Tony’s Story

Tony came to Sound Outreach wondering if bankruptcy was his only option. He was deep in credit card debt and was stressed about working out a plan for his finances. Working with his Financial Counselor, Levi Merchant, they discussed options and talked through the situation. Tony did his own research and became more confident in finding solutions. While waiting on Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) eligibility they collaborated on many scenarios to come up with possibilities depending on his eligibility.

After discovering that he would not only be receiving SSDI benefits but backpay from those benefits he sprang into action based on the plan he created. Tony made sure to put himself in a secure and sustainable financial position by establishing an Emergency Fund, paying off ALL his credit card debt, and paying for a modest vehicle in cash. His credit score increased by +73 points in response to his actions. He now has an affordable apartment and is self-sustainable. He has set himself up for the future and has room in his budget for fun money!