Financial Literacy

How PICPA Members Can Get Involved

The AICPA launched the 360 Degrees of Financial Literacy program as a national volunteer effort of the nation's CPAs to help Americans understand and manage their financial responsibilities. The program was developed to teach all people from children to senior citizens the importance of money management.

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.

As a CPA, you have the power and knowledge to educate the public on many financial literacy topics.

Resources Available for Members

• Feed the Pig - Get more information and materials on the AICPA & Ad Council campaign.
• Money & Life: Take Charge and Reach Your Goals - Introduce a cost-effective employee benefit at your company with PICPA's financial literacy employee education program.
• Speakers Bureau - Make a presentation, help distribute educational materials to your community, or be a media spokesperson on a financial literacy topic.
• MoneyTalks - A fun and informative video that highlights the average person’s financial knowledge.
• 360 Degrees Web site - AICPA's online program includes comprehensive resources.
• Jumpstart.org - Access more than 160 free publications, including lesson plans on financial literacy topics.

What PICPA is Doing to Help Consumers

• Ask a CPA - Members provide answers to basic financial and business questions.
• CPA Locator - Consumers can find a local CPA that best meets their needs.
• Free Financial Planning Brochures - PICPA offers free brochures on tax tips, retirement planning, small business, investment fraud and more. Copies are available to members for client distribution.
• Money Management - Weekly advice and guidance on a variety of financial topics.