The Financial Literacy and Education Commission issued a background report at the end of last year, Developing the 2011 National Strategy

Introduction: The recent economic crisis has highlighted how essential it is that individuals and families have the information, education, and tools that they need to make good financial decisions in an increasingly complex U.S. and global financial system. Indeed, as we have learned, the financial difficulties of individuals and families can dramatically affect the financial health of local communities and regional markets. The crisis has also illustrated that the financial well-being of individuals and families is fundamental to national financial stability, and that a lack of financial literacy is one barrier that can lower standards of living and limit prosperity. Click Here to read the full National Strategy report