THE 2026 FINANCIAL CONFIDENCE REPORT

More financially engaged. Still financially stuck.

Americans want more control. So why do so many still feel stuck? 
New research reveals a disconnect between paying attention to money and feeling confident enough to act.

Download the report

“The most important aspect of attaining financial confidence is knowing what you don’t know.”

Michael Liersch 
Chief Planning Officer, EFE

Gaps, by the numbers.

84%
of Americans want an active role in retirement planning rather than being surprised later.

38%
made a major purchase early over inflation fears—more than half among people under 50.

74%
worry about Social Security benefits being reduced or cut.

only
40%
know exactly how savings are invested. Nearly half feel stressed; 1 in 5 would be embarrassed to reveal their finances.

40%+
consult a planner before major decisions. 31% reach out early—before making any major financial decision.

More attention.  
Not always more confidence.

Americans are watching their money closely and want an active role in shaping their financial futures. But inflation, market swings, healthcare costs, Social Security uncertainty and information overload are making it harder to know what to do next.

That distance between engagement and action is the Financial Confidence Gap.

The opportunity is to turn awareness into a clear next step—with the help of a plan.

“For many people, their financial reality feels mixed.”