Government Accountability Office Report on Financial Literacy

Section 1013 of The Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act 2010 (“Dodd-Frank Act”) directs the Government Accountability Office (“GAO”) to study ways of improving financial literacy and the feasibility of certifying organisations that provide financial literacy. This report responds to that mandate by examining: (i) what is known about which methods and strategies are effective for improving financial literacy, and (ii) the feasibility of a process for certifying financial literacy providers and the benefits and challenges of doing so. The GAO conducted a literature search of studies, reports, and articles developed by academic researchers, the nonprofit sector, and government agencies that evaluated the effectiveness of financial literacy and education efforts. The GAO concludes that it appears that no one approach, delivery mechanism, or technology constitutes best practice, but there is some consensus on key common elements for successful financial education programs, such as timely and relevant content, accessibility, cultural sensitivity, and an evaluation component. In addition, several mechanisms and strategies other than financial education have also been shown to be effective in improving consumers' financial behavior, including financial incentives or changing default options, such as through automatic enrollment in employer retirement plans. The GAO concludes that the most effective approach may involve a mix of financial education and these other strategies.

Originally Published: 
28/06/2011