Being "financially literate" means you have the knowledge, skills and habits to successfully manage your money. A growing body of research shows a wide range of benefits to individuals, families and communities where its citizens are actively practicing sound money management skills. Such skills include using a budget or plan for monthly spending; regularly saving some of today's money for tomorrow's needs; managing your use of credit to avoid over-extending yourself; and investing funds to allow your money to grow. 

The pages in our financial literacy section organize resources for you so that you can quickly get to information you can use. The links to these pages are located on the righthand side of this page. We hope these pages help you continue to move forward toward a more financially secure future.

What's New in Financial Literacy?

South Burlington High School Wins 2012 VT Reserve Cup Challenge!

In a tough seven team field, South Burlington High School won the academic challenge. Student teams were tested on their knowledge of personal finance and economics.

Schools Now Signing Up for a Money Smart Child Parent Workshop for Next Year

Through a three-way partnership between the State Treasurer's Office, Vermont Jump$tart Coalition, and People's United Bank, the groundwork has been laid to reach more than 11,000 families with resources parents can use to instruct their children in personal finance. The program was announced September 15, 2011. During this past school term, 57 elementary, middle school and high schools located throughout the state distributed the booklet, "How to Raise a Money Smart Child--A Parent's Guide" to parents. View the booklet online.

A free parent workshop also was offered in five locations during the current school term. Work is now underway to schedule workshops for the 2012-2013 school term. The 90-minute workshop examines what personal finance topics parents should cover with their children, explores "teachable moments" parents can use to communicate financial information, and introduces parents to hands-on activities to do with their kids in the areas of saving, the family budget, allowances, and credit cards. Interested schools should contact the Treasurer's Office by calling (802) 828-3706 to discuss options for their communities. 

April 12 State House Ceremony Honored Student Achievement

Students, parents and school officials from around the state joined State Treasurer Beth Pearce and Lt. Governor Phil Scott in a State House ceremony recognizing April as Financial Literacy for Youth Month. Student winners in two statewide financial literacy programs were recognized. Ten students were congratulated on each winning a $250 college savings account through the Reading is an Investment program. Students winners in the 2012 Be Money Wi$e Financial Literacy Poster Competition also received their awards. 

Financial Literacy Trust Fund

We recognize these trust fund supporters for their partnership with the Treasurer's Office in promoting financial literacy. 

Consumer Tips

From avoiding unexpected bank account costs to financial planning tips for young adults--check out the FDIC (Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation) consumer education page.