The Role of Emergency Savings in Family Financial Security

Americans overwhelmingly say they prefer financial stability over economic mobility. However, recent Pew research suggests that such security is elusive: Even the best-off households find their finances strained when they experience a financial shock such as a major car or home repair or a loss of income.

In a series of three issue briefs to be released over the coming weeks, Pew shows the extent to which households are financially vulnerable when faced with a financial shock. The briefs provide insight into the financial risks that Americans face and the impact of shocks on family balance sheets; households’ level of preparation to address emergency needs; and the implications of families’ savings behavior for policymakers as they work to create solutions that support Americans’ financial security.

To learn more about emergency savings, click the icons below.

1x1placeholder

How Do Families Cope With Financial Shocks?

Learn More
Quick View

How Do Families Cope With Financial Shocks?

Unexpected expenses or losses of income can create significant pressure, even for the economically fortunate.

Learn More
1x1placeholder

What Resources Do Families Have for Financial Emergencies?

Learn more
Quick View

What Resources Do Families Have for Financial Emergencies?

Families that lack a savings cushion are apt to face greater difficulty in coping with unexpected financial setbacks. This brief examines the state of Americans’ emergency savings as a first line of financial defense.

Learn more
1x1placeholder

Barriers to Saving and Policy Opportunities

Learn More
Quick View

Barriers to Saving and Policy Opportunities

This brief explores how Americans think about saving and how policymakers can help families better prepare for financial challenges.

Learn More
America’s Overdose Crisis
America’s Overdose Crisis

America’s Overdose Crisis

Sign up for our five-email course explaining the overdose crisis in America, the state of treatment access, and ways to improve care

Sign up
Quick View

America’s Overdose Crisis

Sign up for our five-email course explaining the overdose crisis in America, the state of treatment access, and ways to improve care

Sign up
Article

37 Scientists Pioneering the Future of Biomedical Research

Quick View
Article

Biomedical researchers are at the heart of nearly every medical advancement. From cutting-edge cancer treatments to breakthrough discoveries about emerging viruses, these scientists use creativity and ingenuity to explore new horizons in human health and medicine. And for nearly 40 years, The Pew Charitable Trusts has supported more than 1,000 early-career researchers committed to this work.

Composite image of modern city network communication concept

Learn the Basics of Broadband from Our Limited Series

Sign up for our four-week email course on Broadband Basics

Quick View

How does broadband internet reach our homes, phones, and tablets? What kind of infrastructure connects us all together? What are the major barriers to broadband access for American communities?