Why AARP Needed a FinTech Curriculum

Financial Education for Seniors: In 2019, AARP—the nation’s largest nonprofit dedicated to Americans aged 50+—saw a troubling trend: millions of seniors were struggling to adapt to a digital financial system. As banking rapidly shifted online, many older adults were left behind, risking both access and security.

To address this challenge, AARP made financial education for seniors a national priority. Their goal? Equip older adults with the knowledge and confidence to navigate mobile banking, online payments, and digital fraud prevention—on their own terms.

How TheMoneyCoach.net Delivered a Senior-Friendly Digital Solution

AARP tapped TheMoneyCoach.net, founded by personal finance expert Lynnette Khalfani-Cox and tech innovator Earl Cox, to create a tailor-made fintech curriculum. Their approach honored seniors’ unique needs—focusing on clarity, accessibility, and respect.

The solution featured:

• Step-by-step video tutorials on mobile banking

• Plain-language guides and articles

• Live workshops offering personal, hands-on support

This hybrid model allowed older learners to grasp key digital banking skills, including:

• Depositing Social Security checks via smartphone

• Setting up account alerts and online transfers

• Identifying and avoiding financial scams

A Crisis-Proof Program That Reached Millions

Just months after the program’s launch, the COVID-19 pandemic hit. As banks closed and in-person services halted, seniors turned to the digital tools AARP had already put in place.

The result? Older adults who once relied on physical branches quickly adapted to digital banking, ensuring:

• Continued access to money during lockdowns

• Greater independence and financial confidence

• Long-term shifts toward secure, self-managed banking

 Impact Snapshot

• 38+ million AARP members gained access

• 10,000+ digital learning sessions completed in Year 1

• 94% of workshop attendees felt more confident with digital banking

Recognized as AARP Vendor of the Year

In 2020, TheMoneyCoach.net was named AARP Vendor of the Year—a testament to their impactful, senior-focused solution. The award recognized not just technical execution, but a commitment to senior financial empowerment and rapid, thoughtful innovation during a national crisis.

This initiative proved that legacy institutions can drive real change by teaming with mission-aligned innovators.

Testimonial

“I never thought I’d learn to bank online at my age—but now I show my friends how to do it. It’s changed how I manage everything.”
— Workshop Participant, Age 72

Broader Value and Replicability

The success of AARP’s digital banking initiative has inspired similar programs for underserved communities—from low-income families to college students and even corporate teams. The lesson: financial education for seniors isn’t just helpful—it’s essential, scalable, and deeply transformative.

Frequently Asked Questions

How was the financial education for seniors delivered?

The program used a hybrid model: digital videos and articles were paired with in-person workshops to guide seniors step-by-step through mobile banking tasks.

What made this initiative successful?

Its timing and real-world practicality. Launched before the pandemic, it provided seniors with tools to navigate remote banking during COVID-19.

What did seniors learn through this program?

They gained essential skills in using apps to deposit checks, send money, set alerts, and monitor account balances—safely and independently.

Why did AARP choose TheMoneyCoach.net?

Because of Lynnette’s trusted financial advice and Earl’s technology expertise, together, they built a program that worked for real people in real life.

Can this model be adapted for other groups?

Absolutely. This approach is now being considered for other audiences, including low-income families, students, and corporate employees.

Final Takeaway

This award-winning collaboration between AARP and TheMoneyCoach.net redefined what’s possible when older adults are empowered with digital tools. By prioritizing dignity, simplicity, and trust, they didn’t just teach skills—they sparked confidence, independence, and lasting financial well-being.