March 2017
Summary: The following report provides a comprehensive analysis of the personal finances of working women. Using data from the National Financial Capability Study conducted in 2015, we examined the financial capability of working women and how it changed since 2012.
The study showed as the economy steadily recovered, working women’s personal finances also improved. In particular, working women now find it easier to make ends meet, and are using alternative financial services less often. Further, women are less likely to carry credit card debt or engage in expensive credit card behaviors. However, several subgroups—those who are early in their careers, those with children, and those who have experienced marital disruption—still show signs of financial distress. In 2015, financial fragility decreased among working women, but one-third still state they would not be able to cover an unexpected expense of $2,000 in a month’s time….