Credit unions’ help for tax filers is just one way of combating a more pervasive problem in the state: consumers being targeted by non-traditional financial providers charging excessive costs for services that can be obtained more reasonably through mainstream providers like credit unions.

Through an initiative called REAL Solutions, Wisconsin credit unions are providing lower-cost alternatives to high-cost financial services and developing programs that may be able to help you improve your financial position over time.

Ask your credit union about:

• Short term or payday loan alternatives that don’t charge excessive fees and interest
• Help with budget or debt
• Free classes on personal finance, e.g. credit, ID theft or home-buying
• Other programs they may offer to help members realize their financial goals
  

While many of these services do not drive profits for credit unions, they offer them as part of their mission as cooperatives. The purpose of not-for-profit credit unions is to serve members, not make profits.