Mutual of Omaha survey shows declining financial confidence in Americans

According to Mutual of Omaha’s 2026 Protection Index Survey, conducted with quantilope, only 21% of Americans feel financially prepared and assured in their ability to protect their futures. The survey indicates a decline in overall financial confidence, driven by economic factors such as persistent inflation, stagnant wages, and a cooling job market.

While individuals are engaging in various financial behaviors—such as paying down debt, saving for retirement, and building emergency funds—many still report feeling as though they are falling behind. The survey notes that different people define financial security through various metrics, including having little to no debt (34%), homeownership (29%), maintaining emergency savings (27%), saving for retirement (26%), and having insurance coverage (26%).

Nate Hobson, vice president of sales for the Advisor Network at Mutual of Omaha, suggests that financial confidence is built through consistency rather than waiting for perfect timing or a specific amount of wealth. Experts recommend creating a financial cushion through modest emergency funds to reduce reliance on credit during unexpected expenses.