Student Resources

Consumer Help

Better Business Bureau (BBB) 
Research businesses in your area, or report businesses that act unethically or that use potentially illegal business practices.

Credit Reporting Agencies
The three credit reporting agencies that compile your credit report and score.

TransUnion 
Experian 
Equifax 

Federal Trade Commission 
Find information on consumer protection laws, your rights, and ways you can protect yourself, your identity and your money.

Free Credit Report
Allows you a free copy of your credit report from all three credit reporting agencies once every 12 months, or a free copy from your choice of one of the credit reporting agencies once every 4 months.

National Do Not Call List
Allows you to add your phone number to the national list so soliciting creditors and telemarketers do not send you unwanted credit card applications. Also prohibits prospective creditors and other telemarketers from calling you at home.

Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE)  
Provides free help with starting a business with expert help and advice from retired executives.

United Way
Find your local United Way branch for multiple community resources.

US Attorney General 
Report possible violations of consumer protection acts and laws.

US Department of Labor  
Contains information on unemployment benefits, job searches, etc.

 Housing

Bankrate 
Allows you to calculate mortgage, interest, and car rates; contains retirement calculators. Also allows you to compare different credit card offers.

Housing and Urban Development (HUD) 
Contains foreclosure prevention information, assistance with home searches, and more.

 Food Assistance

Food Stamp Benefits 
Provides information about food stamp benefits and contains an online application.

WIC 
Women, infants, and children: supplies protein foods (milk, cheese) for low income families.
Usually for children up to 5 years old.

Elderly

AARP 
Provides resources for the elderly along with an online application to join the AARP membership.

Social Security 
Provides information on social security benefits.

 Education

Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)  
Provides a free online application for federal student financial aid.

US Department of Education 
Contains information on grant opportunities, student financial aid, and more. 

Medical Expense Help

American Diabetic Foundation 
Provides free medical supplies for teachers and social workers. 

Medicare 
Contains eligibility requirements for Medicare enrollment, compares prescription drug prices, and more.