Although banks and other financial institutions offer programs, their contribution is minuscule compared to their resources and the size of the problem. Since many of these provider institutions are organized at the state or local levels, the report gives a comprehensive picture of financial literacy training in Illinois, but also draws information from other states and describes national resources for local providers. A lack of resources is one reason that financial literacy programs reach few people. Financial literacy training is a long-term process and should exploit moments of opportunity in people's lives. Financial institutions have a continuing responsibility for clear and instructive advertising and honest dealing, and for marketing their products in lower-income communities.
Workplace training needs to be much more effective and reach more people.