Financial Literacy

Consumer Resources

Many Americans do not know how to manage their money. Recent statistics show that 43 percent of families spend more than they earn each year, and the average household credit card debt is $8,000. In 2005, 2 million Americans filed for bankruptcy - the highest number in history.

Financial literacy is important when managing your personal and business finances. This knowledge will help you in your current situation and when planning for the future.

PICPA Can Help

• Ask a CPA - Submit a question about a basic financial issue and get an answer from a CPA.
• Free CPA Speaker - available for nonprofit, business and professional organizations, and community-based associations
  
• Free Financial Planning Brochures - Get free brochures on tax tips, retirement planning, small business, investment fraud and more.
• Money Management Columns - Weekly advice and guidance on a variety of financial and business topics.Financial Literacy Throughout Your Life

Managing your wealth is a lifelong journey. The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, with support from the PICPA, presents
360 Degrees of Financial Literacy. This Web site provides consumers with information to help them make financial decisions at every stage of their lives. PICPA also provides the following life stage resources:

Children

• Hey Kids! Money Doesn't Grow on Trees
• Saving for College: Course 101
  

Marriage

• Couples Compatibility Quiz
  

Entrepreneur

• Do You Have What it Takes to Make the Entrepreneurial Leap?
  

Retirement & Estate Planning

• Making the Most of Your Retirement Plan
  

Materials for the Classroom

Teachers can get information to share with their class. Lesson plans, activities, DVDs, and other resources are available in the Financial Literacy section of PICPA's student and educator Web site, CPAzone.org. Free CPA speakers are also available for classroom presentations and school assemblies.

Other Valuable Links and Information

• FeedthePig.org - Official site of Ad Council campaign. Meet Benjamin Bankes and get savings tips.
• Jumpstart.org - Access more than 160 free publications, including lesson plans on financial literacy topics.
  
• 360 Degrees of Financial Literacy - The AICPA's Web site provides consumers with information to help them make financial decisions at every stage of their lives.
  
• Youcandealwithit.com - Tells the real story on money, student loans, and life.
  
• Moneysbestfriend.com - Personal finance resources from the Pa. Department of Financial Education
• AnnualCreditReport.com - Get a free copy of your credit report

Media Inquiries

A CPA can help you present and explain a variety of financial and business topics to your audience. Contact the PICPA to set up an interview. E-mail mediaresources@picpa.org or call (888) 272-2001.