Introduction. The article reflects the basic requirements for the results of the financial literacy system for the adult population. Theoretical analysis. The standard of basic knowledge is a tool in the field of education, fixing the level of knowledge that determines financial literacy. Empirical analysis. Financial knowledge is applied in nature, is a set of information and skills that have the property of universal applicability and are objectively necessary to maintain and improve financial well-being in daily life. Results. As a part of the implementation of the National Strategy for Financial Literacy in the Russian Federation for 2017–2023, the considered standards of basic knowledge for adults can be used in the process of developing regional programs aimed at a wide target audience, they can serve to identify factors and barriers to increasing the level of financial literacy of the Russian population, create effective tools for measuring the results of activities and a qualitative assessment of the results of work. The article was prepared as a part of the Project of the Ministry of Finance of the Russian Federation and the World Bank “Promoting Improving the Level of Financial Literacy of the Population and the Development of Financial Education in the Russian Federation”.