National Get Smart About Credit Day

National Get Smart About Credit Day is observed every year on the third Thursday of October as part of the Get Smart About Credit (GSAC) program. The day encourages young people to develop responsible financial habits and better understand credit, budgeting, and personal finance. Through the GSAC program, volunteers provide free educational resources covering topics such as credit scores, student loans, budgeting, fraud prevention, and identity theft.

History of National Get Smart About Credit Day

The American Bankers Association launched the Get Smart About Credit (GSAC) program in 2003 to help young people understand how financial decisions made early in life can affect their future. The program provides free educational materials and training for volunteers who visit schools, colleges, and community organizations to teach essential financial skills.

National Get Smart About Credit Day became part of this initiative to encourage conversations about responsible borrowing, saving, and money management. Today, the program continues to promote financial literacy through classroom presentations, workshops, and online educational resources.

Interesting Facts About National Get Smart About Credit Day

• The FICO credit scoring model was introduced in 1989 and remains one of the most widely used credit scoring systems in the United States.
• The three major U.S. credit reporting agencies are Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion.
• The Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act of 2003 gave Americans the right to receive one free credit report each year from each major credit bureau.
• Good credit can make it easier to qualify for loans, rent housing, or obtain favorable interest rates.

How to Take Part in National Get Smart About Credit Day

Review your personal finances and learn more about how credit works. If you are eligible, request your free annual credit report and check it for accuracy. Learning how credit scores are calculated can also help you make informed financial decisions.

You can also attend a financial literacy workshop, participate in a GSAC educational event, or share reliable financial resources with students, family members, or friends who are beginning to manage their own finances.

When Is National Get Smart About Credit Day in 2026?

National Get Smart About Credit Day is observed on the third Thursday of October each year.

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