Talousneuvonta

Talousneuvonta, translated as financial counseling, is a public service in Finland provided by municipal social services to help residents manage their personal finances. The aim is to prevent financial problems from escalating, promote financial literacy, and support people in maintaining housing and meeting basic needs.

The service offers individual guidance on budgeting, debt management, income support, benefits eligibility, housing costs, energy expenses, savings, and consumer rights. It can include help with creating a household budget, reviewing income and expenditure, planning debt repayment, and information about insolvency procedures or debt relief options. Guidance is confidential and usually free of charge.

Access is obtained by contacting the resident’s municipality to request an appointment with the talousneuvonta unit. Some municipalities provide online or telephone guidance. Staff are typically social workers or debt counselors who may coordinate with other municipal services such as social work, housing, and employment services. The service is designed as early support and a step toward stability, not a substitute for specialized legal or financial advice in complex cases.

Relation to other services: Velkaneuvonta (debt counseling) is a closely related service focusing specifically on debt and insolvency matters. Talousneuvonta often serves as a gateway to more specialized assistance and can refer clients to appropriate authorities and nonprofit organizations.