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As we approach the end of 2024 and the start of a new year, now is an excellent opportunity to take charge of your finances. We sat down with Michael Martino, the Head of Wells Fargo's Banking Inclusion Initiative (BII) , to learn how you can benefit from the greater accessibility of low-cost banking and financial education and provide actionable steps to help you improve your financial health. The FDIC just released their biennial report on unbanked and underbanked households. The biggest takeaway from the findings tells us that while the unbanked rate in the country has dropped to a record low, the report shows that there are still significant racial disparities in banking access for diverse households. Black, Hispanic, and American Indian/Alaska Native households still encounter challenges such as meeting minimum balance requirements and lacking trust in financial institutions. Wells Fargo supports unbanked and underbanked families through their Banking Inclusion Initiative, which offers valuable services and resources to assist unbanked and underbanked households on their own financial education journeys with hopes of setting them up for financial success. One key feature is personalized, 1:1 financial counseling, available at no cost. Through their collaboration with Operation HOPE, HOPE Inside helps individuals establish a budget and set realistic goals, setting the stage for financial success. So, how do we improve our financial health going into the new year? First, take advantage of free 1:1 financial coaching. Whether you're a Wells Fargo customer or not, one-on-one financial guidance sessions can help you grasp your budget better and set realistic goals for 2025, paving the way toward financial freedom. Next, sign up for low-cost banking services at your local bank- such as Wells Fargo's Clear Access bank account. Lastly, know your credit score: Check your credit score before the year wraps up to gain insight into your current credit standing. Regularly checking your credit score is essential for understanding your financial position and making informed decisions. For more information, visit your local Wells Fargo branch or visit wellsfargo.com .