Questions & answers
Frequently Asked Questions
What is PennyGuide?
PennyGuide is an independent consumer education website with plain-English guides and free planning tools for everyday money topics — saving on bills, budgeting, understanding credit, building savings and learning how public assistance programs work.
Is PennyGuide a bank, lender or government agency?
No. PennyGuide does not lend money, offer credit, process applications, decide eligibility or run any program. We explain how things work and link to the official source.
Do I have to sign up to use the guides or tools?
No. Every guide and tool is free to use without an account, and subscribing to text updates is never required.
Are my calculator numbers saved or sent anywhere?
No. The calculators run entirely in your browser. The Bill Savings Checklist can save to your own browser’s local storage on your device so you can come back to it; nothing is sent to us.
What text messages can I sign up for?
There are two separate, optional programs. Informational/account texts include sign-up confirmations, preference changes and notifications about guides you request. Marketing texts include seasonal money tips, featured articles and new free PennyGuide tools. You can choose either, both or neither.
How often will I get texts, and do they cost anything?
Message frequency varies. PennyGuide doesn’t charge for texts, but message and data rates may apply from your carrier.
How do I stop text messages?
Reply STOP to any PennyGuide text. You’ll get one confirmation and no more messages. Reply HELP for help, or email us.
Will you share my phone number?
No. We don’t sell or share your mobile number or opt-in data with third parties or affiliates for marketing. See our Privacy Policy for details.
Can you help me apply for SNAP, LIHEAP or another program?
We can’t apply on your behalf or tell you whether you qualify, but our Financial Resources guides explain how programs generally work and link to the official agency where you can apply. Dialing 211 can also connect you with local help.
How do you choose what to write about?
We focus on everyday questions readers face — bills, budgets, credit, savings and community resources — and check details about public programs against official sources.
Still have a question? Contact us, read the SMS Terms, or manage text updates.