Like many in my generation, I remember sitting at the dinner table with my parents at the end of each month, and as I did my homework, they paid the bills, wrote checks, and set budgets.

In today’s digital age, most of Gen Z has never written a check or received a mailed bill — it all happens automatically now, most times, without even a tap or swipe. With money flowing in and out of our accounts, sometimes without us knowing, it’s no wonder Gen Z has the lowest financial literacy levels among all generations today.

A recent survey showed that 96.3% of Gen Z said that they were worried about money at least once a week, and 17.2% don’t think they’ll ever have enough money to buy their own home. Despite these unsettling statistics, financial literacy isn’t taught in most high schools or colleges, making many young adults unprepared for managing their own finances in the real world.

With the added school pressures, student loans, job hunting, and many more, Gen Z doesn’t really have the time to worry about saving — until rent is due at the end of the month. To make matters worse, the insecurity and judgement around money is at an all time high, making it difficult for parents to discuss finances with their kids.

Ultimately, the only true way to reverse Gen Z’s low financial literacy lies in technology. Growing up, I learned so much by seeing my parents physically pay bills and balance a checkbook. I got to see exactly how much came in, how much went out, and how my parents budgeted for everything from groceries to mortgage payments. By contrast, Gen Z typically simply sees a running “available balance” number in their banking apps, with limited information on how they’re earning, spending, or saving. For most Gen-Zers, when their balance is higher, they spend more — until it’s not. This cycle repeats itself for many every payday, until they’re burdened with more debt to make ends meet.

Of course it would be unreasonable to ask today’s generation to balance a checkbook, but digital platforms can and should replicate that same sense of transparency and control. Many platforms and software exist to help Gen Z with financial planning, including American Express’s own SpendSmart.

These programs help younger generations better visualize how they’re spending and saving, including helping them manage an endless list of subscriptions they’re paying for. They can even provide personalized simulations on building good credit, investing, and saving for their next big milestone.

Coupled with the appropriate education, community initiatives and digital resources, Gen Z has the potential to become the most financially empowered generation to date. This strong foundation will only make future generations financially stronger, and benefit the entire economy.