Money is stressful. You don’t have to figure it out alone.
The Syracuse Financial Empowerment Center (SFEC) helps City of Syracuse residents take control of their finances, reduce financial stress, and work toward their goals through free, confidential, one-on-one financial counseling.
Whether you’re trying to pay down debt, improve your credit, build savings, prepare for a major purchase, or simply get organized, a financial counselor can help.
No products. No sales. No pressure. No judgement
Financial counselors do not sell products, earn commissions, or recommend financial products. Their only goal is helping you achieve yours.
What Can We Help With?
Our financial counselors can help you:
-Create a budget and manage monthly expenses
-Improve your credit
-Pay down debt
-Build emergency savings
-Plan for a vehicle or home purchase
-Navigate student loans
-Set financial goals and create a plan to reach them
-Prepare for the future, including beneficiaries and basic estate planning considerations
-Connect with community resources that support financial stability
What to Expect
Schedule an appointment
Choose a time that works for you.
Create a Plan
Work together to identify practical next steps and build a plan that fits your situation.
Continue as Needed
Some people come once to get started. Others continue meeting with a counselor for ongoing support and accountability. The biggest results often happen over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible?
Any City of Syracuse resident can participate. There are no income requirements, and services are provided at no cost.
Is it really free?
Yes. Financial counseling is completely free for City of Syracuse residents.
Is there a catch?
No. Counselors do not sell products, earn commissions, or receive incentives based on your decisions.
Do I need to be in financial trouble?
No. People use financial counseling for many reasons – from reducing debt and improving credit to building savings and planning for future goals.
Are appointment confidential?
Yes. Your information is private and confidential.
Do I need to bring anything?
No. You can start with a conversation. Your counselor will let you know if any documents would be helpful.
Ready to Get Started?
Take the first step toward greater financial stability.
Schedule a free appointment with a financial counselor today. (Link Coming Soon)
About the Syracuse Financial Empowerment Center
The Syracuse Financial Empowerment Center is a partnership between the City of Syracuse, the Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund, and United Way of Central New York.
As part of United Way of Central New York’s Financial Security work, the Financial Empowerment Center helps individuals and families build financial stability, reduce debt, increase savings, and plan for the future.
