Maine’s Bureau of Consumer Credit protection offers free publications online:
Family Development Account Coalition – Matched Savings Program — FDAs or IDAs
The FDA Program enables low-income families to establish savings accounts that will be matched when withdrawn to purchase an approved asset. For a program description: http://womenworkandcommunity.org/?page_id=101
The Maine Centers for Women, Work and Community (WWC) and Midcoast Maine Community Action are the two agencies offering the program in the Sagadahoc/Lincoln County area.
The Maine Centers for Women, Work and Community offer Family Development Accounts (FDA’s), or “matched savings accounts”. The learn more about FDA’s and whether you are eligible, go to http://womenworkandcommunity.org/?page_id=80.
Midcoast Maine Community Action actively promotes economic and community development of the businesses and communities in the mid-coast area where individuals and families reside. To learn more about their FDA program: http://www.midcoastmainecommunityaction.org/
HoMEworks educators and HUD approved Housing Counseling agencies
The HoMEworks goal is to provide a standardized, comprehensive homeownership education program to be delivered by a network of industry professionals in neutral environments throughout Maine. Buyers who have taken the home buying classes are more confident when asking questions and making decisions about homeownership and loan products. Education gives buyers the tools they need to avoid predatory lending and possible foreclosure.
Click on the following links for more HoMEworks information.
Maine Housing provides up to $5,000 toward your first home and $500 for a two-part energy audit.
Visit our CA$H Greater Portland Web site, www.cashgp.org to get connected to local programs and services that can help you make the most of your money. From financial education resources, to free workshops, these tools will help you increase your income and build your savings.
Volunteers with the The Midcoast Maine Creating Assets, Savings, and Hope (CA$H) coalition are offering free assistance with the Maine Residents Property Tax and Rent Refund Application, known as the “Circuit Breaker” program through October of this year and then again during the 2011 tax season.
The Midcoast Maine Creating Assets, Savings, and Hope (CA$H) coalition has wrapped up another record-breaking tax season, helping 330 taxpayers file federal and state income taxes that resulted in more than $600,000 worth of refunds going back to the local economy.
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