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Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re selected, we’ll film with your family 3 times, twice in your hometown and once on location for the finale:

  • 4 days in November 2025 
  • 2 days in January 2026 
  • 5 days in March 2026 for the finale 

We’ll work with you as much as we can, but you will need to be available for full filming days. That might mean taking time off work, especially for the trip to the finale and possibly for filming in your hometown.

Do I have to share my full financial picture?

 Yes. In order to give you the best support possible, we need to understand your full financial situation—things like the amount of money you make, expenses, debt, and credit. Everything is kept confidential and only shared with our trusted production team and the support partners working with you.

Where are you filming this season?

  • El Paso, TX
  • Memphis, TN
  • Greater Washington, D.C. and Bethesda, MD
  • National Tour

What if I don’t live in one of the cities listed?

 Yes. If you're selected, you'll travel to Seattle or  Los Angeles for the season finale in March 2026. All travel costs including flights, hotel, transportation, and meals will be covered by the production.

 You’ll need a Real ID to fly. If you don’t have one yet, we’ll help you with the application process.

What kind of support would I get?

 If you're selected, you’ll be matched with one of our three nationally recognized Opportunity Coaches—Jean Chatzky, Patrice Washington, or Louis Barajas. They’ll guide you through your journey with encouragement, expert advice, and a plan that fits your real life.

On top of that, families are eligible to receive up to $20,000 in additional support after completing the journey. This can include help with housing, business coaching, legal aid, childcare, debt relief, or other essentials.

You won’t be in this alone. From day one, you’ll have tools, a team, and a community behind you.

How will I know if I’ve been selected?

We review applications as they come in. If we’d like to move forward, someone from our team will reach out to schedule a Zoom interview. Our casting process wraps in September, and we’ll be in touch with everyone who applies.

Even if you’re not chosen for the show, we’ll still connect you to free tools and resources that can help you make and keep more of your own money.

I applied before. Do I need to fill out another application?

 Yes, please. Even if you’ve applied in the past, fill out a new application so we can understand where you’re at today. Life changes quickly, and we want to make sure the support you receive is based on your current situation.

Will I need to travel to be on the show?

Apply anyway. Your story still matters. When you apply, you're raising your hand for support and helping us understand where the show needs to go next. Even if you're not selected this season, you'll still get access to free tools and resources that can help you take your next step forward. Change doesn’t wait. And neither should you.

Is this real?

Yes! Opportunity Knocks is an award-winning show on PBS seen by over 2 million viewers in the US and Canada. We team up with trusted financial coaches, credit unions, and nonprofits to help real people make real progress. This isn’t just TV. It’s about creating change that lasts, with honesty, respect, and support that actually works.


What is the filming process like?

 No. There’s no cost to apply or be on the show.

Is there a cost to participate?

We’re looking for real people who are dealing with financial stress and ready to take a step forward. If you live in or near one of our filming locations and are open to getting help, sharing your story, and making a change, we’d love to hear from you.

Who can apply?

You need to be at least 18 years old. 

What is the minimum age to apply?

This      for you if:

you're ready to make a change

YOu want things to stay the same

you want real support that lasts

YOU ONLY WANT QUICK FIXES

you're open to sharing your story

It's probably         for you if...

YOU’RE NOT willing to do the work

not

is

It's probably
for you if...

Apply now for season 3

This isn’t just a form. It’s your shot. Real coaching. Up to $20K. Your story on screen. We’re not here to fix you. We’re here to back you.

Spots are limited. Say yes before it’s too late.

Not sure you’re ready? Apply anyway.