FRANKFORT, KY – October 4, 2011 – (RealEstateRama) — The Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) urges consumers to take time during Financial Planning Week, Oct. 3-9, 2011, to re-evaluate personal goals and the financial paths to achieve them.
And, whether consumers are considering possible changes to their investment portfolio or refinancing a mortgage loan, DFI can help check out the background and registration of a stockbroker, investment adviser or mortgage lender.
“DFI is committed to providing financial education to encourage individuals to invest wisely, borrow responsibly and make good financial decisions,” said DFI Commissioner Charles Vice. “Checking out a lender or adviser is a simple step that can help protect individuals from fraud and to increase their peace of mind.”
There are no guarantees in investing, and it is important to research investments and make sure there is an understanding of the terms and the products. It also is important to make sure the investment and the person selling it are licensed or registered in Kentucky. To check, call DFI’s Securities Division at 800-223-2579.
Similarly, consumers can check out the background and registration information on mortgage lenders using NMLS Consumer Access. The national database, which is part of the Nationwide Mortgage Licensing System (NMLS), is a searchable website – www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org – that allows the public to view information about mortgage companies and individuals. DFI was one of the first seven state regulators to join the NMLS in 2008. The NMLS Consumer Access includes information on mortgage lenders in all 50 states, District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands, as well as mortgage lenders who work at banks and credit unions.
Financial Planning Week is sponsored by the Financial Planning Association. For more information, visit www.fpanet.org.
DFI offers free information on investing, credit, banking and avoiding fraud at http://kfi.ky.gov in the “Public” section.
DFI is an agency in the Public Protection Cabinet. It supervises the financial services industry by examining, chartering, licensing and registering various financial institutions, securities firms and professionals operating in Kentucky. DFI’s mission is to serve Kentucky residents and protect their financial interests by maintaining a stable financial industry, continuing effective and efficient regulatory oversight, promoting consumer confidence and encouraging economic opportunities.
Contact:
Kelly May, Public Information Officer
502-573-3390 x252
800-223-2579 x252
kelly.may (at) ky (dot) gov
