Nearly Four in Ten Americans Report Inability to Cover Unexpected Expenses, Survey Finds
A Credit Karma survey, highlighted by Denver7, reveals that 37% of Americans would be unable to cover a sudden unexpected expense. The study found this financial vulnerability is particularly acute among Generation Z respondents, with 46% reporting they could not…
Denver, CO, September 19, 2026 —
A recent survey indicates a significant portion of the American population, nearly two in five adults, faces challenges in covering unexpected financial emergencies. The study, conducted by Credit Karma and highlighted by Denver7, found that 37% of Americans reported they would be unable to afford a sudden, unforeseen expense.
The findings reveal a particular vulnerability among younger adults. Among Generation Z respondents, the inability to cover an unexpected cost was even more pronounced, with 46% stating they could not afford such an expenditure. This suggests a heightened level of financial precarity within this demographic.
The survey also pointed to the prevalence of unexpected costs. According to the study, a substantial 78% of Americans encountered at least one unexpected expense within the past year. These unforeseen financial demands are cited as a contributing factor to the ongoing rise in national credit card debt.
The Credit Karma survey did not provide details regarding the types of unexpected expenses encountered by respondents, nor did it specify the methods or sources individuals typically rely on to cover such costs when they arise. Similarly, the survey did not detail the specific credit card debt figures or trends beyond noting its increase as a consequence of unexpected expenses.
Story summarized from the original created by Justin Boggs on www.denver7.com, see more information here.
