A money checkup

National Financial Literacy Month highlights pathways toward smart decisions

By Michael Pramik, Ohio Public Employees Retirement System

April 16, 2026 – April is recognized nationwide as National Financial Literacy Month, a time set aside to encourage people to take a closer look at their finances and build the knowledge needed to make informed decisions. At OPERS, we know our members are focused on long-term financial security. Whether you’re early in your career, approaching retirement or already retired, April can be a useful reminder to pause and review where you stand.

Financial literacy doesn’t require a major overhaul of your finances. Sometimes it simply means taking a few minutes to check your savings progress, revisit a retirement plan or explore tools that help clarify financial decisions. OPERS provides a pension that serves as a foundation for retirement security, but many members supplement that benefit with personal savings and additional retirement plans.

One place members can explore additional retirement planning resources is Ohio Deferred Compensation, which is now part of OPERS. The program offers several tools designed to help members better understand their financial picture and make adjustments as needed.

No matter where you are in life, Ohio DC has resources that can help answer important questions.

Already saving and want to learn more?

Members can explore the Enrich financial wellness platform along with a variety of calculators and planning tools. These resources can help you review your financial goals, estimate savings needs and consider ways to strengthen your overall plan.

Approaching retirement?

Members who are 50 or older may be eligible for catch-up contributions, allowing them to increase the amount they set aside each year. It can also be a good time to begin thinking about how savings will be used in retirement and to consider strategies for managing withdrawals.

Already retired?

Some retirees choose to keep their savings with Ohio DC to continue benefiting from the plan’s low fees and growth potential. Retirement can also be a good time to review beneficiary designations to make sure they reflect your current wishes.

Financial Literacy Month also can be a good opportunity to explore other reputable sources of financial education. Websites such as Investor.gov and MyMoney.gov offer free information about budgeting, saving, investing and retirement planning.

Ultimately, financial literacy isn’t about becoming an expert overnight. It’s about staying informed, asking questions and using the tools available to make thoughtful decisions over time. Small steps today can help support long-term financial confidence—and a more secure retirement tomorrow.