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Financial Counseling in Vermont & New Hampshire

Members have free access to on-staff Enhanced Financial Counseling — local people who know this region and understand the financial pressures our communities face.

Unlike financial advisors, who typically focus on investment management and wealth-building strategies, our Financial Counselors provide personalized, confidential financial education and coaching to members.

Free for all 802CU members
Confidential and judgement-free
Education through the Association of Vermont Credit Unions
Available at multiple branch locations

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100% FREE FOR 802CU MEMBERS

Overview

Honest Financial Guidance From Financial Counselors

As a member of 802 Credit Union, you have access to on-staff counselors.

Whether someone is preparing to buy a home, working to improve their credit, building an emergency fund, reducing debt, creating a budget, or working toward savings goals, our team is equipped to provide practical support, tools, and resources tailored to their individual situation.

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What We Help With

From Everyday Budgeting to Big Financial Goals

Our financial counselors work with members at every stage of life, from first-time budgeters, families managing debt, people preparing to buy a home, and everyone in between.

Need help with something else? Give us a call at 800-728-5871 and we can help point you in the right direction.

Achieve Your Goals

Budgeting & Cash Flow

A budget only works if it fits your real life. Your counselor will help you build one that reflects your income, your expenses, and the goals you’re actually working toward.

Debt Reduction

Whether it’s credit cards, student loans, or personal debt, your counselor will help you understand what you owe, how to prioritize it, and create a payoff plan that makes sense for your situation.

Home Buying Preparation

Thinking about buying a home? Your counselor can help you understand what lenders look for, how to strengthen your credit, and how much to have saved before you apply.

Savings Goals

A new vehicle, a child’s education, a family trip — your counselor can help you map out a savings strategy with clear milestones so your goals feel achievable, not out of reach.

Emergency Fund Building

Unexpected expenses happen to everyone. Your counselor will help you figure out a realistic savings target and a straightforward plan on how to get there.

Credit Building

Your credit score affects more than you might think. Your counselor will walk you through how credit works, how to read your report, and what steps to take to build or repair your history over time.

Member-Focused. Locally Rooted.

Building a Financially Healthy Community

Become a member to access our all of our services, including our financial counseling program.

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Our Team

Meet Our Financial Counselors

Amy Carlson

Branch Manager I, South Burlington Branch

Leandra Lewellyn

Branch Manager II, White River Junction Branch

Shelia Wood

Lending Relationship Manager, White River Junction

Abby Graves

Collections Specialist, Brattleboro Operations Building

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Know the Difference

Financial Counselor vs. Financial Advisor — What’s the Difference?

People often use these terms interchangeably, but they serve very different purposes. Here’s a quick breakdown so you know exactly what to expect from our program.

FEATURES	FINANCIAL COUNSELORS	FINANCIAL ADVISORS
Cost	Free	Fee-based or Commission
Focus Areas	Budgeting, Savings, Debt, Credit	Investments, Retirement Portfolios
Product Sales	None, No Products Sold	May Sell Financial Products
Best For	Everyday Financial Challenges & Goals	High-net-worth Investment Planning
Minimum Wealth Required	None, All Members Welcome	Often Requires Investable Assets
Judgement-free	Always	Varies

Frequently Asked Questions

Have Questions? Let Us Help!

Do I have to be in financial trouble to use this service?

Not at all! Our certified financial counselors work with members at every point on the financial spectrum. Some members come to us carrying debt or facing a financial setback, and this service is absolutely here for that. However, plenty of members use financial counseling simply because they want to feel more confident about money. Whether it’s setting up a budget that actually sticks or learning how to start saving for a home, there are many valid reasons to reach out.
Do I need to be a member to receive financial counseling?

Yes, financial counseling is a free benefit available exclusively to 802 Credit Union members. The good news is that becoming a member is a quick and straightforward process. Once you’re a member, you’re an owner of this credit union, and that means full access to everything we offer, including one-on-one time with a certified financial counselor at no cost.
Is financial counseling confidential? Who will see my information?

What you share with your counselor stays with your counselor. Financial counseling sessions are completely private. We’re not here to judge, and your information is not shared with other departments or used to influence any decisions about your accounts. If you’ve been hesitant to ask for help because you’re worried about who might see your situation, set that aside. This is a safe conversation.

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From budgeting tools to fraud protection, we’re here to help you feel confident and in control of your finances.

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More Than a Member

As a member-owner, you’re doing more than banking. You’re building a better financial future with a credit union that puts you first.

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Testimonials

Making a Difference

Real stories about members who’ve worked with our financial counselors.

We have been working with a couple over time to strengthen their budget, build savings, and get their finances in a place where they feel confident about what comes next. Now, they are ready to explore homeownership. Together with our lending team, we are helping them understand what they may qualify for and mapping out a clear path forward. It is a great example of how guidance, teamwork, and consistency can turn a goal into something real.

The 802CU Financial Counseling Team

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Ready to Talk to a Financial Counselor?

Fill out the form and a member of our team will be in touch to connect you with the right financial counselor for your needs.

Prefer to stop by in person? Give us a call at 800-728-5871 to schedule your visit.