Arizona Tribune - 7 Financial New Year's Resolutions for 2026

1. Consolidate debt

If you have several debts, it might make sense to consolidate them. Through debt consolidation, you can roll all your debts into a single account with one monthly payment and due date. You'll be able to streamline the payoff process and potentially save a significant amount of money on interest.

2. Create a budget

A budget is a spending plan based on your income and expenses. With a realistic budget, you can ensure you have enough funds for your expenses and various financial goals. While there are a number of budget approaches out there, the pay-yourself-first budget, zero-sum budget, and 50/30/20 tend to be very effective.

3. Build an emergency fund

The reality is that a financial emergency can pop up when you least expect it. If you take the time to save for car repairs, medical bills, and other unforeseen expenses, you can avoid debt and keep your budget in check. While the ideal emergency fund depends on your unique situation, many financial experts recommend you save three to six months' worth of expenses in a high-yield savings account.

4. Invest for retirement

Chances are you want to leave the workforce someday. By investing today, you can turn your dream of a future retirement into a reality. If you work for an employer who offers a 401(K) or 403(B) plan, be sure to take advantage of it, especially if they offer a match. Other examples of retirement savings accounts that are particularly good options if you're self-employed include IRAs and Solo 401(K)s.

5. Improve your credit score

Your credit score is a three-digit number that indicates how likely you are to repay debt. A higher credit score is important as it can open the doors to better interest rates and terms on loans, credit cards, and other financial products. To increase your score, pay your bills on time, reduce your debt, and keep old accounts open. You can check your score through your credit card company or an online credit monitoring tool.

6. Set financial goals

Maybe you want to buy a house someday. Or perhaps you'd like to pay off debt, cover your children's college education, remodel your kitchen, or go on a dream vacation. Take the time to think about what you hope to accomplish financially in 2026 and beyond. Once you zero in on your financial goals, come up with a savings plan that will help you achieve them.

7. Prioritize your health

When you make it a priority to eat healthy, exercise, and visit the doctor for routine checkups in the new year, it puts you in the right mindset for financial wellness. Also, you can save money in the long run. Healthcare expenses can add up quickly, even if you have a good insurance plan. In addition to making healthy lifestyle choices, it's a good idea to review your current health insurance plan to determine if it will still work for you and get a good grasp on your deductible and other policy terms.With these financial resolutions, you'll be able to begin the New Year on the right foot. As long as you're persistent and patient, you can thrive financially in 2026 and beyond.

CONTACT:

Sonakshi Murze
Manager
[email protected]

SOURCE: Oportun

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