The Effects of Financial Literacy of Low-Income Females on Their Long-Term Financial Behaviors

Much of modern education has focused on developing individuals’ skills to be productive parts of society. The developed skills can become enablers of financial stability, independence and economic security. Yet, on a relative basis, considerably less effort is expended on building the financial skills for individuals to preserve their wealth and assets. As a result, for certain consumer segments, lack of financial education can become a source of hardship. In this study, we use data from the U.S. Financial Industry Regulatory Authority’s (FINRA) 2021 National Financial Capability Study. The correlation between financial literacy and long-term financial behaviors is empirically examined and further dissected by gender and income, to identify population segments who may be vulnerable due to lack of adequate financial education. Significant patterns of financial literacy scores are identified, highlighting the need to enhance financial education offerings to vulnerable consumer segments.