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Six-In-Ten Workers Live Paycheck To Paycheck, Survey Finds

Expert offers tips for making ends meet in tough times

By James Limbach
ConsumerAffairs.com

September 19, 2009

As the economic downturn trudges on, many workers are struggling with household budgets. Six-in-ten (61 percent) workers report they always or usually live paycheck to paycheck just to make ends meet, compared with 49 percent last year and 43 percent in 2007, according to a new nationwide survey of more than 4,400 workers by CareerBuilder. Three-in-ten (30 percent) workers with salaries of $100,000 or more report that they too live paycheck to paycheck, versus 21 percent in 2008.

Some workers are making ends meet by dipping into their long-term savings. More than one-in-five (21 percent) workers say they have reduced their 401(k) contributions or personal savings in the last six months to get by. Looking at workers earning six figures or more, a nearly equal number (23 percent) report that they have also reduced their 401(k) or savings.

While some workers are tapping into their long-term accounts, others are having a hard time saving anything at all. More than one-third (36 percent) of workers say they do not participate in any programs such as 401(k), IRAs or retirement plans, compared with 31 percent in 2008. In addition, one-third (33 percent) report that they don't put any money aside into their savings each month, while 30 percent set aside $100 or less per month for savings and 16 percent save less than $50.

"Workers are employing a variety of tactics to help make ends meet in this economy," said Rosemary Haefner, vice president of human resources for CareerBuilder. "Whether it's by keeping a tighter budget, finding ways to bring in additional income or adjusting their savings strategies, workers are doing their best to weather the current storm. These good financial habits will not only help workers in the short-term, but better position them for the future."

Haefner offers the following tips for riding out the economic downturn and preparing for the future:

• Keep track of spending -- Create a spreadsheet to analyze what you spend each month, including the money spent on those inevitable invisible expenses, such as a morning coffee, cab ride or afternoon snack. Once you can see where your money goes, you can clearly see where you can cut back.

• Boost your income -- One-in-ten workers report taking on a second job in this economy to help make ends meet. Ask yourself if this is something you can handle on top of your current job and then pursue some viable options.

• Speak up -- Talk to your HR department and see what is available to help you save on your monthly expenses. Even though times are tough, companies are still offering flexible spending accounts, wellness benefits, retail discounts, transit reimbursement and more.

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