About the MSCPA Financial Literacy League

The Missouri Society of Certified Public Accountants (MSCPA) has teamed up with the AICPA’s 360 Degrees of Financial Literacy to improve the financial health of Missourians. The MSCPA Financial Literacy League is part of a national effort of the CPA profession to reach out to the community and educate the public on the financial planning issues that apply to various stages of life.

Why Financial Literacy?

Financial literacy can be defined as the ability to effectively evaluate and manage one’s finances in order to make prudent decisions toward reaching life goals.

Financial illiteracy is a huge problem in the United States. Check out these startling statistics:

• According to a recent survey, 20 percent of employees are unable to carry out normal work activities up to three days a week due to financial concerns. 
• More than 1/3 of Americans report that they do not use a budget to manage their family's expenses. 
• In 1999, 66 percent of high school seniors taking a basic economic literacy test failed. The results were worse in 2000 and 2001.
• Most people have never learned how to manage their money, and according to the Wall Street Journal, that is why 70 percent of Americans are living paycheck to paycheck. 

Without a doubt, the resulting financial stress negatively impacts work performance and home life.

Financial Literacy League Champion Program

Share the financial literacy message with your organization or a community group. Volunteer to be a Financial Literacy League Champion!  Increase your visibility in the community and the public’s awareness of financial issues, how to handle them, and the CPA profession.