In 1997, the average American credit card debt was more $2,200. In Wisconsin, 3.5 people out of 1,000 file for bankruptcy each year. Nationwide, family debt has risen steadily since 1989, according to a recent Survey of Consumer Finances. At the same time, Americans are saving less and less each year.

A new University of Wisconsin-Extension financial program, Money 2000 and Beyond, is designed to help households increase their savings and reduce their debt into the next century.

Money 2000 and Beyond can help people at all income levels set their own financial goals. The program includes information on basic budgeting, credit and debt management, investing and planning to reach financial goals. Components of the program include on-going support for participants, quarterly newsletters, home study materials, computer debt analysis, and local workshops and seminars. UW-Extension Family Living Programs, provides research-based information and resources in family financial management, parenting and child development, health care and health policy, and nutrition. For more information or to enroll in Money 2000 and Beyond, contact your county UW-Extension Office or click the link below to request information via email.

*** linda.boelter@ces.uwex.edu

© 1997-1999 Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System, doing business as the Division of Cooperative Extension of the University of Wisconsin-Extension.

If you have questions or comments about the Money 2000 Web site email Linda Boelter at: linda.boelter@ces.uwex.edu