When borrowers default on a federal student loan, it can have catastrophic consequences. Their credit scores drop dramatically, severely curtailing their ability to afford a home or a car, and even limiting their ability to sign up for utilities. The cost of their loan rises as late fees pile up. Moreover, the federal government can garnish…

Federal Student Aid's core mission is to ensure that all eligible Americans benefit from federal financial assistance--grants, loans and work-study programs--for education beyond high school. The programs administered comprise the nation's largest source of student aid. Every year, the U.S. Department of Education provides more than $83 billion in…

This booklet is designed to help consumers understand and manage credit. It is suitable for personal use by adults or for classroom use in junior high through adult consumer education classes. The booklet is organized in two parts. The first part explains consumer credit: what it is, pros and cons, cost of credit, establishing credit, types of…

This text teaches students about money management and is designed to help the student as he or she tries to live within limits and decide important financial questions. Students are instructed about: getting control of your money; tracking your spending; figuring your income and expenses; making your spending plan balance; making money decisions;…

This booklet is designed to help individuals make housing decisions in an informed, rational manner. It is suitable for personal use by adults or for classroom use in junior high through adult home economics or consumer education classes. After helping the reader determine needs and wants and how much money is available for housing, the booklet…