Independence requires having control over your finances—from shopping to paying your bills to balancing your checkbook. You may think vision loss is an obstacle, but this video will show you a few basic skills to help you maintain financial health.



Transcript of Video

NARRATOR 1: Two men at a desk paying bills.

NARRATOR 2: Being able to manage one’s own finances is a large part of maintaining independence.

MAN #1: Well, here’s this bill, let’s pay it.

MAN #2: All right.

NARRATOR 2: Some people prefer to take care of bills as a team with a family member like this father and son-in-law. But you can also do the bills yourself. Most banks will provide large-print and raised-line checks and monthly statements in large print or Braille. Using a writing guide or signature guide like this one can be helpful on checks of any size to keep you on the right line. Large-button and talking calculators are another option.

NARRATOR 1: A man at an ATM.

NARRATOR 2: Some banks now offer talking ATMs, making quick banking an option again.

TALKING ATM: The envelope dispenser is located at 4:00 and approximately 20 inches from the keypad.

NARRATOR 2: And with online banking, many transactions are conveniently just a few clicks away, reducing the need to visit a bank in person. All you need is your computer. When it comes to handling your money, identifying by touch is also easy once you come up with a system of folding bills to help you quickly tell them apart.

WOMAN: The one-dollar bill is flat. A five-dollar bill, we fold in half.

NARRATOR 2: You should find a wallet that helps you keep your money organized. Some prefer four compartments, but choose the one that works best for you.