The start of a new year is full of possibilities! Resolutions are exciting, but keeping them going can be tough. While we can't plan your workouts or help you meal prep more, we can help with one resolution that makes a big impact: getting your family's finances on track.
Long-term planning isn't always easy. In Finding Balance in Savings, Chief Financial Officer Chris Cooper noted that 49% of Americans couldn't cover a $1,000 emergency with cash alone—a reminder that life moves quickly, and access to money matters.
If your 2026 resolution is to help your family unlock the full potential of your budget, you're in the right place. Here are some approachable, creative tips to get you started.
1. Refresh Your Budget for 2026 Financial Goals
The budget you followed last year may not work for your family this year. Maybe someone got a promotion at work or you have new monthly payments for the family car you bought. New income and expenses need to be accounted for in 2026’s budget to avoid financial pitfalls.
This is also the time to think about new goals. Is 2026 the year you finally pay off a big debt? Or have you been dreaming of taking the kids somewhere warm for the holidays? Whatever you’re working towards, add it into your planning!
2. Check on Your Emergency Fund
Financial experts recommend keeping enough savings to cover 3 to 6 months of living expenses to help you manage unexpected events like job loss, car repairs or medical emergencies. Take a moment to review your savings and develop a plan to meet this goal.
3. Check Your Credit Health
Your credit score impacts everything from loans, apartment rentals and even job opportunities. If it needs a boost, come up with a plan to pay bills on time and chip away at debt.
4. Review Your Insurance Coverage
Review all of your policies- health, life, auto, home and more- to make sure they still meet your family's needs, and confirm that you're insured against any losses you can't handle.
If you're shopping for a new policy, we can help! Get a quote or schedule an appointment with an Apple FCU insurance advisor today.
5. Update Beneficiaries and Estate Documents
Review your life insurance policy, will and power of attorney to ensure that your assets and your family's way of life are preserved in the event of your death. If you don't have a will, check out this guide for writing a will in 10 steps.
Need help exploring your insurance options? Click here to let us help you choose the best one for you.
6. Automate Your Bills
Automating bills, savings contributions and other recurring payments ensures your money goes where it needs to without the stress. Plus, automated payments can boost your credit score by keeping bills paid on time.
7. Now That You're an Expert, Teach Your Kids
Financial education starts early and grows with every stage of life. As a parent, guardian or mentor, you're shaping a child's lifelong relationship with money.
Get your kids involved in your 2026 financial refresh to teach them the value of money and how it's managed. For more tips and tools, visit our Family page to learn how to talk about money at every age.
Feel ready to take on the new year? Resolutions are a challenge, but celebrate your progress along the way to keep it fun. With a little effort each day, your family can accomplish all your 2026 financial goals and set even bigger ones in the years to come! Download and print this checklist for a handy reminder all year long.
