"Moneymaxxing," a social-media trend focused on getting more value from your money, is gaining attention as consumers look for ways to strengthen their financial footing.

The trend encourages people to cut recurring expenses, redeem rewards points, earn interest on savings and build better everyday financial habits, according to a CNBC report published Saturday. Financial experts say the approach may have staying power as consumers face an affordability crunch.

From Frugality to Financial Strategy

Winnie Sun, co-founder and managing director of Sun Group Wealth Partners, described moneymaxxing as a "cultural shift" toward being proactive, resourceful and creative with money. Brad Klontz, a psychologist and certified financial planner, called it "frugality made cool again."

The idea also challenges the notion that financial discipline means avoiding spending altogether. Personal finance personality Ramit Sethi has argued that people often view spending money as inherently bad, when consumers should instead spend intentionally on things they value if they can afford them.

The trend comes as younger Americans face difficulties becoming financially independent. More than half of Millennials and 72% of Gen Zers still rely on their parents for financial support, according to Northwestern Mutual’s 2026 Planning and Progress Study. Young adults now expect to become financially independent at an average age of 37.

The financial pressure facing younger Americans has also pushed some toward faster, riskier ways of trying to catch up.

Northwestern Mutual’s 2026 Planning & Progress Study found that among Gen Z and Millennials who are investing in or considering high-risk/speculative assets, 80% and 75%, respectively, say they feel financially behind and believe those options offer a faster path to their goals.

Debt can also make it harder for consumers to build wealth. Personal finance expert Dave Ramsey has argued that money directed toward debt payments can instead be money that could otherwise go toward building financial security and wealth.

Building Better Money Habits

Jack Howard, head of money wellness and a behavioral finance expert at Ally Bank, said moneymaxxing focuses on creating everyday habits that support long-term financial success. She recommends starting with a clear assessment of income and recurring expenses, then identifying spending patterns that no longer support financial goals.

Consumers can then set specific financial priorities, such as reducing debt or building a savings cushion. Automating transfers into savings or making additional payments toward outstanding balances can also help maintain those habits, Howard said.

Sun said AI-powered budgeting and financial-planning tools can also help identify spending patterns, find potential savings opportunities and suggest strategies tailored to individual goals. Klontz recommended curating social-media feeds around people with similar financial aspirations to provide ideas and accountability.

Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

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