05 Aug Financial Planning Help for Cancer Patients and Caregivers
August 5, 2025 ~ A cancer diagnosis can bring a flood of information, emotions, and uncertainties—not just about health, but about finances too. Whether it's affording treatment, managing reduced income, or navigating insurance, financial stress can quickly take a toll.
At Triage Cancer, we understand that navigating the financial side of a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. That is why we have developed a special partnership with volunteer Certified Financial Planners® (CFPs) to offer a line of support to individuals impacted by cancer and other medical conditions.
This program is generously supported by the Foundation for Financial Planning, whose mission is to expand access to pro bono financial planning for people in need.
What Is Triage Cancer’s Volunteer Financial Planner Program?
Through this program, we match individuals coping with cancer, and their caregivers, with qualified, volunteer financial planners who can help them make informed decisions about their finances. Many of our volunteers have their own connection to cancer or serious illness and are passionate about giving back.
Our certified financial planner volunteers can assist with:
- Budgeting on a limited or reduced income
- Retirement planning after a cancer diagnosis
- The financial impacts of employment transitions or leaving work
- Managing debt or building an emergency savings fund
A Complement to our Legal & Financial Navigation Program
Triage Cancer’s Volunteer Financial Planner Program works together with our Legal & Financial Navigation Program. While our team of attorneys can address questions about legal rights, programs, and benefits routed in the law, sometimes additional information about financial planning is needed.
When appropriate, we refer callers to our network of pro bono financial planners, who generously volunteer their time and expertise.
What to Expect from the Program
Participants typically meet with their financial planner at least twice:
- Initial Session – Gather background, financial goals, and assess current challenges.
- Follow-Up – Review a mini-plan or address specific financial questions.
However, meetings can be customized based on the volunteer’s advising style and the client’s needs.
Real Impact, Real Stories
In just a few months, this program has already made a meaningful difference in the lives of participants:
- 28 individuals have been connected with a certified financial planner
- 90% said they received clear, helpful guidance with actionable next steps
- 100% reported reduced stress and anxiety about their financial situation
- 80% said they would not have had access to a financial planner without Triage Cancer
“Reaching out to Triage Cancer and connecting with a financial planner can be life-changing—like having a supportive guide through complicated financial decisions.”
“They offer kind, generous people who gift their time to help those facing financial stress due to a cancer diagnosis.”
Get Involved or Get Help
If you’re a financial planner looking to give back, or someone navigating the financial impact of cancer or another serious medical condition, we invite you to learn more about this powerful, people-centered program. Together, we can help individuals find their best path forward.
To learn more about volunteering with Triage Cancer as a financial planner, fill out this form.
To reach out to Triage Cancer’s Legal & Financial Navigation Program, fill out the intake form online.
Final Thoughts
When dealing with cancer, financial planning should never be an added burden. Thanks to the generosity of volunteer financial planners, the Foundation for Financial Planning, and our coordinated efforts, individuals can gain clarity, confidence, and control over their financial future.
Together, we can make a difference—one financial plan at a time.
About Triage Cancer
Triage Cancer is a national, nonprofit providing free education to people diagnosed with cancer, caregivers, and health care professionals on cancer-related legal and practical issues. Through events, materials, and resources, Triage Cancer is dedicated to helping people move beyond diagnosis.
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