“Household CFOs” Take Charge (NAPSA)—Americans have found ways to take control of their household finances, even in tough economic times. Still, a recent survey of “Household CFOs”—individuals in charge of managing family finances—found that two out of three households in the U.S. do not have an emergency savings account. Analysts say that could put them at financial risk in the Are You The Household CFO? 1. Do you take primary responsibility for paying bills? 2. Do you establish and maintain the household budget? 3. Do you spend more than two hours per week managing household finances? 4. Do you manage household finances has not prepared a will, pur- because you are the only adult memberof your household or because your spouse handles other household responsibilities? made other preparationsfor a significant life-changing event. Yet, almost half of those surveyed have already experienced somesort of If you answered “Yes” to more than one question above, you are the Household CFO. Free financial resources are available at www.HouseholdCFO.org. @ household in the past year. The survey was conducted by American families,” said Mechel Glass, director of education for event of a crisis. Additionally, nearly one in three households chased insurance of any kind or financial setback within their Consumer Credit Counseling Ser- vice (CCCS) of Greater Atlanta, a national, nonprofit credit counsel- ing agency. In response to survey findings and current economic conditions, the group is launching a national financial awareness campaign, “Household CFO.” It is also enhancing its CredAbilityU online education program, which offers free interactive Webinars and financial managementtools. The organization provides confidential budget counseling, money man- agement education, debt management programs, bankruptcy counseling and education, and comprehensive housing counseling to individuals nationwide. “The credit and foreclosure crisis has shed light on the serious financial issues faced by many CCCS. “In today’s economy, many Household CFOs feel like they have too much on their plate or aren't equipped to make long-term financial plans. They often become overwhelmed with paying bills, managing accounts and overseeing spending. And now, the increased cost of groceries and gas has led many families to the verge of financial crisis.” Free Resources Glass recommendsthe following free resources to help families take chargeof their financial future: Household CFO campaign site, www. HouseholdCFO.org Consumer advocate Ilyce Glink’s site, www. ThinkGlink.com Credit score-reporting site, www.MyFico.com e Free credit report site, www.AnnualCreditReport.com.
