2023 Financial Literacy Resource Webinar

Department of Financial Protection and Innovation

The Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI) provides a variety of information and resources with a goal providing consumers, like you, with tools essential to make smart financial decisions.

Access our free resources and learn more: www.DFPI.ca.gov/outreach

California Housing Finance Agency

For more than 45 years, the California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA) has supported the needs of low- and moderate-income renters and homebuyers by providing financing and programs with a focus on equity. Established in 1975, CalHFA was chartered as the state’s affordable housing lender. The Agency’s Multifamily Lending Division finances affordable rental housing through collaborations with developers, local, state and federal government partners and more, while its Single Family Division partners with a preferred lender network to provide first-time homebuyers with down payment and closing cost assistance and access to first mortgage loans. CalHFA is a self-supported state agency that doesn’t rely on taxpayer dollars for its operational costs but regularly administers various state and federal resources on behalf of the state.

Check out our website at www.calhfa.ca.gov

California State Controller’s Office – Unclaimed Property

California’s Unclaimed Property Law requires banks, insurance companies, corporations, and certain other entities to report and submit their customers’ property to the State Controller’s Office when there has been no activity for a period of time (generally three years). Find out if the Controller is protecting property in your name!

• Learn more about the State Controller’s function: https://www.sco.ca.gov/eo_about_func.html
• Learn more Unclaimed Property: https://www.sco.ca.gov/upd_msg.html

Contact information:

• State Controller’s Office – Executive Office: (916) 445-2636, eoinquiry@sco.ca.gov

CalSavers

CalSavers is California’s retirement savings program, created by state law to improve retirement security for Californians who don’t have a way to save for retirement at work. Under the law, employers are required to join CalSavers if they do not sponsor a retirement plan. On January 1, 2023, businesses with as few as one employee became eligible to join CalSavers if they do not sponsor a retirement plan.

For savers, CalSavers is a completely voluntary workplace IRA program designed to be simple and portable from job to job. Operating at no taxpayer expense, CalSavers is professionally managed by private sector financial firms with oversight from a transparent public board chaired by the State Treasurer.

CalSavers enables employers to provide their employees with access to a payroll deduction Individual Retirement Account (IRA) with no employer fees or fiduciary responsibility.

For more information visit CalSavers.com. The CalSavers team hosts free public webinars for employers and savers in English, Spanish, Cantonese, and Mandarin. To see the webinar schedule visit CalSavers.com/events.

California Department of Human Resources (CalHR) – Savings Plus retirement program

Savings Plus is a voluntary retirement program that allows eligible employees or officers on the payroll of the CA state to supplement their retirement benefits through tax-deferred and Roth payroll contributions. Savings Plus offers a 401(k) Plan and a 457(b) Plan.

Learn more about Savings Plus: https://www.savingsplusnow.com

California State Treasurer’s Office – ScholarShare 529 college savings plan

With ScholarShare 529, you get tax-free growth, low fees, and smart investments from a flexible college savings plan. Getting started is easy: learn about the plan, research investments, and open an account.

Learn more about ScholarShare: https://www.scholarshare529.com/

• ScholarShare brochure (PDF)

Contact:

• Adrianne Selsor, Outreach Specialist
• 916-698-7589
• Adrianne.Selsor@treasurer.ca.gov

The California Department of Insurance

The California Department of Insurance (CDI) is the consumer protection agency for the nation’s largest insurance marketplace, overseeing more than 1,400 insurance companies, and licensing more than 450,000 agents, brokers, adjusters, and business entities. CDI also conducts market conduct reviews, resolves consumer complaints, and investigates and prosecutes insurance fraud. For more information, visit http://www.insurance.ca.gov or call 1-800-927-4357

CDI also administers the California Low Cost Auto Insurance Program (CLCA), a state-sponsored program that provides affordable liability insurance to low-to-moderate-income California drivers regardless of immigration status. For more information and to see if you qualify, visit www.mylowcostauto.com or call 866-602-8861.

Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC)

The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) is an independent agency created by Congress to maintain stability and public confidence in the nation’s financial system. To accomplish this mission, the FDIC insures deposits; examines and supervises financial institutions for safety, soundness, and consumer protection; makes large and complex financial institutions resolvable; and manages receiverships.

The FDIC Money Smart financial education program can help people of all ages enhance their financial skills and create positive banking relationships. First released in 2001 and regularly updated since then, Money Smart has a long track record of success.

Instructor-led formats can be used by anyone, even if they have no formal training, to train people of all ages and small businesses.  Self-paced learning options include How Money Smart Are You? with 14 animated games and related resources covering everyday financial topics. Players can earn virtual coins and certificates of completion. Organizations can create accounts to view game play and certificates for players who choose to link their accounts.

Senior Gateway

Empowering California Seniors with Information and Resources. Senior Gateway is a one-stop website intended to provide seniors, their families, and caregivers with the information they need to connect to helpful services and resources, to find answers, and solve problems.

This includes information on topics such as: Avoiding and Reporting Abuse & Neglect, Preventing Fraud, Financial Abuse & Common Scams, Health Care Information, and Your Rights

Senior Gateway is sponsored by the Elder Financial Abuse Interagency Roundtable (E-FAIR), a working group with representatives from many California State agencies, and is hosted by the California Department of Insurance.

Senor Gateway: https://seniors.insurance.ca.gov/

U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission

The mission of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is to protect investors; maintain fair, orderly, and efficient markets; and facilitate capital formation. The SEC strives to promote a market environment that is worthy of the public’s trust.

As part of that mission, the SEC provides free investor education in a number of forums, including by providing in-person (when permitted) and virtual presentations on investing wisely and avoiding fraud.

Please see the SEC’s investor-friendly website, http://www.investor.gov, which features investor alerts and bulletins and a wealth of financial tools and resources.

For more information, contact Joanne Morris, losangeles@sec.gov or visit www.sec.gov

U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)

The U.S. Small Business Administration’s Fresno District Office is responsible for the delivery of SBA’s many programs and services for the counties of Alpine, Fresno, Inyo, Kern, Kings, Madera, Mariposa, Merced, Mono, Monterey, San Benito, San Luis Obispo, Stanislaus, Tulare and Tuolumne in Central California.

The SBA empowers small businesses to:

• Connect with advocates and mentors via our network of resource partners, including SCORE mentors, Small Business Development Centers, Women’s Business Centers, and the Veterans Business Outreach Center, all powered by the SBA.
• Access capital with SBA-guaranteed loans from local lenders to create or retain jobs, buy equipment, and build or renovate commercial real estate.
• Rebuild and recover with SBA disaster assistance programs.
• Obtain federal contracting awards using the SBA 8a, HUBZone, and woman-owned small business certification programs.

SBA Fresno District Office
Email:  fresno@sba.gov
Phone:  559-487-5791
https://www.sba.gov/offices/district/ca/fresno

Social Security Administration

The Social Security Administration (SSA) is part of the retirement plan for almost every American worker. It provides replacement income for qualified retirees and their families. We are constantly expanding our online service offerings to give you freedom and control in how you wish to conduct business with Social Security. Today, you can apply for benefits, check the status of your claim or appeal, request a replacement Social Security card (in many areas), get an instant benefit verification letter, and much more. View our full list of online services.

• Company Website address: www.socialsecurity.gov
• Fraud Awareness:  Beware of Social Security Phone Scams! Report The Scam At: OIG.SSA.GOV
• Information for Groups and Organizations: https://www.ssa.gov/thirdparty/groups/
• SSA Social Media:
  
• When to Start Receiving Retirement Benefits
• How Your Retirement Benefit is Calculated
• How Work Affects Your Benefits
• Social Security Office Locator

Contact:  Public Affairs Specialist Michael Teixeria at Michael.teixeira@ssa.gov

AARP

AARP is a national nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that empowers people to choose how they live as they age.

