Q: How long will the financial consulting process take and how many sessions can I have?
A: The number of sessions is determined during the initial financial consultation process. The number of sessions needed is generally between three and seven, throughout a one-to-three month period of time. Your individual needs and those of your family members, if applicable, will influence the amount of time you may need with a financial consultant.
Q: What is gained by talking to a financial consultant?
A: The consultant can help you assess the extent of the financial problem.
- You have the chance to discuss the events leading up to the application and its meaning to you.
- Resources (from both within and outside Abbott) can be identified and developed.
- Alternative ways of coping may be identified that may better fit the present situation.
- Follow-up consulting sessions to help review and support your efforts to cope in new ways.
Q: Can my spouse receive financial consulting too?
A: Yes. In fact, we strongly encourage your spouse/partner's participation in the financial consultation process. Our experience shows that one person is rarely ever solely responsible for a particular financial situation. Therefore, it is important that spouses/partners participate in the review and development of the financial plan.
Q: I’m having financial troubles, but I’m worried about talking to someone at the Foundation. How do I know that someone at work won’t find out?
A: Information provided to the Foundation is kept confidential except when required by law, or when The Clara Abbott Foundation suspects or determines that fraud, deceit or concealment have occurred. Otherwise, Foundation cases are not shared with your manager and they are not part of Abbott records or personnel files.
Q: How do I register for a financial education class?
A: In Lake County, registration for financial education classes is coordinated through Abbott Training Services. You'll need access to the Abbott Wide Web to register for a class. For enrollment questions or more information, call (847) 937-2233.