CUNA Certified Financial Counselor School: Part II
Topics & Objectives

Please note that the Topics/Objectives listed below are subject to change.

The Basics of Insurance

• Understand the basic concepts of insurance
• Learn the different types of insurance needs and coverage
• Understand how to reduce and control insurance costs

Consumer Fraud

• Learn about current consumer fraud issues
• Know how to protect your members and credit union from fraud

Controlling Living Expenses

• Establish 10 ways for members to save money on living expenses
• Learn cost-cutting options for housing, whether renting or purchasing a home
• Discuss ways to cut insurance, utility, and telecommunication costs
• Learn how to change spending habits for food, clothing, and gift expenses

Dealing with Members Who Have Addictions

• Explore the financial consequences of addictions
• Identify the signs of various addictions
• Examine the implications of working with members having an addiction
• Learn how to help members achieve financial stability when spouses have an addiction

Education Planning & Savings

• Identify ways of making savings automatic and habitual
• Discover the impact of employer matching savings programs
• Explore the use of Independent Development Accounts (IDAs)
• Examine the power of interest and the "Rule of 72"
• Evaluate different ways of planning for college expenses

How Taxes Affect Income & Decisions

• Discuss the different types of taxes
• Learn how taxes impact financial decisions
• Understand how pre-tax and post-tax savings may affect retirement income decisions
• Gain a better understanding of the Earned Income Tax Credit

Investment Basics

• Learn basic investment terms and concepts
• Understand the concept of time value of money
• Discuss investment options and risks

Money Conflicts

• Examine how family issues can be the cause of money conflicts
• Discuss the challenges involved with separation, divorce, and blended families
• Explore the money conflicts associated with members who are self-employed
• Understand the money challenges for members who rely on tips, commissions, or seasonal employment as their main source of income

Money Related Values & Beliefs

• Explore the sources and power of values and beliefs about money
• Understand member sensitivity with money matters
• Examine the impact of lack of money management training in schools
• Explore the impact of parents as financial role models
• Identify how financial anxiety and apathy can lead to problems and financial insecurity

Retirement Planning

• Identify current myths regarding retirement planning
• Examine retirement planning alternatives including 401(k), 403(b), IRA, SEP, and SIMPLE IRA plans

Understanding Consumer Credit

• Understand the five categories comprising a credit score
• Learn how to help members build a better score
• Evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of using credit
• Discuss the risks and rewards of using home equity as a solution to financial problems
• Determine the best options in restructuring debt and repayment

After class each day you may participate in optional review and exam sessions to obtain your Certified Credit Union Financial Counseling (CCUFC) certification.

For more program content information or to request a brochure call 800-356-9655, ext. 4249, or email elearning@cuna.coop. For registration questions, call 800-356-9655, ext.4400 or e-mail reginfo@cuna.coop.