Plan Your 2026 Finances
Do This, Not That: Plan Your 2026 Finances with Ease
Small changes can make a big difference in your overall financial wellness.
According to a recent WalletHub survey, nearly 3 in 4 people say their financial situation has an impact on their mental well-being. Taking small, actionable steps to feel more in control of your finances can positively impact your financial wellbeing.
Do This: Review your spending patterns
Not That: Start with a strict budget
Take a week to observe how you actually spend. Look at your bank statements and credit card bills to spot patterns. Are subscriptions you no longer use still draining your account? Are grocery runs adding up to more than you realize?
When you understand where your money is really going, you can make small, realistic adjustments – like shopping for generic brands or switching streaming services seasonally. Real progress beats rigid plans every time.
Do This: Automate what you can
Not That: Rely on willpower to save
If you have ever meant to transfer money into savings but forgot (again), automation can save you from yourself. Schedule automatic transfers to savings on payday, set up direct deposit to savings, or set up autopay for bills to avoid late fees.
This trick works because it removes temptation and decision fatigue – two major barriers to saving consistently. Even a small automatic transfer adds up over time. Think of it as paying your future-self first.
Do This: Build an emergency fund
Not That: Wait until you can save “enough”
A full emergency fund (three to six months of expenses) sounds great on paper and can feel impossible when money is tight. Start smaller. Even $20 a week builds momentum. Keep it in an easy-access account, separate from other money, so it does not get mixed with daily spending.
This cushion helps protect you from unexpected costs – a car repair, a surprise bill, or even a missed paycheck – and gives you confidence that you can handle what comes your way.
Do This: Plan for joy – not just bills
Not That: Treat fun as “extra” or “unnecessary”
Your budget should not just be about survival. Planning ahead for things that bring you joy, like a family outing, a weekend getaway, or even a nice meal out, keeps your financial plan sustainable. When you budget for joy and happiness, you are less likely to fall into guilt spending or burnout later.
Do This: Check your credit and debt picture
Not That: Avoid it because it feels stressful
It is tempting to look away from debt; however, facing it head-on is the first step to taking control. Pull your free credit report at AnnualCreditReport.com and review all your balances, interest rates, and due dates. UECU members have access to SavvyMoney Credit Score to view their credit score and full credit report. The service is free and available within UECU Online and Mobile Banking.
Focus on paying off the smallest balance first (the “snowball” method) to build momentum or tackle the highest-interest debt first (the “avalanche” method) to save money over time. Consider debt consolidation to lower interest rates and pay off debt sooner with one simple payment. Speak with a UECU Financial Services Consultant to discuss potential debt consolidation options. Call 800-288-6423, ext. 4001 to get started or visit UECU.org/debtconsolidation to learn more.
Do This: Seek trusted support
Not That: Navigate your finances alone
You do not have to have every answer to feel financially confident. Your financial institution offers budgeting tools, workshops, or savings programs to help you get started.
UECU members can receive free financial education and counseling services through GreenPath Financial Wellness, a nonprofit organization. A financial counselor will help you create a budget, review your credit report, and discuss debt repayment options. Get started at GreenPath.com/UECU or call 877-337-3399. The call is free and confidential.
