This week’s #CreditChat with @Experian kicked off Financial Literacy Month with one of my favorite topics: empowering people with the knowledge and tools to take control of their finances. You know I’m all about helping others build credit confidence and long-term financial strength, and this chat was full of simple, practical steps to help you do exactly that.
Whether you’re just starting out or refreshing your money mindset, here’s my full recap—let’s get to it:
Q1: What does financial literacy mean to you, and why is it important in today’s economy?
A1: Financial literacy means having the knowledge and confidence to make smart money decisions—from credit to saving to planning for the future. It gives you power and peace of mind in any economy. When you understand your money, you control it—instead of it controlling you.
Q2: What are the top three personal finance skills everyone should learn?
A2: You know me—I always start with credit because it truly affects so much of your life. So here’s my list:
- Understanding your credit—it can save (or cost) you thousands
- Budgeting—so you feel in control, not overwhelmed
- Saving—because peace of mind is everything
Master these, and you’re on the right path.
Q3: What are some tips to help people save consistently, even on a tight budget?
A3: You don’t have to make a lot to start saving.
- Automate it from your paycheck
- Use cash back rewards from credit cards
- Cancel unused subscriptions
It’s about consistency and keeping it simple.
Q4: How can responsible credit use improve your financial future?
A4: Good credit gives you options—and options give you freedom. Strong credit helps lower interest rates, insurance premiums, and yes—it can even impact getting a job. This is why I talk about credit so much.
Q5: What role does investing play in long-term financial stability?
A5: You’re either earning compound interest or paying it. Learning to invest—even starting small—can create long-term financial stability. And it starts with knowledge. Read. Learn. Ask questions. Take action.
Q6: What are the psychological barriers to budgeting, and how can you overcome them?
A6: Budgeting can feel restrictive if you see it that way. Try reframing it—call it your freedom plan, your money map, or even tie it to your word of the year. When your mindset shifts, so does your money.
Q7: How can understanding interest rates and minimum payments help you stay out of financial trouble?
A7: Interest adds up fast. If you’re only paying the minimum, it can keep you in debt longer than you realize. Understand how it works, use financial tools, and make a plan to pay off more than the minimum when you can.
Q8: How can financial literacy help protect against identity theft and fraud?
A8: When you know how to read your credit report and track your accounts, you’re more likely to catch identity theft or fraud early. The more you know, the more you can protect what you’ve built.
Q9: How does financial literacy support long-term goals like retirement?
A9: Like I said earlier—you’re either earning or paying compound interest. Financial literacy helps you recognize how today’s decisions shape your future. It’s not about being perfect, it’s about being aware and prepared.
Q10: What resources or tools do you recommend for improving financial literacy?
A10: Let me ask you something—are you following me yet? If not, now’s the time. I’m always talking about credit, budgeting, saving, and building confidence with your finances. With Financial Literacy Month here, I’ll be sharing even more tips and tools to help you level up.
👉 Follow me and tune in to my Credit Over Coffee podcast for real talk and money moves you can actually use.
💙 Final Thoughts
A big thank you to @Experian for continuing to host these incredible weekly conversations. Financial Literacy Month is a powerful reminder that when we take the time to learn about our money, we create space for more freedom, more peace of mind, and more opportunity.
Knowledge is power. Credit is confidence. And your money? It should always work for YOU.
Let’s keep the momentum going all month long! Follow me on social, share this blog, and make your next money move the one that changes everything.
#CreditChat #FinancialLiteracyMonth #CreditConfidence #JeanneKelly
