National Financial Capability Month is observed during the month of April every year. It is a time to highlight the value of high-quality financial education to improve Americans’ financial capability. The first step toward a brighter financial future is to educate yourself and be aware of your possibilities, and this month is the perfect time to do that.
History of National Financial Capability Month
Since the dawn of civilization, finance has existed in some form or another. Whether it was for grains and cattle or actual money, banking has been around since 3000 B.C. Temples and palaces were previously used as safes, and trade was facilitated through the use of lending and the concept of interest. Money eventually became characterized as the financial system’s primary “valuable.”The management, development, and study of money is referred to as finance. It is concerned with how a group or individual obtains money, as well as how they spend and/or invest it. It is a complex yet essential system of society and is a key player in determining how the world works. To truly boil things down, finance is your ability to manage money and your capability to do it well. This is where financial capability comes in.Financial literacy is required to effectively handle money. Financial literacy is a combination of skills and information that allows a person to make informed and effective financial decisions using all of their available resources. Countries such as Australia, Canada, Japan, the United States, and the United Kingdom realize the importance of this and are now focusing on increasing interest in personal finance. People who understand basic financial concepts can better navigate the financial system and make better financial judgments and manage their money than those who have not.Being financially literate and aware of the tips and tricks to this system makes you capable of effectively managing money. National Financial Capability Month is an initiative to highlight the importance of financial capability and literacy and to educate individuals on becoming more aware and efficient.
National Financial Capability Month timeline
Temples and palaces emerge as safe places to store valuables.
The Code of Hammurabi outlines banking laws.
Cowrie shells are used as money in China.
The Lydians start to use coin money.
National Financial Capability Month FAQs
When is National Financial Awareness Day?
National Financial Awareness Day is recognized on August 14th every year.
When was paper money made?
The first paper money is believed to be printed in China during AD 960 – 1279.
When were dollars made?
The first-ever dollar bill was printed in 1862.
How to Observe National Financial Capability Month
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Evaluate your financial capability
Knowing where you stand financially is the first step toward becoming financially capable. Examine your bank account, wages, expenses, credit reports, and other financial information to gain a better understanding of your present financial situation.
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Learn about financial capability
This month, set aside some time to learn more about the financial system in general. Learn about the various investment options and opportunities available, as well as other aspects of financial management.
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Elevate your financial capability
Consider the possibilities and opportunities you've discovered as a result of your research and determine whether any of them correspond with your financial objectives. This could be an investment opportunity or simply creating a new budget for yourself; either way, you're taking a step toward financial independence.
5 Facts About Money That You Probably Didn’t Know
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Be careful with the $20 bill
The $20 bill is the most counterfeited bill of all time.
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It could be from North Korea
North Korea specializes in counterfeiting U.S. currency.
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The lifespan can be short
A typical $1 bill only lasts for about 18 months,
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Most of it is digital
Only 8% of the world’s currency is physical money.
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It can be costly
It costs the government $0.02 to make a penny.
Why National Financial Capability Month is Important
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It gives us a chance to be proactive
Financial emergencies seldom send out an announcement before they come. This month gives us the opportunity to keep one step ahead of the game and plan for the future rather than being caught off guard by a lack of foresight and planning.
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It reminds us of the value of money
Money is one of the most important factors of life and survival. As a result, the finance system is incredibly powerful and it is important to stay aware of it and in tune to keep moving forward.
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It enables us to take control
No matter what the situation is, becoming aware and educated is a great stepping stone to take charge and turn things over. This month a ton of organizations and experts share tips and tricks and resources in order to get more financially capable than ever.
National Financial Capability Month dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | April 1 | Saturday |
| 2024 | April 1 | Monday |
| 2025 | April 1 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | April 1 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | April 1 | Thursday |
