Solo Americans feel confident about money, but worry about aging alone

By AI, Created 9:50 PM UTC, May 19, 2026, /AGP/ – Ameriprise Financial’s new Flying Solo study finds financially solo Americans are proud of how they manage money, even as many face gaps in estate planning and long-term care preparation. The research points to a growing need for support as 46% of U.S. adults manage finances on their own.

Why it matters: - Financially solo adults are a growing share of U.S. households, and the study suggests many have day-to-day confidence but weaker long-term planning. - The biggest risks are tied to aging alone, including savings shortfalls, care costs and becoming a burden on others. - The findings point to a need for more guidance on wills, retirement readiness and contingency planning.

What happened: - Ameriprise Financial released its new “Flying Solo: Navigating Financial Autonomy” study on May 19, 2026. - The research examines how single, divorced and widowed Americans balance financial independence with future planning. - Ameriprise Financial said the study challenges the idea that solo adults are less secure or less able to build wealth.

The details: - Nearly half of U.S. adults, 46%, are managing finances on their own, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. - Only 37% of solo adults have an updated formal will. - The top concerns among solo adults are running out of savings at 43%, affording long-term care at 42% and becoming a burden on others at 41%. - Deana Healy, CFP®, vice president of financial planning and advice at Ameriprise Financial, shared practical strategies for helping financially solo adults strengthen long-term plans. - Ameriprise Financial directed readers to more information. - Ameriprise Financial also listed social links on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.

Between the lines: - The study suggests confidence in managing money today does not necessarily translate into readiness for later-life expenses. - Low will completion rates and worry about long-term care point to planning gaps that can become more costly over time. - The research also reflects a broader shift: more Americans are handling finances without a partner or shared household income.

What’s next: - Ameriprise Financial is positioning Deana Healy’s guidance as a roadmap for solo adults looking to firm up future plans. - The study’s themes suggest more demand for advice on estate planning, health-care costs and income protection. - Solo adults who have not updated wills or long-term plans may face pressure to act sooner rather than later.