The Financial Resource Guide is designed to support Pratt students in building financial well-being and confidence. It brings together a range of resources that can help you better understand topics like budgeting, credit, saving, loans, and taxes, while also connecting you to counseling, workshops, and other forms of financial guidance.
This guide serves as a starting point—a place to explore reliable tools and programs that can help you make informed decisions and seek support when needed.
Resources
Pratt Institute does not endorse any specific organization or service listed, these resources have been reviewed and selected to connect students with trusted information and opportunities to strengthen their financial stability both in and outside the classroom.
Personal Financial Counseling & Coaching
Resources that offer one-on-one support, either free or low-cost, to help with budgeting, debt management, and credit building.
| Resource | Support Provided | How to Access / Register |
|---|---|---|
| DCWP – Financial Empowerment Centers | Free one-on-one financial counseling on budgeting, credit, debt, and payment plans. Also offers support for housing applications and New Yorkers with disabilities. | Book an appointment online at NYC Financial Empowerment Centers or call 311 and say “financial counseling.” |
| Coin and Compass Financial Coaching | Personalized financial coaching and mentorship programs focused on building healthy money habits and achieving personal goals. | Contact info@coinandcompass.com or call 646-251-2470 to schedule a consultation. |
| Ariva | Free financial counseling and tax preparation in NYC. Counselors help create budgets, reduce debt, and build credit. | Visit ariva.org to find a location or fill out an interest form. |
| NYLAG – New York Legal Assistance Group | Financial empowerment and advocacy services including budgeting, credit repair, taxes, and public benefits. | Schedule an appointment at nylag.org or call 212-613-5000. |
| Community Service Society of New York (CSSNY) | Education Debt Consumer Assistance Program (EDCAP) helps with loan repayment, forgiveness, and default recovery. Also offers community financial coaching programs. | Visit cssny.org or call 888-614-5004 to book a counseling session. |
Financial Literacy & Education
Resources that offer workshops, courses, and digital tools to build financial understanding and long-term money management skills.
| Resource | Support Provided | How to Access / Register |
|---|---|---|
| Brooklyn Public Library – Personal Finance | Workshops and online resources on banking, investing, student loans, and taxes. | Register through the Brooklyn Public Library Events Calendar. |
| New York Public Library – Money Matters | Free classes and one-on-one counseling on budgeting, credit, and debt management. | Visit nypl.org/moneymatters to view upcoming workshops and sign up. |
| Thomas Yoseloff Business Center (NYPL) | In-person and virtual financial coaching, career services, and planning resources. | Schedule a session at the Business Center. |
| Queens Public Library – Financial Literacy | “Money Matters” programs and online banking workshops in English and Spanish. | Check the Queens Public Library Events Calendar for current sessions. |
| FDIC – Money Smart | Self-paced online learning on budgeting, saving, credit, and online safety. | Access free modules at fdic.gov/moneysmart. |
Additional Resources
Managing your money is an essential skill that supports both your financial stability and overall well-being. To explore more ways to strengthen your financial habits, see these resources from the JED Foundation.
Students who are struggling to afford materials for their classes and assignments are encouraged to apply for the Pratt Student Materials Request Fund. This fund helps ensure that all students have access to the tools they need for their creative work. You can review eligibility, logistics, and application details on The Pratt Student Materials Fund Form.
For additional support with benefits and local assistance programs, explore Access NYC, the city resource that helps residents find and apply for financial aid, housing, childcare, and other essential services.
A Note on Safety
Please stay alert to financial scams. Scammers often target students with false threats, promises, or urgent requests for money through gift cards, wire transfers, or payment apps. If something feels suspicious, take a pause—never share personal information or send money before verifying the request.
For current alerts and guidance, visit Pratt Campus Safety’s Security and Safety Alerts page.
If you are ever unsure, contact Pratt Campus Safety at (718) 636-3540 or reach out to a supervisory group at campus-safety@pratt.edu for assistance and verification.
Request details @RWW
If you have any questions or doubts, the Resilience, Wellness and Well-Being Center (RWW) is here to support you. Reach out to learn more or get connected with additional resources.