Financial Security Program

The Aspen Institute Financial Security Program works to ensure that households in America can afford everyday life, save for rainy days, and build enough wealth to achieve their dreams. Because when families are financially stable and secure, they increase their well-being—and that of their communities, too.

The transformational change we seek—to make financial security for all a top national priority—requires innovation, trust, and leadership across all sectors and systems. We help build the relationships and networks that enable this change through deep, deliberate dialogues and evidence-based research.

The Challenge

Widespread financial insecurity is among the most urgent crises facing the United States. Aspen FSP is tackling this crisis head-on.

55%

Of households lack the necessary savings to weather a simultaneous income drop and expense spike.

51%

Of U.S. households have expenses that are equal to or greater than their income.

Together with public, private, nonprofit, and community leaders, we are illuminating and solving the most critical financial challenges facing American households today. Join with us to create paths to prosperity that everyone can access.

Our Priorities

To help people at all income levels achieve financial security, we focus on three key areas.

Financial Stability

Everyone should be able to comfortably afford everyday life and withstand shocks.

Wealth and Ownership

Everyone should be able to save, invest, and own assets that grow in value over time and build long-term financial security.

Financial Systems

Everyone should be able to rely on a well-designed, well-run set of financial products, services, and infrastructure that make their financial lives efficient, seamless, and safe.

Financial Security Program

Latest Posts

Get the latest news and insights from the Financial Security Program.

Blog Posts

A Persistent Challenge: How Financial Shocks Continue to Undermine Family Financial Security

Most households experience at least one financial shock in a given year, but there are few comprehensive solutions to help them. How can we solve this persistent challenge?

October 30, 2025

A man speaks onstage
Publications

Lessons From Expert Roundtables on Implementing Trump Accounts

As leaders work to implement Trump accounts, Aspen FSP convened a series of roundtables to discuss how to make them work for the people who stand to benefit most. 

October 27, 2025

Blog Posts

Beyond Income: Worker Financial Security and the Role of Benefits Inside and Outside of the Workplace

U.S. workers need access to both public and workplace benefits, but often the connections between these benefits are fractured.

October 9, 2025

Our Events

Two women stand on stage
Economic Opportunity

2025 Workers’ Wealth Lab

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Tim Shaw speaks at a podium
Economic Opportunity

2025 Aspen Benefits Leadership Forum

| St. Louis, Missouri

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Economic Opportunity
Economic Opportunity
Economic Opportunity
Economic Opportunity
Four headshots against a blue background.
Economic Opportunity
Economic Opportunity

2025 Aspen Leadership Forum on Retirement Savings

| Charlottesville, VA

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Economic Opportunity
Economic Opportunity

2025 Aspen Leadership Forum on Inclusive Finance

| Washington, D.C.

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Stay Connected

Join our work to build financial security for all.

Learn more about how you can support Aspen’s Financial Security Program through a philanthropic grant, tax-deductible gift, or event sponsorship. 

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