MainStreet Bank and the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) are celebrating Financial Literacy Month in April by encouraging Americans to take control of their financial future and learn fiscally responsible habits that can benefit them at every age and stage of their financial journey.

Twenty-seven percent of Americans report that “just getting by financially or finding it hard to get by” describes them completely or very well. Meanwhile 59% want financial advice, but only a third (32 percent) turn to registered financial advisors for help, despite the fact that 68 percent indicated a personalized financial plan based on their goals is important.

“Having strong financial principles and putting money management practices into action can help avoid financial missteps and improve your financial outlook at any age or life stage,” said Gabe Derosier, Senior Vice President and Community Development Officer for MainStreet Bank. “As a trusted financial advisor, located in the community and invested in your financial health, reach out and let us help power your financial potential.”

Often referred to as America’s favorite lenders, community banks are financial experts with a wealth of knowledge and local expertise to help consumers with:

• Budgeting to help you track income and expenses and build a plan to manage your finances, reach your financial goals, and create a nest egg.
• Saving and investing to help you assess savings and investment goals and vehicles.
• Using credit to establish and maintain good credit so you can reap the benefits from this convenient and flexible form of payment without the consequences of mismanagement.
• Understanding debt load and available options like debt consolidation before taking out a loan.

“Understanding financial principles is key to achieving your lifetime goals,” ICBA President and CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey said. “Whether you’re looking to fund educational pursuits, start a business, or plan for retirement, managing debt judiciously with the support of your trusted community banker can pave the way toward financial independence.”

ICBA also offers financial literacy programs through community bank partners including Visa’s Practical Money Skills, the FDIC’s Money Smart initiatives and the Jump$tart Coalition for Personal Financial Literacy. To find one of our community bank locations in your area visit, banklocally.org.

*Reference: Federal Reserve - Economic Well Being of US Households in 2022 - March 2023; PR Newswire - Nearly 3 in 5 Americans (59%) want financial advice but are not sure where to get it, according to intelliflo survey; and Independent Community Bankers of America.
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