For more information about resources in Sacramento, visit https://local.aarp.org/sacramento-ca/.

For more about AARP and find an office near you, visit https://www.aarp.org/

For questions, contact Kris Ritualo at Kritualo@aarp.org

Credit Union of Southern California

Credit Union of Southern California (CU SoCal) is a leading financial institution empowering those who live, work, worship, or attend school in Orange County, Los Angeles County, Riverside County, and San Bernardino County to reach their goals and build strong financial futures. As part of the CU SoCal community, you get full access to financial planning education resources designed to help you achieve your financial goals.

No matter your age, income, or goals, financial planning is the cornerstone to how you live your life. Savvy saving and spending can help you have more money to buy daily necessities, pay your bills, make dream purchases such as a new house or car, or retire comfortably. From quick video tips and online classes to in-person workshops and one-on-one financial coaching, our CU SoCal is here to provide the tools, connections, and financial planning services you need to get ahead.

• Credit Unions Vs Banks – Did you know Credit Unions are owned by their Members and are considered a cooperative institution where earnings are returned to Members?
• Budgeting Basics – Take control of your finances by creating a budget and following these major money hacks!
• Money Tips – Ready to start planning for your future? Check out these 11 Money Tips that will help you along your financial journey.

For more information, contact Angelica Gallegos at AGallegos@CUSoCal.org or (657) 607-4290.

• CU SoCal Website
• Financial Guidance Resources

Financial Planning Association

The Financial Planning Association® (FPA®) in California has thirteen chapters that were formed to be an advocate on behalf of our members and their clients regarding issues that impact our clients’ financial success and the financial planning profession. In addition, FPA in California seeks to be a resource for the state’s elected and appointed officials, offering an informed, professional perspective on legislative and regulatory issues.

FPA in California

• FPA in California is a coalition of the state’s ten chapters, FPA of Northern California, FPA of the East Bay,FPA of San Francisco, FPA of Silicon Valley, FPA of Central California, FPA of Ventura County, FPA of the West Valleys, FPA of San Gabriel Valley, FPA of Los Angles, and FPA of San Diego.
  • There are approximately 3,000 FPA members in California.
  • According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are 32,990 personal financial advisors inthe California.1 The Bureau of Labor Statistics defines personal financial advisor as those who “advise clients on financial plans using knowledge of tax and investment strategies, securities, insurance, pension plans, and real estate. Duties include assessing clients’ assets, liabilities, cash flow, insurance coverage, tax status, and financial objectives. May also buy and sell financial assets for clients.”
• FPA members work with clients on topics ranging from budgeting, debt management, student loans, credit card debt, insurance, taxes, retirement, investments and estate planning.

For more, visit https://www.financialplanningassociation.org/chapter/fpa-california-council

Why is financial planning important to California?

• Financial planning promotes financial literacy and stability to California savers from all walks of life and at every economic level.
• FPA promotes and participates in pro bono activities in our local communities.
  • We host community-based educational forums on personal finance.
  • We provide pro-bono tax preparation and financial planning services for low-income families.
  • We have student outreach programs that teach financial literacy in our schools and through community organizations.

Additional Resources:

www.letsmakeaplan.org – Find a CFP professional search, guidelines on how to choose a financial planner (strictly CFPs).

www.plannersearch.org – Another resource for finding a financial planner, similar to above, but not limited just to CFPs.

www.ffpprobono.org – Supports pro bono financial planning for underserved and impacted groups (i.e. cancer patients, veterans, etc.)

www.advisersgiveback.org – Connects pro bono CFP professionals offering pro bono advice with pro bono clients.

