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NewsWFLA News TampaSeptember 6, 2026Hillsborough

LendingTree study finds 43% of Americans factor expected inheritance into retirement plans

A new study reveals that 43% of Americans include expected inheritances or financial gifts in their retirement strategies. Analysts warn that relying on these funds is risky due to unpredictable factors like health care costs, inflation, and changing estate plans.

retirement planninginheritancepersonal financewealth transfer
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Why It Matters

Many Americans are basing their long-term financial security on future transfers of wealth that may be significantly reduced by end-of-life expenses or market volatility.

Key Facts

  • 43% of survey respondents factor expected inheritances or financial gifts into their retirement planning.
  • One-third of Americans younger than 65 expect to receive an inheritance.
  • Expectations of receiving an inheritance are highest among individuals earning six-figure incomes.
  • Parents with children under 18 and Gen Z adults report higher-than-average expectations of receiving an inheritance.
  • 57% of Americans prefer to discuss inheritance plans with the person they expect to receive money from.
  • Fewer than 20% of those expecting an inheritance have not discussed the matter with the anticipated giver.
  • Analysts identify health care costs, long-term care, market fluctuations, and inflation as primary risks that can reduce the value of an estate before transfer.

Who's Mentioned

organizationLendingTree“The financial services company that conducted the research study.”organizationNewsNation“The news outlet reporting on the study.”personMatt Schulz“Chief consumer finance analyst at LendingTree.”