Chapter 1

The Key to Getting Ahead

• A Budget Helps You Get What You Want
• Wants and Needs
• Goals are the Foundation of Any Financial Plan
• Simple Steps to Setting Your Goals

Chapter 2

Developing a Budget to Get What You Want

• Calculating Gross and Net Income
• Fixed, Flexible, and Variable Expenses
• Your Budget Form
• Savings and the Time Value of Money

Chapter 3

Financial Tools to Help You

• Cash, Money Orders, Checks, and Debit Cards
• Comparison Shopping and Coupon Clipping
• Maintaining Accurate Financial Records

Chapter 4

Credit Can Enhance Your Life

• Types of Credit Available to You
• Secured and Unsecured Loans
• The Cost of Credit
• What You Need to Know About Credit Cards

Chapter 5

Your Credit Score—A Number to Know

• Information on Your Credit Report
• Getting a Copy of Your Credit Report
• Disputing an Error on Your Credit Report
• How Your Credit Score Affects You

Chapter 6

What You Need to Know About Contracts

• Signing a Lease
• Rental Leases, Utilities, Cell Phones, and Furniture
• Choosing the Right Insurance

Chapter 7

Consumer Laws to Protect You

• Resources for Help
• Writing a Complaint
• Seven Laws to Protect You

Chapter 8

What to Do When Things Go Wrong

• Warning Signs of Financial Trouble
• Taking Action to Correct the Situation
• Choosing and Working with a Credit Counselor