Contact:

Landon Tymochko, CFP ^®, AIF ^®
Financial Advisor
CA Insurance License #0I18217

950 Glenn Drive, Suite 230, Folsom, CA 95630
(916) 984-1150  Fax: (916) 984-8698  Toll Free: (877) 253-7543
e-mail: Landon@LeslieRoperDay.com    website: www.LeslieRoperDay.com

Landon Tymochko is a Registered Representative and Investment Adviser Representative with/and offers securities and advisory services through Commonwealth Financial Network, Member FINRA/SIPC, a Registered Investment Adviser.  Fixed insurance products and services are separate from and not offered through Commonwealth Financial Network. 

SAFE Credit Union

SAFE Credit Union is a not-for-profit, state-chartered credit union serving the Greater Sacramento region that has made members an integral part of its community vision since 1940. Through SAFE’s Workplace Financial Wellness (WFW) program, SAFE financial education experts have supported employee productivity, retention, and satisfaction for many Sacramento employers, including some of the Sacramento region’s largest, with services tailored for their employees’ unique needs. Insured by NCUA.

To learn how your workplace can benefit from SAFE’s no-cost Workplace Financial Wellness program, visit www.safecu.org/employers.

To access SAFE’s Employee Money Management Toolkit with a myriad of financial literacy tools, such as financial calculators, entertaining blogs, budgeting worksheets, special offers and on-demand learning, visit  https://www.safecu.org/community/financial-education.

To learn more about SAFE, visit safecu.org.

For questions on how to take advantage of SAFE’s no-cost Workplace Financial Wellness benefit, contact Karen Shahhosseini at karen.shahhosseini@safecu.org

Travis Credit Union

At Travis Credit Union, we are committed to helping people take control of their financial lives. Celebrating 70 years of ‘People Helping People’ in 2021, Travis Credit Union’s Awesome Cause was created to change lives and lift communities through financial wellness. For free financial education resources, live and on-demand webinars, and financial coaching through Greenpath, please visit traviscu.org/awesomecause.

Contact: Galen Dobbins, Government Affairs Officer, gdobbins@traviscu.org.

The Sacramento Municipal Utility District

The Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) is a not-for profit public utility that has been providing our customers with reliable power for more than 70 years.

SMUD is here to help you. We understand that many customers still face financial difficulties the lasting and continue to make every effort to help our customers keep their power on. To prevent disconnections, please take advantage of our financial assistance programs, flexible payment plans and other community resources to help you with your SMUD bill. Learn more at http://smud.org/HereToHelp. For income eligible customers, we offer the Energy Assistance Program Rate (EAPR). This program provides income eligible customers with a monthly discount based on household size and income at the time of application.

Learn more at:

• We’re Here to Help
• Estamos aquí para ayudar en Español
• EAPR Discount
• Programa de Asistencia de EnergÍa en Español
• MED Rate
• Descuento para equipos medicos en Español

Clean PowerCity
Clean PowerCity en Español

1-888-742-7683
customerservices@smud.org
SMUD.org

Address:
Customer Service Center
6301 S St.
Sacramento, CA 95817

Anita Johnson & Associates

Anita Renee’ Johnson is the founder of ARJ & Associate, a company she formed in 1996 with the mission to equip women business owners with sound financial advice allowing them to make sound financial decisions.

Money Wisdom for Women (MWFW), founded by Ms. Johnson in 2009, is a spin-off company of ARJ & Associates, whose mission is to equip women with wealth building skills, allowing them to leave a legacy for their children.

Let Anita help you enhance your healthy financial habits taking away fear, anxiety, uneasiness, guilt and so many other unhealthy feelings.

Contact: Anita R Johnson & Associates Inc.
info@moneywisdomforwomen.com
916-253-6444 Office
https://www.moneywisdomforwomen.com/

Operation Hope

Our focus is financial dignity and inclusion. We equip young people and adults with the financial tools and education to secure a better future—coaching them through their personal aspirations and life’s challenges, and facilitating their journey to financial independence.

For more information, visit https://operationhope.org/

Contact Yolanda Butler 925-567-4906 or yolanda.butler@operationhope.org