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According to most definitions, the term financial literacy refers to understanding how to effectively manage household finances, handle debt, create a budget, and build savings.

Working toward financial literacy is the foundation of your relationship with money and can set you up for a lifetime of financial health and wellness. Listed below are some financial resources to enhance financial literacy.

• Financial Terms Glossary: The basics of financial literacy start with some definitions. Understanding terms like interest rates, compound interest, balloon payments, secured vs. unsecured debt and other concepts help you get a working knowledge of personal finances, from understanding the steps to take to finance a car to managing consumer credit cards.
• Financial Calculators: A healthy financial future begins with an understanding of your current situation. Online financial calculators help you run the numbers and answer questions related to financing your home or the impact of interest on any outstanding credit card debt.
• Financial Wellness Resources: Financial literacy is about having good information at your fingertips. Much of that education is available online, but it’s important to tap into trusted resources. Look for a library of resources, including worksheets and guides about managing finances, setting a simple spending plan or prioritizing expenses.
• On-Demand Webinars: For convenience and ease-of-use, on-demand educational webinars showcasing personal finance topics are handy. From budgeting, managing student loans, building credit, as well as other topics, free access to the educational webinars gets you well on your way to financial literacy.
• Credit Report Review: Studies show 1 in 3 Americans never check their credit report yet knowing credit history is key to financial literacy. Regularly monitoring your credit can alert you to errors, protect you from fraud, and provide important information to strengthen your credit score. 

Key to Success 

Financial literacy is the key to success when it comes to managing your money. So where can you find the resources mentioned above? GreenPath Financial Wellness, a national nonprofit, is a good source, and they also provide free one-on-one financial guidance with certified counselors.