The start of a new year is the perfect time to hit “reset” on your goals, especially your financial ones.
Whether you're aiming to save more, reduce debt, or finally start that emergency fund, creating a plan now can set the tone for a financially healthy year ahead.
At NW Plus, we’re here to help our members build strong financial habits that last well beyond January. Here are seven simple, realistic financial goals to set to help kick off 2026 on the right foot.
1. Create (or Revisit) Your Budget
Think of your budget as your financial GPS: it helps you know where your money is going and keeps you on the right path. If you don’t already have one, start by tracking your income and expenses for one month.
Pro Tip: Use NW Plus online banking tools to categorize your spending and see where you can cut back.
2. Build an Emergency Fund
Life happens. Whether it’s a car repair, medical bill, or job loss, an emergency fund can give you peace of mind. Aim to save at least three to six months' worth of expenses over time.
Start small: Even setting aside $25–$50 a month into a dedicated savings account makes a difference.
3. Pay Down High-Interest Debt
Credit card debt can quietly drain your finances. Make a resolution to tackle high-interest balances first, or consider consolidating your debt into a lower-interest personal loan with NW Plus.
Snowball vs. Avalanche: Use the method that motivates you! Paying off the smallest balance first (snowball) can help you stay motivated when you succeed faster. Focusing on your highest interest rate (avalanche) can be effective in saving money on interest over time.
4. Automate Your Savings
Set it and forget it! Automating your savings is one of the easiest ways to build financial security. Schedule automatic transfers from checking to savings after each paycheck. Set up Debit Card Roundup to round up the change on purchases, and transfer it to your savings.
Bonus challenge: Set a specific savings goal - like $1,000 by summer - and track your progress monthly.
5. Check Your Credit Score
Your credit score affects everything from loan approvals to interest rates. Make it a habit to review your credit report annually for errors and opportunities to improve. You can check your score for free with Credit Sense through NW Plus digital banking.
NW Plus members can access financial counseling and resources to help boost credit health.
6. Review Your Subscriptions & Bills
Streaming services, gym memberships, delivery apps—small charges add up fast. Take a few minutes to review your automatic payments and cancel what you no longer use.
Look for hidden leaks: Many people find they’re paying for things they forgot about!
7. Set a Financial Goal That Matters to You
Whether it’s buying a home, starting a business, or saving for a family trip. Set at least one goal this year that excites you, and create a plan to achieve it.
We’re here to help: Talk to an NW Plus advisor about savings plans, loan options, or investment strategies that match your goals.
Start 2026 Strong with NW Plus
Whatever your financial goals are, the key is to start small and stay consistent. At NW Plus, our mission is to support your financial well-being through every season of life.
Let’s make 2026 your most financially empowered year yet!
Never share your account number, passwords, answers to security questions, or other account information. We will never ask you for this type of information when we call or email you. If someone claiming to be a NW Plus CU representative asks for sensitive account information over the phone or in an email, end the conversation immediately, and call us at 425.297.1000 or come to one of our branches to report the incident.