FNBO Releases 2025 Financial Wellbeing Study
OMAHA, Neb. September 23, 2025 – FNBO today released the results of its 2025 Financial Wellbeing Study, which examines how Americans are navigating saving, spending, and financial planning in today’s economic environment. The study reveals both the growing role of AI in personal finance and the challenges many households face when it comes to financial confidence and preparedness.
While many Americans have a strong financial foundation, the survey results underscore the importance of FNBO’s mission to improve the financial well-being of its customers and communities it serves.
“Rising expenses, advancing technology, and continued economic uncertainty make it more critical than ever for consumers to be intentional with their finances,” said Regina DeMars, Financial Insights Specialist at FNBO. “While everyone’s circumstances are different, focusing on the basics – consistent saving, mindful budgeting, and ongoing financial education – are timeless tools for financial stability.”
The survey found that 46% of Americans have used AI, like ChatGPT, to help with their personal finances, and an additional 50% trust AI when it comes to financial advice. Still, only 60% say they feel confident in their long-term financial plan, suggesting that while interest AI tools can help, financial security remains uncertain for many.
Additional findings include:
- Financial Planning & Security: One-third say they feel they are behind their peers when it comes to their finances. Additionally, 51% say in recent years their income has fallen behind the increase in the cost of living. 47% get financial advice from family, 31% from a financial advisor, 14% from friends, 8% from social media.
- Managing Expenses: 44% of Americans say an unexpected emergency expense of $1,000 would be a significant hardship. When an unexpected expense arises, 39% use emergency savings, 26% use credit card or loan, 19% use help from friends or family, 16% postpone or avoid the expense. When asked about which monthly expense they’d cut first from their monthly budget 38% say dining/takeout, 17% say travel, 16% say streaming services, and 12% say entertainment.
- Side Hustles: 26% of Americans have a side hustle, and 21% who do not currently have one say they are considering one.
- Social Media: 37% of Americans have made a financial decision based on what they saw on social media. Additionally, 30% say they trust the financial advice they see on social media.
To help consumers achieve their financial goals, FNBO offers the following saving strategies:
- Start An Emergency Fund: Build an emergency fund by adding small savings each month to create a buffer in case of unforeseen expenses. Aim to have 3-6 months’ worth of expenses saved for unexpected situations.
- Automate Finances: Set up automatic transfers to savings or debt payments to help keep your finances on track.
- Use Caution with AI Tools: While AI tools like ChatGPT can help you draft a sample budget or break down large goals into manageable steps, they should not replace thorough research or professional advice. Always double-check the information against trusted financial resources and remember that your personal circumstances may require a different approach. When in doubt, consult a financial advisor for tailored guidance.
This is the latest survey in FNBO’s Consumer Financial Trends series. For additional financial tips, visit the Cashology blog on FNBO’s website.
METHODOLOGY
This survey was conducted online using Suzy among a national sample of 1,000+ adults spanning across U.S. geographic regions and income levels. The survey sample was weighted to reflect the gender distribution and the age distribution across the 18-44 and 45+ age brackets in U.S. census data.
About FNBO
FNBO (First National Bank of Omaha), a subsidiary of First National of Nebraska, Inc. (FNNI), is one of the largest privately held banks in the US and has been in business for more than 165 years. FNNI and its affiliates have over $32 billion in assets and 4,500 employees. Primary banking offices are located in Nebraska, Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, South Dakota, Texas and Wyoming, providing personal and business banking, mortgage, payment solutions, wealth management and more. As the great big, small bank founded in 1857, FNBO has maintained its commitment to customers and helping build strong communities. Learn more at FNBO.com and connect on Facebook, X and Instagram. Member FDIC.
For information contact:
Sally Christensen
402-871-1933
schristensen@fnbo.com
