Financial habits to adopt in 2026

2026 is in full swing, and starting the year with smart financial habits can set the tone for the months and years ahead. January is the perfect time to be proactive, and we're here to support you with a few simple ways to strengthen your financial health. 
 

1. Automate bills and savings - Set up automatic transfers for savings and monthly payments to ensure you never miss a bill and to help your money grow effortlessly. Automation removes the temptation to spend first and makes staying on track easier. You can manage automatic payments anytime through Online & Mobile Banking*.
2. Invest in your future - No matter where you are in life, it's never too early or too late to start saving for retirement. Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) are a smart tool for building long-term security. At Abound, we offer both Traditional and Roth IRAs. With a Traditional IRA, contribuitions may be tax-deductible, and you pay taxes when you withdraw funds in retirement.1. 
3. Track your spending - Keeping an eye on your spending is one of the most effective ways to stay aligned with your budget. Review transactions in Online & Mobile Banking or look over your montly statements to understand your habits and recurring payments. Identify places to cut back, cancel unused subscriptions and reallocate funds towards savings goals. This helps you stay accountable and also safeguards your account from fraudulent activity. 
4. Boost your credit - A healthy credit score opens the door to better financial opportunities, including lower interest rates and higher approval odds for loans. Always make on-time payments and aim to keep your credit utilization under 30%. Our Savvy Money service through Online & Mobile Banking makes it easy to stay informed. This free Member benefit provides 24/7 access to your credit score, real-time alerts for changes in your report and helpful credit education and resources. 

By taking charge of your finances today, you are building a clear path toward long-term finacial freedom.