Financial Well-Being as a Continuum

The federal Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) defines financial wellbeing as:

• having control over day-to-day finances
• being able to absorb a financial shock
• being on track toward financial goals
• having the freedom to make choices that help you enjoy life

As a continuum that is not strictly aligned with income level, financial wellbeing ranges from severe financial stress to being highly satisfied with one's financial situation. Through education, opportunity, and support, people can move along the continuum to greater financial wellbeing.