Clarity, confidence, and stability

Financial Resources

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

A Platform of Hope family celebrating an achievement

Curated for Washington, DC families

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 and confirm current eligibility.

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.

FINANCIAL EDUCATION
01 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 Visit resource ↗
FREE COUNSELING
02 United Way NCA Financial Empowerment
Free financial counseling and coaching related to money management, credit, housing preparation, employment, and asset building.
Visit resource ↗
TAX FILING
03 DC Free Tax Preparation
Current information about IRS-certified free tax preparation for qualifying DC residents, including eligibility and documents to bring.
Visit resource ↗
TAX HELP
04 Community Tax Aid
Free tax preparation and tax-related education for lower-income individuals and families in the Washington, DC region.
(202) 547-7773 Visit resource ↗
PUBLIC BENEFITS
05 District Direct
Apply for and manage eligible DC public benefits online, including SNAP, TANF, and health coverage programs.
Visit resource ↗
CONSUMER PROTECTION
06 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 Visit resource ↗

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.

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