Americans Reveal the Biggest Financial Mistakes They 'Regret'

Overview

• A survey conducted by Talker Research for Newsweek reveals Americans' top financial regrets.
• Survey timeframe: April 11-17, 2025.
• Sample size: 1,000 Americans.

Key Financial Mistakes

1. Falling into Credit Card Debt

• Most common regret due to underestimated small purchases leading to large debts.

2. Not Saving Enough for Retirement

• Many wished they started saving earlier or regretted withdrawing from 401(k).

3. Buying Cars They Couldn't Afford

• Regret over financing expensive vehicles instead of investing in better assets.

4. Helping Others at Personal Expense

• Lending money to friends/family who didn’t repay was a common regret.

5. Overspending During Youth

• Regrets over unnecessary expenses like shopping sprees and partying.

6. Selling Investments Too Early

• Regrets about selling stocks prematurely during market dips.

7. Starting a Business Without a Plan

• Some regretted opening businesses without a solid plan.

8. Marriage and Divorce

• Financial setbacks due to marriage and especially divorce.

9. Investing Without Understanding

• Losses incurred from investments made without proper knowledge.

10. Not Having an Emergency Fund

• Lack of financial safety net led to struggles when unexpected expenses arose.

Unexpected Regrets

• Buying lottery tickets.
• Spending on ventures that didn’t pay off, like unused gym memberships.

Expert Advice

• Adem Selita, CEO of The Debt Relief Company, emphasizes finding balance in life to avoid financial mistakes.
• Advises against dwelling on regrets; instead, learn and prepare for the future.

Conclusion

• Regrets stem from common human tendencies, but they teach valuable lessons in financial management.
• Future preparedness and cautious financial planning are key to avoiding similar mistakes.

Survey Information

• Conducted by Talker Research, members of MRS and ESOMAR.