To truly support employees, employers must first understand what employees are actually experiencing in their everyday lives. And to help aid employers, BenefitHub prioritizes listening directly to employees, capturing real-life sentiments through our bi-yearly surveys to uncover the financial pressures shaping today’s workforce.
Economic uncertainty is no longer a distant concern for American workers—it’s a daily reality. Rising prices, mounting debt, and growing job insecurity are reshaping how employees spend, save, and plan for the future. BenefitHub’s “2026 Outlook: Economic Well-Being of U.S. Employees,” based on insights from more than 17,000 U.S. employees, reveals a clear message: today’s workforce is under pressure, and employees are actively searching for ways to stay financially afloat.
For employers, this moment presents both a challenge and an opportunity. The organizations that respond with practical, meaningful support can help employees survive—and even stabilize—in today’s economy while strengthening trust, engagement, and loyalty.
More than half of employees report feeling pessimistic about the U.S. economy, a sentiment that has continued to worsen over the past year (1). Financial stress is not limited to one demographic; it cuts across income and age groups, with middle-income earners feeling particularly squeezed by persistent inflation.
This pessimism shows up in daily life. Two in three employees say they worry multiple times about affording essentials like groceries and household items (1). For many, financial anxiety has become a constant background noise—one that directly affects focus, productivity, and well-being.
Acknowledge the reality employees are facing. Transparent communication and benefits that address real, everyday costs—not just long-term planning—signal that your organization understands and cares.
Employees are responding to economic pressure by tightening their budgets. Nearly two-thirds report cutting back on spending in the past six months, especially on discretionary categories like dining, travel, and apparel. At the same time, more than 80% expect their household expenses to increase in the months ahead (1).
This creates a difficult paradox: workers are doing “everything right” by spending less, yet still expect to fall further behind.
Benefits that stretch paychecks—such as discounts on everyday essentials, groceries, and services—help offset rising costs without requiring salary increases. These tools provide immediate relief employees can feel right away.
With a softening labor market and ongoing layoff headlines, nearly half of employees are more concerned about job security than they were six months ago. These concerns are consistent across income levels, reinforcing the idea that financial stress is no longer confined to traditionally vulnerable groups (1).
When employees feel uncertain about their future, they naturally become more conservative—saving more when possible, delaying major purchases, and relying on credit to bridge gaps.
Support employees with benefits that build resilience, such as financial wellness resources, insurance options, and savings-focused programs. Even small signals of stability can reduce anxiety during uncertain times.
One of the clearest findings in the 2026 Outlook is the growing reliance on employee discounts. More than 90% of employees use discounts at least occasionally, and nearly 60% rely on them frequently when making purchasing decisions (1).
These are no longer “nice-to-have” perks. For many households, discounts, cash-back offers, and exclusive deals are essential tools for managing budgets and reducing stress.
Make savings benefits easy to find, easy to use, and relevant to daily life. Highlight how employees can use discounts for groceries, gas, travel, and family needs—not just big-ticket items.
The takeaway from the 2026 Outlook is clear: employees are actively adapting to economic pressure, and they value employers who help them do so. Organizations that provide practical, accessible benefits aren’t just easing financial strain—they’re fostering trust, loyalty, and long-term engagement.
As one survey respondent shared, “Any way I can save money just makes sense. I always start my shopping by looking at BenefitHub” (1).
In today’s economy, supporting employees’ financial well-being isn’t just good for workers—it’s good for business. The employers who meet employees where they are now will be the ones best positioned for the future.
About BenefitHub Intelligence™
BenefitHub Intelligence™ helps employers understand the real economic challenges employees face—and how to respond. Twice a year, we survey members to better understand their evolving needs, stressors, and priorities. These insights directly inform how we at BenefitHub adapt our platform and offerings to better support today’s workforce.
The end-of-year report published by BenefitHub Intelligence™, "The Economic Well-Being of U.S. Employees," includes responses from more than 17,000 members. The findings were clear: cost-of-living concerns remain widespread, and for many employees, savings aren’t a nice-to-have—they’re a necessity. By turning employee voices into actionable insight, BenefitHub helps organizations mitigate financial stress and deliver benefits that make a meaningful difference. Contact us today to learn more.
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