As Financial Fulfillment Declines, More Americans Turn to Their Parents for Support
Only a small number of Americans say they feel financially fulfillment.
Findings from an Edward Jones and Gallup study show that just 16% of U.S. adults are financially fulfilled, while 83% report experiencing some level of financial stress, strain, or uncertainty.
Most respondents, at 51%, land between feeling financially insecure, but not in financial crisis. Many also report tying negative emotions to finances, with stress leading as the top sentiment, followed by anger and depression.
Among the financially stressed, half (52%) say their finances “often” or “always” control their lives, compared to 18% who feel conflicted over money and 2% who are financially fulfilled.
This new research makes clear that the strain is not just financial – it is showing up in people’s health, their relationships, and their sense of control over their own lives” said Jon Clifton, CEO at Gallup.
Other studies note how financial insecurity could impact personal relationships for U.S. adults. According to recent findings from Northwestern Mutual’s 2026 Planning & Progress Study, 42% of adults continue to rely on their parents for financial support, including 72% of Gen Zers, 53% of Millennials and 33% of Gen Xers.
One in five adults in Northwestern Mutual’s report also believe they’ll never reach financial independence, with Gen Xers agreeing with this statement more so than any other generation.
As defined benefit (DB) plans and pensions diminish, respondents say that financial autonomy is much harder to establish today than in previous decades. Over half (56%) of adults agree with this statement, and two-thirds of Baby Boomers concur. “Boomers and Gen X have memories of their parents’ retirement – grounded in defined benefits and pensions – and see that their path will look very different,” said Jeff Sippel, chief strategy officer at Northwestern Mutual.
Edward Jones’ findings underscore how guidance from a financial advisor could help individuals begin budgeting, saving for retirement, and reducing debt. According to the findings, those who have pursued financial advice in the past year are significantly more likely to be financially fulfilled, at 32% vs. 12%.
“What our financial advisors see and hear from our clients every day is reflected clearly in this research: millions of people feel stuck in the middle, not in crisis, but not fully confident either,” said Penny Pennington, managing partner at Edward Jones. “That’s where personalized advice matters most. By listening closely, building clear plans and focusing on trusted relationships, our advisors play a critical role in turning uncertainty into action and progress.”
Amanda Umpierrez is the Managing Editor of 401(k) Specialist magazine. She is a financial services reporter with nearly a decade of experience and a passion for telling stories and reporting news.