Now in its ninth year, FP Canada’s Financial Stress Index is a national survey that helps us better understand how Canadians feel about their finances. It explores the causes and impacts of financial stress, the actions Canadians are taking in response, and the role that Certified Financial Planner® professionals and Qualified Associate Financial Planner™ professionals play in helping people feel more confident about their money and build greater financial well-being.

 

 

Key Findings

  • Canadians are more likely to say money is the top source of stress in their life (43%), far more than health (21%), relationships (17%) and work (15%)  
  • More Canadians (85%) report taking steps to reduce their financial stress, up from 82 per cent in 2025  
  • Canadians who work with a financial professional, such as a CFP® professional or QAFP® professional, report lower levels of financial stress and greater confidence in their financial futures compared to those who do not 

 

 

See the Financial Stress Index results come to life by downloading the infographic.



Does This Sound Familiar?

Financial stress affects all Canadians. And while many factors play a role, the research shows that getting help from a financial planner can make a real difference. Working with a CFP professional or QAFP professional can assist in: 

  • Clarifying your financial goals 
  • Explaining what a financial plan is, and building one with you based on your income, expenses, savings and debt 
  • Preparing you for long-term goals such as retirement 

 

 

2026 Financial Stress Index Insights and Resources

Check out our helpful resources below.

Read Tips to Overcome Financial Regret

In her insightful article, Zena Amundsen, CFP, explores how financial regret doesn’t have to hold you back. It can actually help guide better decisions going forward.

Read the Article

See the Full Picture

See how the survey results tell a visual story by downloading the infographic.

Download the Infographic

Get the Whole Story

For an even deeper dive into the Financial Stress Index, read the press release.



View the Press Release


Discover More Insights About Managing Your Finances 

Browse our collection of articles by CFP professionals and QAFP professionals for more tips and insights on a wide range of financial topics.  

These articles are a good place to start: 

01 November, 2023
Financial Planning 101: The Basics
28 March, 2024
How to Optimize Your Tax Planning
25 November, 2025
Staying Financially Resilient During Challenging Times
17 February, 2026
The Reality of Being Part of the Sandwich Generation

 


Financial Planning Tips, Delivered Straight to Your Inbox 

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