Four Ways to Improve Your Financial Literacy

Insights from experienced financial professionals.

Personal finance is an important area of knowledge—but it's not always taught in schools. It may be tough to master when you haven't had much guidance prior to adulthood. You may be able to improve your financial literacy and maintain this base of knowledge. Read on for four tips and tricks that may significantly improve your financial literacy.

Read Financial Periodicals

Magazines, newsletters, and other financial periodicals are often written to those at varying levels of knowledge. When it comes to personal finance, you don't know what you don't know. Financial periodicals may provide a simple way to improve your financial vocabulary and gain knowledge on a range of topics, giving you some of what you need to take deeper dives into this material. There are many free periodicals, or you may wish to pay a small subscription fee to upgrade your access.

Work on a Budget

Focusing on your household's income and outflow may help you gain financial literacy through practice. By tracking where your money is going and identifying areas you may be able to cut costs, you may be able to take a hands-on approach to your finances. The process of investigating areas to trim your budget may be particularly helpful, as your research may lead you to some unexpected benefits. For example, if you begin shopping around for better auto insurance rates, you could find that you're paying for coverage you don't need. If you try to cut your internet bill, you could find you're eligible for a package discount that may give you more channels at a lower cost.

Read Personal Finance Books

If you'd like some top-to-bottom knowledge on a particular topic, try good old-fashioned books. You don't always need to get a physical copy—many of the most popular personal finance books are available for digital download, and some may even offer a trial. When browsing books, be sure to read reviews, as they may give you some good insight into what the book covers, how up-to-date it is, and whether the writing style is one that could click for you.

Ask for Professional Help

Often, talking to a financial professional helps these newfound financial concepts to your own future. You may already know you need to save more, choose better investments, or pay down debt—a financial professional may give you tailored guidance and show you how to work towards these goals in the way that is suitable for you.

 

 

^{The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. Investing involves risks including possible loss of principal. No investment strategy or risk management technique can guarantee return or eliminate risk in all market environments. LPL Tracking #1-05164155}