Americans surge toward financial resolutions for 2026 amid household budget concerns

Core Insights - A growing number of Americans are considering financial resolutions for the new year, with 64% indicating this intention, up from 56% last year [1] - The top three financial resolutions remain consistent: 44% aim to save more money, 36% want to pay down debt, and 30% plan to spend less [2] Financial Sentiment - 55% of respondents feel overwhelmed by personal finances, with Millennials (68%) and Gen Z (64%) feeling the most pressure [5] - Financial stress is prevalent, with 35% worried about saving for goals after bills, 34% about paying monthly bills, and 30% about healthcare costs in retirement [6] Financial Setbacks - Nearly three-quarters of Americans faced a financial setback last year, with 20% reporting an unexpected non-health emergency [6] - In 2025, 72% experienced some type of financial setback, and 33% feel they have significantly less money due to rising prices [9] Optimism and Improvement - Despite financial challenges, 70% of Americans feel they are in a better or similar financial situation compared to last year [9] - 43% of respondents feel better about their finances than five years ago, an increase from 36% last year [10] Short-term Savings Focus - There is a notable prioritization of short-term savings goals, with 25% wanting to build an emergency fund and 23% aiming to adhere to a spending budget [15] - The trend towards short-term savings is attributed to recent market volatility and the need to dip into savings [14]