(UNDATED) If you’re trying to make smarter decisions with your money, state officials say April is a good time to start.
April is National Financial Literacy Month, and Wisconsin’s Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection is encouraging people to take part in a statewide challenge focused on building everyday financial skills.
Consumer Protection Administrator Michelle Reinen tells 620 WTMJ the goal is to help people better understand their rights, avoid scams and feel more confident managing their finances.
One way to get started is with the agency’s Consumer Guide, a free, 40-plus-page booklet that breaks down common financial issues and warning signs of fraud. It’s available online or by request through the state’s consumer hotline.
The agency is also hosting educational presentations across Wisconsin, giving people a chance to learn directly from experts about topics like contracts, identity theft and online security.
For those who prefer to learn at home, DATCP offers more than 100 online consumer resources, along with a series of short videos called “Consumer Protection 101.” The videos cover everything from rental agreements to data privacy and are designed to be quick, easy to understand and practical for everyday life.
Reinen says anyone with questions or concerns about a consumer issue can call the state’s Consumer Protection Hotline for help at 800-422-7128.
