MEWUJUDKAN RUMAH TANGGA MANDIRI FINANSIAL BEBAS JERATAN PINJAMAN ILEGAL MELALUI PENYULUHAN " CERDAS MENGELOLA KEUANGAN KELUARGA : STRATEGI MENGHINDARI RENTENIR DAN MEMANFAATKAN KUR UNTUK USAHA MIKRO PADA IBU-IBU RUMAH TANGGA KELURAHAN PALOPAT MARIA, PADAN

Abstract

This community service activity aims to improve financial literacy among housewives in Palopat Maria Village, Padangsidimpuan Hutaimbaru, so that they can manage household finances wisely, avoid illegal loans or moneylenders, and utilize the People’s Business Credit (KUR) as an alternative source of financing for micro-enterprises. The main problems faced by the community partners include low understanding of family financial planning, limited knowledge of the risks of high-interest loans, and insufficient information regarding access to formal financing for micro-businesses. The implementation method involved participatory counseling, group discussion, simple financial record simulations, and practical assistance in household financial management and KUR application procedures. The results showed an increase in participants’ understanding of the importance of household financial management, the dangers of illegal loans, and the opportunities offered by KUR for small business development. The activity also encouraged participants to become more financially independent and to manage family income more productively. Therefore, this community service program is expected to contribute to the realization of financially independent households that are prosperous and free from the traps of illegal lending.