Over 29 million Americans comprise the “at risk” segment – most likely of all the segments to live paycheck to paycheck and run out of money before the end of the month. Seven in ten struggle to keep on top of their bills, and a quarter are actually falling behind on credit and bill payments. They are the most likely of all segments to have lost a job, had hours cut or pay reduced, received an eviction or foreclosure notice, or had a health emergency in the last five years. Most of them work – three-quarters receive wages from an employer, and one-quarter earns over $60,000 annually. This diverse population spans all income and demographics but is similar in their high levels of financial stress and insecurity.
MetLife Foundation is a major sponsor of CFSI’s ongoing consumer financial health work, including these segment briefs.