Financial Literacy

Tools & Resources for Financial Stability  

United Way of Snohomish County’s Financial Security pillar ensures that ALICE households and families with young children achieve financial stability.

Our goal is to provide family stability resources based on identified community needs—helping prevent financial hardship and reduce poverty by leveraging UWSC’s ability to convene and collaborate with partner organizations.

Family & Individual Stability Services

We provide resources that help individuals and families meet basic needs, withstand financial shocks, and build toward long-term stability. This includes access to financial literacy programs, tools, and supportive services.

Financial Literacy & Economic Empowerment

We equip individuals and families with the tools and resources needed to achieve long-term financial stability and independence. Services are designed to build financial knowledge, confidence, and resilience through education, coaching, and direct assistance.

Financial Education & Coaching

We offer financial education classes, one-on-one coaching, credit counseling, and debt management support. Participants also receive guidance on accessing second-chance banking options to help establish or rebuild healthy relationships with financial institutions.

Program goals include:

  • Increasing financial literacy and money management skills
  • Improving credit and reducing debt
  • Expanding access to safe and affordable banking services

Tax Assistance — Maximizing Income & Benefits

We provide free, trusted tax preparation through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program and partner navigators via MyFreeTaxesWA.org. We also help households identify and apply for the Washington Working Families Tax Credit, ensuring they receive all eligible refunds.

Ensuring families receive the full benefits they are eligible for:

  • Free tax preparation through VITA and MyFreeTaxesWA
  • Guidance on claiming the Working Families Tax Credit
  • Connecting refunds to savings and debt reduction strategies
  • Support with both online and in-person filing options

Emergency Assistance Program

This program provides immediate, short-term financial relief to families experiencing unexpected hardship. Small grants help meet basic needs while households work toward long-term stability.

Funds may assist with:

  • Utilities
  • Rent or housing-related emergencies
  • Food and essential household needs

Individual Development Account (IDA) & Matched Savings Program

Our IDA and Matched Savings Program helps individuals and families build assets and work toward long-term goals through structured saving and financial coaching. Participants receive matching funds to accelerate progress while developing sustainable saving habits.

Saving with Purpose

Building emergency savings
Participating in matched savings programs
Setting realistic savings milestones
Saving for education or job training
Saving for major purchases (e.g., a vehicle)
Starting or growing a small business

Micro-Business Program

Entrepreneurship is a pathway to economic empowerment. This program supports lower-income and minority entrepreneurs through training, coaching, mentoring, and small grants.

Program goals include:

  • Building wealth through entrepreneurship
  • Reducing barriers for low-income and minority business owners
  • Strengthening local economies through community-based businesses
  • Financial Literacy Partnerships