National Get Smart About Credit Day

Happy diverse group of people, dressed in business attire, standing around a big calculator, against a backdrop of financial charts and graphs.. — National get smart about credit day illustration

Welcome to National Get Smart About Credit Day! It's time to whip out your calculators and put on your thinking caps because we're diving into the fascinating world of credit. Whether you're a savvy spender or a fiscal flounder, this national day is all about educating yourself on the ins and outs of credit. So get ready to learn, laugh, and maybe even shed a tear as we explore the internet history of this important day.

When is Get Smart About Credit Day?

It's national get smart about credit day on the 15th October.

What is National Get Smart About Credit Day?

On this special day, which falls on October 15th each year, people are encouraged to take a step back and evaluate their credit knowledge. It's a time to brush up on your financial literacy, learn about responsible borrowing, and understand how credit impacts your life. Whether you're a young student just starting out or a seasoned adult with years of financial experience, National Get Smart About Credit Day has something for everyone.

The Internet's Credit-Obsessed Celebration

Ever since this day was established, people around the world have been flocking to the internet to share their credit stories, tips, and tricks. From personal finance blogs to social media platforms, it seems like everyone has something to say about credit. In fact, we detected a whopping 257 mentions online, with the highest number of mentions occurring on October 15th, 2020.

Did You Know?

We know credit can be a dry subject, but here's a fun fact to lighten the mood: Did you know that the average person has about four credit cards in their wallet? It's like having a tiny fan club cheering you on every time you swipe!

History behind the term 'Get Smart About Credit'

1968

The Birth of Get Smart

In 1968, the television show 'Get Smart' was created by Mel Brooks and Buck Henry. The show was a comedy spoof of the spy genre, featuring the bumbling secret agent Maxwell Smart, also known as Agent 86. The character of Max Smart became well-known for his catchphrases and comedic antics, instantly captivating audiences worldwide.

1992

Birth of the Equal Credit Opportunity Act

In 1992, the Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA) was enacted, prohibiting credit discrimination based on factors such as race, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, or age. This act aimed to ensure that all individuals have equal access to credit and that lenders cannot discriminate against borrowers based on protected characteristics.

1968

Creation of the Credit CARD Act

In 1968, the U.S. Congress passed the Truth in Lending Act (TILA) as part of the Consumer Credit Protection Act. This legislation aimed to protect consumers from unfair and deceptive practices by lenders. TILA required lenders to disclose the terms and costs of credit, ensuring transparency for borrowers. It marked a significant step towards empowering consumers to make informed decisions about credit.

2003

The Birth of Get Smart About Credit

In 2003, the American Bankers Association (ABA) launched a national campaign called 'Get Smart About Credit.' It aimed to raise awareness and provide consumers with important information about credit, debt management, and financial responsibility. The campaign primarily targeted young adults, encouraging them to make informed decisions to build a strong credit history.

2005

Promoting Financial Literacy

As the 'Get Smart About Credit' campaign gained momentum, financial institutions, schools, and non-profit organizations started partnering with the ABA to spread the message of financial literacy. Educational events, workshops, and resources were developed to equip individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills to manage their credit wisely.

2003

Launch of the Get Smart About Credit Campaign

In 2003, the American Bankers Association (ABA) initiated a nationwide campaign called 'Get Smart About Credit.' This educational program aimed to increase awareness and understanding of credit among young people, primarily high school and college students. The campaign provided resources and materials to schools and community organizations to help teach students about responsible credit use and financial management.

2003

Formation of the Get Smart About Credit initiative

In 2003, the American Bankers Association (ABA) Foundation launched the Get Smart About Credit initiative. The goal was to educate young people on credit management, financial responsibility, and how to make informed decisions regarding credit. This initiative aimed to empower individuals to take control of their financial lives and make wise credit choices.

2003

The Introduction of 'Get Smart' into the Public Consciousness

In 2003, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) launched an educational campaign called 'Get Smart About Credit.' Inspired by the popular television show, the campaign aimed to increase awareness and understanding of credit among young people. It focused on educating students about the importance of using credit responsibly and making wise financial decisions.

2009

Growing Recognition and Participation

In 2009, the importance of financial literacy and credit education gained widespread recognition. More organizations and institutions started actively participating in the 'Get Smart About Credit' campaign. This involvement contributed to the expansion of educational initiatives, including seminars, webinars, and interactive tools, all aimed at empowering individuals to make informed credit-related decisions.

2004

National Get Smart About Credit Day

The National Get Smart About Credit Day was first observed on the third Thursday of October in 2004. This day served as a platform to promote financial literacy and educate individuals about credit management strategies. Financial institutions, educators, and community organizations organized various events and workshops to spread awareness about the importance of being informed and responsible borrowers.

2007

Focus on Financial Literacy

As the importance of financial literacy became a national concern, the Get Smart About Credit campaign gained momentum. With an increased focus on teaching personal finance skills, the program expanded to reach a broader audience beyond just students. Financial institutions and nonprofit organizations across the United States joined forces to promote financial literacy and empower individuals and families to make wise credit choices.

2008

The Official Recognition of 'Get Smart About Credit' Day

In 2008, the American Bankers Association (ABA) designated the third Thursday of October as 'Get Smart About Credit' Day. This annual observance was created to promote financial literacy and empower consumers with knowledge about credit, debt, and financial management. The ABA encouraged banks and other financial institutions to participate in activities and educational initiatives to support the cause.

2010

International reach and recognition

The success of the Get Smart About Credit campaign extended beyond the United States. It gained international recognition as financial institutions and organizations worldwide recognized the importance of educating the public about credit. The campaign's resources and materials were shared globally, contributing to a broader understanding of credit and responsible borrowing practices.

2007

Expansion of Get Smart About Credit

As the importance of financial literacy grew, the Get Smart About Credit initiative expanded its reach. In 2007, it started offering online resources, educational materials, and tools to help individuals gain knowledge about credit, debt management, and building good credit history. The initiative aimed to equip people of all ages with the skills necessary to navigate the credit landscape successfully.

2012

Embracing Technology and Social Media

Recognizing the influence of technology and social media on communication, the 'Get Smart About Credit' campaign embraced these platforms in 2012. Resources, tips, and expert advice became easily accessible online, reaching a broader audience. Interactive quizzes, videos, and infographics were developed to engage and educate individuals in an engaging and user-friendly manner.

Present

Continued Efforts to Raise Credit Awareness

Since its inception, the 'Get Smart About Credit' campaign has continued to grow and expand. Institutions and organizations across the United States have joined forces to provide resources, workshops, and educational materials to help individuals of all ages get smart about credit. The initiative has helped countless people gain a better understanding of credit scores, credit reports, and the impact of financial decisions on their lives.

2018

Continued Impact and Evolution

The 'Get Smart About Credit' campaign continues to have a significant impact in promoting credit literacy and empowering individuals. The campaign has evolved over the years, keeping up with changing trends, technology, and financial landscapes. With the support of various stakeholders and the dedication of financial education advocates, 'Get Smart About Credit' remains an essential resource for encouraging financial responsibility and credit knowledge.

2017

Continued significance and awareness

The Get Smart About Credit initiative continues to be significant in promoting financial literacy and credit management skills. National Get Smart About Credit Day is observed each year on the same third Thursday of October. Through the years, this initiative has positively contributed to empowering individuals to make informed decisions about credit, leading to a more financially knowledgeable population.