A recent national survey commissioned by Cashback Loans, a California-based direct lender founded in 2003, reveals that 44% of U.S. adults have no emergency savings, according to America's Emergency Savings Report 2026. Conducted by 3 Gem Research & Insights between July 6 and August 10, 2026, the survey of 3,000 adults highlights significant financial vulnerability among American households. Among those who do save for emergencies, 17% have less than $1,000 set aside, leaving little cushion for unexpected expenses like medical bills, car repairs, or delayed paychecks.
The report also found that 37% of respondents borrowed money to cover essential living expenses in the previous 12 months. When seeking funds, no single source was used by a majority: 42% turned to relatives, 35% used credit cards, 34% borrowed from friends, and 23% relied on payday loans or cash advance services. Rising costs have forced 42% to reduce grocery spending due to inflation, and 69% say achieving financial security is harder today than five years ago. Additionally, 22% do not expect to feel financially secure at all.
Respondents' perceptions of financial security vary widely. When asked what annual household income would make them feel secure, answers ranged from $20,000-$50,000 to $900,001-$1,000,000, with a calculated average of $300,009. Notably, 35% chose an income below $100,000, and 51% chose $200,000 or less, suggesting that for many, security is tied to more modest income levels than the average implies.
These findings have significant implications for the Long Beach area and beyond. With nearly half of adults lacking emergency savings, local businesses may see reduced consumer spending during economic shocks, while demand for short-term financial solutions could rise. The report underscores the importance of accessible financial services and informed borrowing decisions. For consumers, practical takeaways include building savings gradually, knowing essential monthly expenses, planning ahead for emergencies, and comparing borrowing options on total cost, fees, repayment timing, and consequences of missed payments. As a direct lender with over 20 years of experience and more than 4 million loans funded in California, Cashback Loans provides online and retail access to financial services. Those interested in learning more can visit Learn more at Cashback Loans. The full report serves as an annual benchmark for tracking changes in emergency savings, borrowing, and financial confidence over time.
