Keeping on Top of Finances

Title of Financial Literacy MOnth, coins and calculator and pen with a notepad. simple image of a graduate with a mortar board — National Financial Literacy Month

April is National Financial Literacy Month, whose focus is to enhance the financial wellness of Americans by improving their financial literacy.

According to the results of a Harris Poll, About one third of the general population say that “just getting by financially” describes them and a little more than a quarter are spending a lot or a little more than previously, while 22% are spending a lot or a little less than before.

How about tracking your budget and spending? Almost 45% follow a budget and track spending; about the same amount do use a budget but don't consistently track spending. A report by MillennialMoney.com found that 60% of households report living paycheck to paycheck. The percentage of US adults with poor financial literacy increased from 20% in 2017 to 25% in 2023, according to Moneyzine.com.

Not surprisingly, money management experts have found that the majority of consumers face financial challenges that significantly affect daily life.

Vermonters can turn to Vermont 211 to find programs that provide money management and credit counseling as well as debt recovery resources. Visit online Community Resource Directory and try these search terms:

Financial LIteracy Training

Personal Financial Counseling

Credit Counseling

Mortgage Delinquency and Deficit Counseling

Debt Consolidation Services