Americans are reporting concern about how financially protected their families are, according to a new survey of over 1,000 adults aged 30 and older conducted by Ipsos Public Affairs. The survey was released today and sponsored by New York Life Insurance Company. 

Thinking about any savings accounts, emergency funds, or life insurance coverage they may have, the majority, 53%, report that they are financially under-protected, with one in five (19%) believing they are severely under-protected. Just 46% describe their family as being protected when it comes to their finances, the survey revealed.

"The survey reinforces what our agents are hearing in their communities: Significant numbers of Americans are concerned that their financial resources are not adequate to meet both the challenges of today's economy and their future obligations, whether that's paying for their children's educations or their own retirements," said Mark Pfaff, executive vice president in charge of U.S. Life Insurance & Agency, New York Life. "This is where knowledgeable advisors can make an enormous difference by helping people plan ahead."