2012 Assets & Opportunity Scorecard
By any measure, poverty in the United States is increasing. In 2011, the country saw the poverty rate rise to 15.1%, the highest level in nearly two decades. However, the official poverty rate released annually by the Census Bureau highlights just one aspect of household finances, namely the percentage of people with insufficient income to cover their day-to-day expenses. It does not account for the resources a family has to meet emergencies or longer-term needs. The Scorecard will offer critical new data on the growing number of Americans who are “asset poor,” meaning they lack the savings or other assets to cover basic expenses for just three months if a layoff or other emergency leads to loss of income. The latest findings will show significant increases in “asset poverty” since the release of the previous Assets & Opportunity Scorecard in 2009.
The 2012 Assets & Opportunity Scorecard paints a bleak picture of rising asset poverty and diminishing financial security of Americans. Without intervention, the nation is headed toward even greater disparities in income, wealth and opportunity. However, policymakers have the tools to change this trajectory. This new report looks at the national data highlights from the 2012 Scorecard, makes the connection between policy and outcomes, and addresses the critical role states play in laying the groundwork for economic prosperity.
The Asset & Opportunity Scorecard was nationall released in January 2012 in a web conference featuring experts and reserachers. The webinar, highlighted key national and state findings, including the latest asset poverty rates and other measures of financial security and opportunity. Register below to find out how your state fares in helping its residents achieve financial security. Stay tuned for a recording of the webinar.
Find the full report in the link below.
