, 2013
** National Consumer Protection Week Consumer Alert***
Carson City, NV – As part of National Consumer Protection Week Nevada Attorney General Catherine Cortez Masto encourages consumers to work with free, nonprofit financial literacy organizations to receive the most essential resources provided through these programs.
“It is important that Nevadans know what no-fee programs are available to help them gain financial stability,” said Masto. “Financial education fosters financial stability for individuals, families and local communities. The more that Nevadans learn about credit, banking services and financial management, the more likely they are to increase savings, purchase homes and improve their financial health.”
Financial Literacy Programs
Nevadans who are working toward asset development, financial stability and self-sufficiency may find assistance by participating in a variety of educational programs and services.
Programs and resources that are available include: housing education and down-payment assistance grants for first time homebuyers provided by Neighborhood Housing Services of Southern Nevada, Community Services of Nevada, Chicanos Por La Causa, Housing for Nevada, and Financial Guidance Center; free tax preparation, Individual Development Accounts, which provides matched savings for homeownership, entrepreneurship and education/vocational school, establishment of checking and savings accounts and Lending Circles, a zero interest loan which also helps establish or reestablish credit are available through Financial Guidance Center, and; free financial literacy and legal education classes provided by Nevada Legal Services and Financial Guidance Center.
“Nevadans should reach out to these free resources, programs and services to ensure they are taking advantage of all benefits to which they may be entitled,” said Masto. “Many consumers have weathered the economic downturn and are on the road to financial recovery.”
This consumer alert is part of National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW), March 3-9, 2013. Starting Monday, March 4 and running through Friday, March 8, the Nevada Attorney General’s Office will issue daily consumer alerts relevant to Nevadans.
More information about NCPW is also available at ncpw.gov. Consumer Protection information can also be found on the Attorney General’s website (ag.nv.gov), and the Federal Trade Commission’s website (ftc.gov).
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