New national survey shows consumers managing finances responsibly while postponing auto repairs, appliances, and medical care amid ongoing affordability strain
SALT LAKE CITY, February 18, 2026–(BUSINESS WIRE)–A new national consumer study from Snap Finance, a leading fintech platform that drives retailer growth by expanding consumer access to financing, finds that most U.S. households are responding to ongoing affordability pressure by delaying essential purchases and turning to financing options to manage cash flow.
According to Snap Finance’s latest consumer survey, Closing the Credit Gap: 2026 Outlook Study, conducted in December 2025 among more than 1,400 U.S. household financial decision-makers, 66% of respondents delayed a purchase or service costing $300 or more in 2025 due to their financial situation. The purchases delayed most often included auto repairs, major appliances, and medical and dental care. The rate rose to 86% among consumers with credit scores below 670 and 75% among Gen X households, underscoring how credit access shapes household decision-making.
Despite these challenges, most Americans report staying disciplined in how they manage their finances. While 72% of respondents said they handled their finances well in 2025, 62% reported living paycheck to paycheck, reflecting the limited flexibility many households have when essential expenses arise.
“These findings point to a widening gap between how consumers feel about their financial discipline and the flexibility they actually have when unexpected or essential expenses arise,” said Ted Saunders, CEO of Snap Finance. “Households are prioritizing responsibility, but the margin for error has become increasingly thin. For retailers, that gap shows up at checkout. The ability to offer flexible financing can determine whether essential purchases move forward or continue to be postponed.”
Financing remains a critical tool for consumers navigating this environment. In 2025, 51% of respondents applied for new financing to cover major purchases, reflecting a growing need for accessible payment options beyond traditional credit.
“What stands out in this data is not reckless borrowing, but selective, purpose-driven use of financing options by credit-challenged consumers,” said Rob Brown, Vice President of Research and Insights at Snap Finance. “Consumers are delaying purchases for both needs and wants, but they often turn to financing for essential expenses like auto repairs and appliances.”
Looking ahead, respondents expressed cautious optimism about 2026. Fifty-three percent expect their financial situation to improve, while 43% anticipate relying more on credit or financing in 2026 to make ends meet. Inflation remains the dominant concern, cited by 67% of respondents, followed by worries about unexpected expenses at 48% and potential job loss at 44%.