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Unbanked and Underbanked Consumers
More than 2.3 million households in the Tenth Federal Reserve District - and 30 million nationally - rely on non-banks to meet all or some of their basic financial needs. To better understand this population, the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City conducted a qualitative research project involving dozens of unbanked and underbanked individuals.
Additional Research
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FDIC National Survey of Unbanked and Underbanked Households
The 2009 FDIC survey collected data on the national, state and metro area levels.
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FDIC National Survey of Banks' Efforts to Serve the Unbanked and Underbanked
The survey of banks across the country found a variety of programs and strategies in place.
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Changes in U.S. Family Finances from 2004 to 2007: Evidence from the Survey of Consumer Finances
This Federal Reserve report highlights changes in families’ incomes from 2004 to 2007.
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Additional Federal Reserve Publications
Find further research and resources by searching for “unbanked” using the link above.
Organizations Developing Solutions
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Bank On Programs
Bank On programs bring together local government, financial institutions, and community organizations to help improve the financial futures of unbanked families.
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Center for Financial Services Innovation
The Center for Financial Services Innovation is a non-profit focused on improving the quality and quantity of financial products and services for underbanked consumers.
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REAL Solutions
A National Credit Union Foundation program aimed at developing new financial products to meet the needs of underbanked consumers.
Help for Consumers
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Federal Reserve Consumer Help
If you have questions or complaints about financial service providers, or for other consumer credit or protection resources, visit Federal Reserve Consumer Help.
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Foreclosure Resource Center
A one-stop source for foreclosure information and resources.
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Navigating the Credit Card Process
The Federal Reserve has prepared a list of tips and a short video to help consumers get the most from their credit cards.