It has never been more important to understand and manage your finances. ACTION's free Financial Literacy classes are offered thanks to funding from the American Recovery & Reinvestment Act and in partnership with Money Management International. Whether it's banking, bills, or bankruptcy, these simple classes can help you get control and prepare for the future. Join us for free financial advice, refreshments, and a chance to win a gift card raffle!

RSVP required ■ Call today to learn more and sign up

Gloucester classes: 978-282-1000 x103 ■ Ipswich classes: 978-879-3667 ■ Rockport classes: 978-879-3487

Class Schedule

GLOUCESTER

180 Main Street (enter through 5 Pleasant Street), Gloucester, MA *

Bankruptcy: 6-8 pm, April 7 & July 14

Credit Reports & Credit Scores: 6-7 pm, May 26 & August 25

Managing Income & Expenses: 6-7 pm, June 16

When Income Decreases but the Bills Don't: 6-7 pm, April 14 *

*The "When Income Decreases" class will be held at The Open Door at 28 Emerson Ave. in Gloucester

IPSWICH

15 Market Street, Suite 4 (enter through the Birth to Three Center), Ipswich, MA

Bankruptcy: 6-8 pm, June 9

Basic Banking: 6-7 pm, June 15

Credit Reports & Credit Scores: 6-7 pm, April 13 & July 14

Managing Income & Expenses: 6-7 pm, August 24

ROCKPORT

37D Whistlestop Mall, Rockport, MA

Bankruptcy: 6-8 pm, May 10, August 16 & September 20

Credit Reports & Credit Scores: 6-7 pm, June 14 & September 13

Managing Income & Expenses: 6-7 pm, April 12

When Income Decreases but the Bills Don't: 6-7 pm, August 23

Class Descriptions

■ Bankruptcy: A local attorney will discuss bankruptcy, your rights under state and federal laws, and whether bankruptcy is the right choice for you.

■ Basic Banking: Learn the basics of banking – getting your accounts in order and managing them, and  avoiding fees.

■ Credit Reports & Credit Scores: Learn how to read and understand your credit report, and how your score affects your long- term plans and financial goals.

■ Managing Income & Expenses: Learn how to create a spending plan, prioritize your finances, work toward long-term goals, and save for emergencies.

■ When Income Decreases but the Bills Don’t: Learn how to cope with one of the most stressful events in your life by setting financial priorities and establishing a spending and savings plan.