Personal Finance Starts at Home, New Report Says

A new report says many people still do not know enough about money. This is true even though more high schools now teach personal finance.

The 2026 TIAA Institute GFLEC Personal Finance Index found that adults answered only 47% of basic money questions the right way. This is the lowest score in the study's 10 year history. Young adults in Generation Z did the worst. They scored only 38%.

Many states now make students take a personal finance class before they finish high school. But the new report says this may not be enough.

Experts say children start learning about money at a very young age. They watch how their parents save, spend and talk about money. These early lessons can shape their money habits for life.

The report says knowing about money is not the same as using money well. A student may learn about saving in school. But good habits grow with practice at home every day.

The report also says parents have a big part to play. Simple things like saving for a goal or talking about a family budget can help children learn.

Credit unions can also help families. They can offer easy money lessons and fun activities for children and parents. This can help young people build good habits before they become adults.

The report ends with a clear message. Personal finance should not start only in high school. It should begin at home when children are young. Small lessons each day can help build a strong future.