Mississippi earns 70/100 in financial transparency, ranking 37 among 50 states

Mississippi earned a total score of 70 out of 100 in Truth in Accounting’s Financial Transparency Score 2025 report, ranking 37 out of 50 states. This year’s analysis highlights both improvements and concerns in how state governments disclose their true financial condition.

The score reflects an evaluation of Mississippi’s Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR), a key document that should offer a clear picture of a government’s finances. Mississippi received a clean audit opinion, which contributed 50 points to its total. Other factors included timeliness of reporting, presence of deferred items that distort financial clarity, and how pension liabilities are disclosed.

Accurate and timely financial reporting has a direct impact on taxpayers, citizens, journalists, and even state lawmakers.

“Without accurate and timely financial information, it’s nearly impossible for citizens to hold their governments accountable,” said Sheila Weinberg, founder and CEO of Truth in Accounting.

Truth in Accounting’s report provides a roadmap for states to improve fiscal transparency, empowering citizens with the information needed to understand how public money is managed. You can explore the full report and see how Mississippi compares to others at truthinaccounting.org.