The article is devoted to the study of the theoretical foundations of financial policy and its features at different levels of the financial system. The gaps in scientific research in financial policy analysis are outlined (there is no unambiguous interpretation of the concept of financial policy and its components; there are problems in structuring financial policy due to its incomplete classification and lack of orderliness). The need for the study of financial policy is identified because of its importance at the micro and macro levels of the economy. The terminological analysis of the concept of financial policy was carried out, the conclusion of which was the assertion that this concept is multidirectional, with attention focused on two directions of interpretation of financial policy – the financial policy of the state and the financial policy of the enterprise. The own interpretation of the concept of financial policy as a system is proposed. The choice of a systematic approach to defining the essence of financial policy is substantiated. The approaches of scientists to the structuring of financial policy are investigated. The common classification features of the financial policy of the state and the economic entity (by components, validity period, and tasks) are singled out. New classification features of the financial policy of the economic entity are proposed in view of the relationship with the concept of the financial policy of the state (according to the sources of formation, the way of interaction with the state, and directions of implementation). The classification of the financial policy of the economic entity (according to the types of activity and form of ownership) is separately supplemented. Approaches to the interpretation of the essence of a banking institution are determined. Based on the study, the interpretation of the concept of «financial policy of a banking institution» is proposed.