AEA Papers and Proceedings
ISSN 2574-0768 (Print) | ISSN 2574-0776 (Online)
Refining the Definition of the Unbanked
AEA Papers and Proceedings
(pp. 289–293)
Abstract
We propose a new way to classify individuals without a bank account, accounting for their actual interest in being banked. Analogous to how unemployment statistics are defined, we differentiate individuals that do not have a bank account and would like to have one (“unbanked”) from individuals that do not have a bank account and are not interested in having one (“out of banking”). Using FDIC data, we show the evolution over time of these new measures and show that the two groups differ in policy-relevant ways. These factors should be considered when designing policies aimed at increasing financial inclusion.Citation
Falcettoni, Elena, and Vegard M. Nygaard. 2026. "Refining the Definition of the Unbanked." AEA Papers and Proceedings 116: 289–293. DOI: 10.1257/pandp.20261006Additional Materials
JEL Classification
- D12 Consumer Economics: Empirical Analysis
- G21 Banks; Depository Institutions; Micro Finance Institutions; Mortgages
- G51 Household Finance: Household Saving, Borrowing, Debt, and Wealth