Financial Education That Drives Real Results.
Extra Credit Financial Solutions (ECFS) is a financial education organization dedicated to helping individuals, families, and communities build clarity, confidence, and long-term financial stability.
Through structured programs and proprietary tools like The Money Order Calculator Suite, ECFS transforms complex financial concepts into clear, actionable insights.
Our approach is designed to meet people where they are — making financial literacy accessible, relatable, and results-driven.
Allen C. Cheaves
Allen C. Cheaves is a financial educator, speaker, and the Founder of Extra Credit Financial Solutions, LLC (ECFS), an organization dedicated to improving financial literacy and empowering individuals to make informed financial decisions.
Since founding ECFS in 2011, Allen has led the development and delivery of financial education programs that have educated nearly 100,000 individuals across schools, universities, and community organizations in person and online. His work focuses on simplifying complex financial concepts and translating them into practical, real-world strategies that help people build stronger money habits and long-term financial stability.
Allen’s impact extends beyond the classroom. From 2018 to 2024, he served as a Mayor-appointed Commissioner on the DC Financial Literacy Council, contributing to citywide initiatives aimed at improving financial education and access. He has also spoken on national and international platforms, including the United Nations, where he engaged with emerging global leaders on the importance of financial literacy.
Recognized for his leadership and contributions to financial education, Allen and ECFS have been featured in outlets such as USA Today and have earned the Certified Business Enterprise (CBE) designation.
Through his work, Allen remains committed to one core belief: financial literacy is not just about money — it’s about creating opportunity, building confidence, and improving lives.
Our Impact
We have educated nearly 100,000 individuals across schools, organizations, and communities, delivering measurable results that extend beyond the classroom.
Our programs have led to an average 59% increase in financial knowledge, while also improving real-world financial behaviors such as budgeting, saving, and credit management.
By combining structured education with practical tools like The Money Order Calculator Suite, ECFS continues to create meaningful, lasting change—helping individuals move from financial uncertainty to clarity, confidence, and control.
I’ve Never Seen Our Students so Engaged
“In reading the testimonials from our students, I am proud of the results that were achieved. Students were actively involved in the learning activities and receptive to the information as it was presented to them. This is attributable to the dedication and creativity you provided while engaging students and finding solutions to unforeseen technical obstacles that emerged along the way.”
— PRINCIPAL ANITA M. BERGER, BENJAMIN BANNEKER ACADEMIC HIGH SCHOOL
University of District of Columbia Community College (UDCCC)
“(ECFS) presented complex subjects in a skillful manner that fostered deep learning for our students. Our students were clearly engaged, and your message was well-received. The presentation was outstanding! They were impressed by your advice and honesty on how you overcame past challenges on the road to financial success.”
— PROFESSOR ALBERT PEARSALL, III, UNIVERSITY OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA COMMUNITY COLLEGE
1M1B Foundation
“Mr. Cheaves is an amazing educator that delivers important messages about money that connect with youth. Extra Credit Financial Solutions is more than financial literacy programming and our students were satisfied and empowered to build positive finance relationships. We can’t wait to bring ECFS back to impact Harlem and NYC again. Thank you for all you do!”
— PROFESSOR KAREEM HERTZOG, METROPOLITAN COLLEGE OF NEW YORK
Make School
“ECFS was extremely prepared and spent considerable time with me before the actual presentation to do a dry run to ensure the presentations’ information was in line with pre-discussed expectations. Additionally, ECFS also employed a variety of teaching techniques (i.e., lecture, polls, open-end questions, etc.) to draw our students in.”
— CARMEN YE, DIRECTOR OF PEOPLE, CULTURE, AND JUSTICE EQUITY, MAKE SCHOOL
Student Feedback
ECFS places importance on feedback as it helps instructors develop new strategies and techniques to better engage students and create a more effective learning environment. Additionally, this feedback can provide valuable insight into the overall effectiveness of the coursework and instruction.
NAICS
611430 Personal Finance and Professional Development Continuing Education Services, Onsite or Online
UNSPSC
60105401 Personal Finance or Money Management Education and Instructional Materials
86111503 Certificated Distance Learning Services
Nondiscriminatory education policy:
Extra Credit Financial Solutions LLC (ECFS) does not discriminate in administration of our educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship programs, or other ECFS-administered programs. ECFS programs, facilities, or activities made available to students without regard to race, sex, age, color, creed, national / ethnic origin, marital status, familial status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, disability, or other legally protected status.
Join Our Team
ECFS is growing and we need You! We are recruiting Financial Literacy Instructors, Account Executives, and other professionals for the 2023 season.