WealthWave survey finds most women fear outliving their money

By AI, Created 4:06 PM UTC, June 03, 2026, /AGP/ – A new nationwide WealthWave survey of 601 women finds many are financially engaged but still worry about running out of money, retiring comfortably and missing opportunities to build wealth. The results point to a gap between women’s day-to-day money management and the guidance they want for long-term financial confidence.

Why it matters: - The survey suggests many women are already involved in financial decisions but still feel under-equipped to build lasting wealth. - That gap matters because fear of running out of money can shape saving, investing and retirement decisions for years. - The findings also suggest demand for clearer financial education at a time of higher living costs and broader economic uncertainty.

What happened: - WealthWave released the WealthWave Women’s Survey 2026: The State of Women & Money, based on responses from 601 women across the United States. - The survey found only 1 in 4 women feel confident and in control of their finances. - 34% said running out of money is their top concern. - 29% said their top worry is not retiring comfortably. - 40% regretted not saving or investing sooner. - Nearly two-thirds said they wish they had started earlier or understood money better. - 1 in 3 said building wealth is their top priority. - Nearly one-third said they want to better understand how to make their money work for them, making that the top requested area of financial education. - The full report is available here.

The details: - The survey was conducted in April 2026. - WealthWave used a 10-question online survey focused on financial concerns, past decisions and future aspirations when money is no longer the primary constraint. - Nearly half of women said they lead or co-lead financial decisions in their households. - Another quarter said they have taken on greater responsibility as they seek more education and confidence. - Many respondents described themselves as actively trying to build wealth, manage debt and improve cash flow. - Asked what they would do if money were no longer a constraint, top responses included spending more time with family, improving health, traveling and giving back. - The results suggest many women see wealth as a tool for a more meaningful life, not just a financial target.

Between the lines: - The survey points to a mismatch between financial engagement and access to practical guidance. - Kim Scouller, Certified Financial Educator and executive marketing director at WealthWave, said: “The issue isn’t motivation. It’s access.” - Scouller said women are making financial decisions every day, but too many are doing so without the clarity and guidance needed to build lasting wealth. - The findings also suggest many women want education that is simple, trustworthy and useful for real-world decisions.

What’s next: - WealthWave says closing the gap requires broader access to financial education that simplifies complex topics and supports decision-making. - Without that support, WealthWave said many women may remain engaged but under-equipped to reach their financial goals. - The company is positioning education as the next step for women who already want to take greater control of their money.

The bottom line: - Women are not stepping away from money management. The survey says they are asking for better tools to turn that engagement into long-term security and wealth.