According to the 2024 “Getting Paid In America” survey conducted by PayrollOrg (PAYO), a staggering 77% of American workers would face financial difficulty if their paycheck were delayed by just one week. This marks a slight decrease from the previous year’s survey, where 78% reported living paycheck to paycheck.
Survey Findings
The annual survey asked respondents how challenging it would be to meet their financial obligations in the event of a paycheck delay. Of the 36,729 individuals who answered, 28,375 respondents (77%) indicated they would find it somewhat or very difficult to manage their financial commitments.
“With over 70% of employees struggling to make ends meet if a paycheck is delayed, it’s crucial for organizations to ensure timely and accurate payroll and to consider implementing programs that expedite wage access,” stated Peter Klukken, head of Money Network at Fiserv. “Investing in payroll solutions that enhance financial benefits will aid organizations in attracting and retaining top talent in a competitive hiring landscape.”
Demand for Earned Wage Access
The survey also revealed that 34% of respondents want earlier access to their wages, a figure that remains consistent with the previous year. This ongoing demand highlights the importance of flexible wage options in today’s workforce.
“Timely access to pay and benefits is a significant concern for American workers. This year’s survey reinforces the notion that wages and benefits—especially voluntary lifestyle benefits like earned wage access—are essential for attracting and retaining an engaged workforce. This will continue to be a focal point for businesses of all sizes,” said Tom Hammond, Vice President of Strategy, Partnership, and Business Development at Paychex.
Resources for Employees
PayrollOrg’s National Payroll Week website offers educational resources to help employees maximize their earnings, boost take-home pay, and enhance savings through strategic payroll adjustments.
The “Getting Paid In America” survey coincided with PayrollOrg’s annual public awareness campaign during National Payroll Week, held from September 2 – 6, gathering insights from over 38,600 respondents.
