Ask an Expert — Master Your Money During National Financial Literacy Month

April is National Financial Literacy Month, established in 2003 to teach Americans the importance of creating and maintaining healthy financial habits. During this month, individuals are encouraged to explore topics such as budgeting, saving, investing and debt management.

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, combined with a review of research and consultation with leading experts, found that financial well-being includes the following four elements:

1. Having control over day-to-day and month-to-month finances.
2. Having the capacity to absorb a financial shock.
3. Being on track to meet your financial goals.
4. Having the financial freedom to make the choices that allow you to enjoy life.

Financial well-being assists with feelings of financial security and financial freedom of choice, both in the present and future.

Through classes and other resources, the Utah State University Extension personal finance education program can empower Utahns with the skills needed to navigate the world of finance confidently. For the past three years, USU Extension has received the Best of State Award for Personal Finance Education for providing award-winning financial programs.

Consider these financial tools to help you during National Financial Literacy Month.

• Instagram Book Club: Every Monday, join the discussion about “The Latte Factor” by David Bach on the @utahmoneymoms Instagram account. Share your money management insights or follow along for personal finance best practice tips.

• Free Webinars: Every Tuesday and Thursday at noon, hear about financial topics like budgeting for summer fun, the ABCs of credit reports, and secrets you need to know about your credit score. Register here.

• 2024 Finance Calendar: Every week on the @utahmoneymoms Instagram account, you will see financial tasks to help improve your financial wellness. Download the free finance calendar.

• Finance.usu.edu: Visit our finance websitefor further information. Here you can learn about the online home buyer education course, the online PowerPay Money Master Course, and the Power Pay debt reduction tool.