NerdWallet August Financial Resilience Index slips to 62.1 as recession fears rise to 64%

NerdWallet’s August 2026 Financial Resilience Index slipped to 62.1 from July’s record 63.1 as recession expectations rose.

• Recession outlook increased to 64% from 60%, despite 79% expecting to pay all bills on time this month.
• Reliance on credit climbed to 36% from 33%, pointing to tighter household cash-flow management.
• Cash buffers improved, with 67% able to cover a $1,000 surprise expense, up from 65%.
• The generational split widened: baby boomers scored 72.5; Gen Z scored 53.8, with 72% expecting a recession.