Phil is pretty masterful and making it seem like he needs the money. His method is to switch up the dangling carrot every once in a while. That way the Jezels and such fall for it. He makes make it seem like they're solving Phil's problems because look, this issue is solved! But he just replaces it with a new issue that pops up. He doesn't extend an issue too long because then fans feel they're not making a difference and they feel no matter what it's not gonna help. The issue comes up, issue solved, issue comes up method however makes them feel that way. It's just bad luck and Phil being screwed over that there's another issue! It's always an issue that requires money too. Like can you name a personal issue of Phil's thats popped up that wasn't the Leanna break up and wasn't money related?
I believe his issues are real but he overplays them. He uses them to his advantage. He deliberately panic modes and makes it seem like the worst thing ever. BUT they are real, so when he's questioned about he he can be like "Look its a real issue" and TECHNICALLY he's right, but it's not as bad as he makes it out to be. He just uses that negative situation as his next excuse to rake in money, using it to his advantage.