National Financial Awareness Day: A Guide to Financial Literacy

Every year on August 14, we celebrate National Financial Awareness Day, dedicated to promoting financial literacy and encouraging smart money management practices across America.

Quick Facts

When is it: August 14
Tagged as: Financial Education Day
What’s the hashtag: #FinancialAwarenessDay
When was it founded: 2017
Who founded it: U.S. Financial Literacy and Education Commission

History

The day was established to address growing concerns about financial literacy in America. The U.S. Financial Literacy and Education Commission created this observance to help Americans better understand their finances and make informed decisions about their money.

Timeline

  • 1800s: Birth of modern budgeting concepts
  • 1933: Creation of Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC)
  • 1951: Development of financial planning industry
  • 1974: Introduction of Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs)
  • 1996: Creation of Roth IRA
  • 2017: Establishment of National Financial Awareness Day

Dates by Next Year

YearDateDay
2025Aug 14Thursday
2026Aug 14Friday
2027Aug 14Saturday
2028Aug 14Monday
2029Aug 14Tuesday

How It’s Observed

People celebrate by reviewing their finances, creating budgets, attending financial workshops, and learning about investment strategies. Many financial institutions offer special programs and educational resources on this day.

Fun Facts About Financial Awareness

  • Only 42% of Americans have more than $1,000 in their savings account
  • Financial literacy education is now mandatory in many U.S. schools
  • The concept of budgeting as we know it today emerged during the Industrial Revolution

Quiz

  1. When was National Financial Awareness Day established?
  2. What percentage of Americans have over $1,000 in savings?
  3. Who established this awareness day?

(Answers: 2017; 42%; U.S. Financial Literacy and Education Commission)

FAQs

Q: Why is financial awareness important?
A: It helps people make informed decisions about money management and secure their financial future.

Q: How can I participate?
A: Review your budget, start an emergency fund, or consult with a financial advisor.

Importance of Financial Awareness Day

This day serves as a crucial reminder to take control of our financial health, plan for the future, and develop better money management habits. It emphasizes the need for continuous financial education and smart planning.

Related Observances

  • Credit Education Month (March)
  • Financial Literacy Month (April)
  • World Savings Day (October 31)
  • Tax Day (April 15)
  • World Investment Week (October)