Preparing Your Credit for Renting or Buying a Home

Preparing Your Credit for Renting or Buying a Home

June is all about housing at America Saves, and our newest podcast episode discusses something that plays an important role whether you're preparing to rent your next apartment or buy your first home: your credit. We're joined by Jenelle Dito from FICO® to help you better understand credit and how it can impact your housing goals. Some questions we cover include: * What should you be paying attention to when it comes to your credit score? * Which credit scores matter for mortgages? * What should renters know about credit scores? Taking a few simple steps today when it comes to your credit can help create more opportunities and options for your future.

Your Money Mindset

It's Mental Health Awareness Month and our team has been putting together new resources around building a positive relationship with your money. And honestly, that starts with something that doesn't always get talked about, but shapes everything... Your Money Mindset In our newest episode, the America Saves team (Amy, Krystel, and Kelly) sit down to discuss what exactly a money mindset is and how to build financial confidence through small wins. This podcast is a message from our team to you – to help you feel seen, supported and encouraged as you work on your relationship with money.

Your Story, Your Future: America Saves Week 2026

As America Saves Week comes to a close, we invite you to look ahead, because your financial journey isn't just about getting started, it's about staying engaged over time. In this final episode, Your Story, Your Future, Amy is joined by financial planner Matthew Moore of Planning Alliance for a practical, real-life conversation about what financial planning actually looks like, especially when life is busy, unpredictable, and far from perfect. Together, they break down common scenarios many savers face, from recent graduates and young professionals with debt to parents feeling behind and small business owners managing inconsistent income. Through each example, they highlight simple, actionable steps you can take today to move forward, without overwhelm. This episode reinforces a powerful message from the week: you don't need a perfect plan to build a strong financial future. What matters most is consistency, flexibility, and staying connected to your goals over time. You'll walk away with: * A new way to think about financial planning (hint: it's not about perfection) * Practical steps tailored to real-life situations * Encouragement to build habits that support long-term success * Tools to help you stay engaged, including monthly and quarterly financial check-ins Because your financial future isn't shaped by one big decision! It's built step by step, month by month. Tune in and take your next step.

Rewriting the Debt Narrative: America Saves Week 2026

Day 4 of America Saves Week 2026 is all about rewriting the debt narrative and moving from feeling overwhelmed to feeling informed and in control. In this episode, Amy is joined by Morgan Spears from Working Credit to talk about why so many people avoid looking at their debt, and what actually happens when they do. Together, they break down what's really in a credit report, clear up common myths, and explain how understanding your full financial picture can open the door to real progress. You'll hear about: * Why avoiding debt and credit is so common and how to move past it * What to look for when reviewing your credit report * Common credit myths (and what's actually true) * How credit counseling can help you make sense of your situation * Why clarity is one of the most powerful tools for building confidence This conversation is a reminder that information isn't something to fear, it's something you can use. When you understand where you stand, you can make a plan that works for you. If you've been putting this off, consider this your moment to take that first step.

Building a Strong Foundation: America Saves Week 2026

Kicking off America Saves Week 2026, Day 1 is all about building a financial foundation that actually works for your life…not a perfect plan, but one you can stick with. In this episode, Amy is joined by Valerie Richards from Association for Financial Counseling, Planning & Education to break down what it really means to feel financially grounded. Together, they walk through simple, realistic steps to help you understand where you are, identify what matters most, and take action in a way that fits your day-to-day life. You'll learn how to: * Get a clear picture of your finances without overwhelm * Choose priorities that make the biggest impact * Use simple tools, like automation, to build momentum * Stay flexible and adjust as life changes If you've ever felt like financial advice doesn't fit your reality, this episode is for you. Start where you are, take one small step, and begin building a foundation that supports your goals, today and over time.