CLARITY, CONFIDENCE, AND STABILITY

Financial Resources

Find trustworthy help with budgeting, credit, taxes, public benefits, consumer concerns, and building greater financial stability.

Three women celebrating a Platform of Hope program certificate

Protect yourself from scams   Government agencies and reputable nonprofits will not ask for gift cards, cryptocurrency, or your password to provide benefits. If an offer feels urgent or suspicious, stop and verify it through the organization’s official website or phone number.

A PLACE TO BEGIN

Start with the need in front of you.

You do not have to contact every organization. Choose the resource that most closely matches your situation, confirm current eligibility, and ask a POH coach for help navigating next steps.

1  Write down the specific problem or goal and any deadline before calling for help.

2  Use free or nonprofit counseling before paying a company to repair credit or settle debt.

3  Never share passwords, PINs, or verification codes with someone who contacts you unexpectedly.

WASHINGTON, DC DIRECTORY

Trusted places to find help.

These links lead to government agencies, established community organizations, and POH founding partners. Programs and eligibility can change, so confirm details directly.

01 · FINANCIAL EDUCATION

DC Office of Financial Empowerment & Education

District information and programs designed to help residents manage expenses, maximize income, build savings, and strengthen long-term financial well-being.

(202) 727-8000

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02 · FREE COUNSELING

United Way NCA Financial Empowerment

Free financial counseling and coaching related to money management, credit, housing preparation, employment, and asset building.

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03 · TAX FILING

DC Free Tax Preparation

Current information about IRS-certified free tax preparation for qualifying DC residents, including eligibility and documents to bring.

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04 · TAX HELP

Community Tax Aid

Free tax preparation and tax-related education for lower-income individuals and families in the Washington, DC region.

(202) 547-7773

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05 · PUBLIC BENEFITS

District Direct

Apply for and manage eligible DC public benefits online, including SNAP, TANF, and health coverage programs.

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06 · CONSUMER PROTECTION

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau

Plain-language tools and complaint support for credit, debt collection, mortgages, banking, money transfers, student loans, and other financial products.

(855) 411-2372

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About this directory

Platform of Hope shares these resources for convenience and does not control eligibility, availability, waitlists, or service decisions. Inclusion is not a guarantee or endorsement. Information was reviewed in August 2026.

YOU DO NOT HAVE TO NAVIGATE ALONE

Turn information into a next step.

POH families can work with a coach to identify useful resources, prepare questions, and keep moving toward their goals.