Financial pressures appear to be easing for some Americans, with fewer people postponing major life decisions for money, a new survey commissioned by the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) has found.
The share of Americans who said they delayed at least one decision for financial reasons over the past year fell to 55% in 2026, down from 61% in 2025.
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The finding is part of Financial Literacy Month survey, conducted online by The Harris Poll on behalf of AICPA from 10 to 12 March 2026. The poll included 2,091 adults aged 18 located across the US.
According to the survey results, around 45% reported that they had not postponed any plans for financial reasons in the previous 12 months. That figure has risen six percentage points from 39% in the prior year.
It added that one in three Americans had put off a holiday because of financial constraints. In addition, 16% reported delaying the purchase of a home.
When asked how they felt about their financial situation over the next year compared with the previous 12 months, 36% said they feel much or somewhat better. This is slightly above the 33% recorded in 2025.
Another 37% said they feel neither better nor worse, a flat result versus last year.
Meanwhile, 27% reported feeling much or somewhat worse, three percentage points lower than in the earlier survey.
AICPA Personal Financial Planning senior manager Cary Sinnett said: “The optimism seen in financial outlook for 2026 is encouraging however, the reality of rising prices highlights the need for Americans, in particular, those aged 18-34, to prioritise their financial well-being.”
Among Americans who reported postponing plans or purchases in the past year, 59% attributed those decisions to the cost of goods and services, a slight uptick from 2025.
Respondents aged 18–34 were the most likely to have delayed something for financial reasons, at 70%, compared with 45% among those aged 45 and older.
Among those aged 65 and above, 68% said they had not put off any plans for financial reasons in the past year.
AICPA Personal Financial Planning senior manager Cary Sinnett said: “The optimism seen in financial outlook for 2026 is encouraging however, the reality of rising prices highlights the need for Americans, in particular, those aged 18-34, to prioritise their financial well-being.
“Consumers can utilise Financial Literacy Month as a starting point to take charge of their finances.”
