Federal Workers Say Finances Are Top Daily Stressor

A new survey shows that about 4 in 5 (78%) federal workers say finances are one of their top day-to-day stressors with 32% saying finances are their top stressor.

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More than half (56%) of federal workers say that in the past year they’ve had to cut back on expenses while 33% have had difficulty paying bills and 29% had to borrow money from friends or family.

How Financial Stress Hurts Productivity

Financial stress directly affects ability to perform, draining workers’ motivation, and even pushing them to look for new jobs. The pressure to make ends meet is creating a productivity crisis, and it's clear that financial wellness is now a key issue for every federal workplace.

43% say their level of financial stress impacts their ability to do their job.

30% say the financial stress has led to a lack of motivation at work.

26% say the stress caused them to start looking for a new job.

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Infographic with four circles showing statistics about On-Demand Pay for federal workers, including impacts on bill payments, financial stability, stress, and mental health.

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Survey Methodology

Talker Research surveyed 500 federal workers. The survey was commissioned by DailyPay and administered and conducted online by Talker Research between Aug. 12 and Aug. 21, 2025.

The DailyPay Solution

DailyPay’s On-Demand Pay Platform boosts employee financial wellness and keeps them more engaged, motivated and happier at work. For employers, this translates to improved retention and increased productivity.