When it comes to talking about money, a lack of financial knowledge and the uneasiness of discussing sensitive issues keeps some people silent and risks the financial health of many families.

Let's Talk Money is a free 8-week online series offered by University of Illinois Extension consumer economics professionals to help families begin talking about important financial matters.

"The more you know, the more empowered you are to improve your financial wellness and grow your financial opportunities, even in difficult times, says Kathy Sweedler, Extension consumer economics educator. "Add to your financial knowledge by taking one or the sessions or all."

Register online prior to the webinar date to receive connection information.

Illinois Extension provides equal opportunities in programs and employment. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in programming, contact the webinar organizer. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time for meeting your needs.

Topics include:

• WHO ARE YOU WITH MONEY: Begin with a Spending Plan
  June 4 | 6:30 PM
  The first step to taking control of your money is matching your values and goals to your financial decision-making. In this interactive workshop, assess who you are with money, and where you want to be in the future.
• BORROWING: How Much is Too Much
  June 11 | 6:30 PM
  Deciding when and how much credit to use depends on the financial situation. Discover different scenarios when you might use credit, and learn options for borrowing money from creditors. 
• UNEQUAL ACCESS TO CREDIT: How Does that Affect You?
  June 18 | 6:30 PM
  Not all individuals and families have the same access to credit. While consumer laws offers protection from discrimination, this problem still affects many consumers. In this webinar, we will explore some of the challenges of obtaining credit as well as unfair lending practices that create barriers to accessing mainstream credit market. 
• WHAT'S YOUR BEST DEBT REPAYMENT STRATEGY
  June 25 | 6:30 PM
  Repaying debt is challenging in the best of situations, and today's economic situation makes it more difficult. Learn tried and true strategies for prioritizing debt repayment, and paying it down effectively. Explore options for student loan repayment too. 
• CREDIT SCORES REVEALED
  July 9 | 6:30 PM
  Why is credit such a mystery? What's the difference between a credit score, credit report and credit history? Learn this and more!. 
• BEST KEPT SECRETS FOR FINANCIAL SUCCESS
  July 16 | 6:30 PM
  Money comes in. Money goes out. Do you have money left for your important goals and wants? Learn the secrets of directing your money to where you want it to go. 
• FACING FINANCIAL FEARS
  July 23 | 6:30 PM
  Our financial fears and personal biases can hold us back from making wise financial decisions. Learn how to overcome poor spending choices by using behavioral economics techniques. 
• MAKE YOUR SAVINGS GROW
  July 30 | 6:30 PM
  Do you feel alone in your struggle to save? Financial experts have emphasized the importance of saving for unexpected events and long-term financial goals. However, people at different income levels encounter challenges with saving. This webinar addresses this issue and provides practical ways to help you grow and maintain healthy saving behaviors. 

Source: Kathy Sweedler, Extension Educator, Consumer Economics
Writer: Judy Mae Bingman, Extension Marketing Communications Manager