Late Diagnosed ADHD/Autism - Finances

[dieselmedicine]

Late diagnosed with Autism and ADHD @ 36. Overall I do pretty well, stable job that works for my presentation. Meds are helping with the ADHD. Starting to figure out my struggles and find solutions and accomodations and working with a therapist. My biggest struggle and challenge is managing my finances and getting back on track from the years of not understanding why I struggled. Wondering what resources are out there, thinking beyond just a ADHD coach something more akin to a financial planner, that can really help me get myself back on track. Most of the searches turn up financial planners that serve high networth clients. Looking at not only someone that can help with budgeting and planning, but also working with debt and credit repair. If anything like that exists.

Thanks!

[AlphaGeekBoy]

Hi  dieselmedicine - I too was lat diagnosed at 52.

Managing your Money

I did a lot of research for how best to manage my finances and tried all different types of apps and finally landed on YNAB: ynab.com/referral/?ref=ec72.... I recommended reading through the site and the method before getting started. I found this to be the easiest method for managing and budgeting. It also helps me allocate money toward my savings. The only downside is you have to keep up with it or the task of catching up becomes overwhelming. It was a game-changer for me.

General

I am looking for a Financial Planner in a similar situation where I don't have a huge net worth to work for the bigger agencies. I would start looking for Certified Professional Coaches and or if you local community organizations that offer Consumer Financial Programs.

Here are two resources that may help:

Accredited Financial Counselor®: findanafc.org

Certified Professional Coach: certifiedprofessionalfinanc...

If you go the YNAB route, will be happy to help and share my learning and experiences.

[dieselmedicine in reply to AlphaGeekBoy]

Thanks, I did get some info on a non-profit credit counseling service and sent my info in to get started.

[AlphaGeekBoy in reply to dieselmedicine]

dieselmedicine - That's great. That's probably one of the best places to start. In my experience I find that most of the non-profit credit counseling services are non-judgemental and can really help with consolidating debt, and helping you gain more control over your finances. Good luck, and be proud of yourself for taking action instead of just putting it off.

[dieselmedicine in reply to AlphaGeekBoy]

It's been a long time coming and not knowing where to start. They just got back to me with a plan in place that will be pretty manageable and looks to get my existing issues cleared within 2 years.

[Gettingittogether]

I just saw this article. It has a host of tips for getting financial planning help when you're not rich.

nerdwallet.com/article/inve...