Library of Congress Federal Credit Union

Planning for 2026 Milestones

There’s something powerful about a fresh start. A new calendar year can spark big plans, especially when it comes to your money.

Maybe 2026 is the year you’ll finally get the keys to your first home. Or say goodbye to student loans. Maybe it’s a wedding, a growing family, or a long-awaited dream you’ve been working toward.

Whatever milestone is ahead, LCFCU is here to help you plan for it, on your timeline and your terms.

Thinking About Buying a Home?

Homeownership can feel like a huge leap, but it starts with simple habits. Build a strong foundation for a down payment and a clean credit profile

• Start a dedicated savings account for your down payment.
• Set a monthly goal and automate your transfers
• Know your credit score and take steps to boost it if needed. This can save you thousands in the long run.
• Talk to a trusted lender early. LCFCU can help you understand what you can afford before you start house-hunting.
  

Paying Off Student Loans?

Whether you’ve just graduated or have been chipping away for years, this is your moment to get strategic. Build a payoff plan that works with your lifestyle

• Round up your payments or go biweekly if you can
• If eligible, explore income-driven repayment plans or forgiveness options
• Set a “debt-free date” and track your wins
  

Planning a Wedding or Welcoming a Baby?

Big life moments come with big feelings, and both can sneak up on your wallet if you’re not careful. Here’s how to prep with peace of mind.

• Set boundaries early for what matters, and what doesn’t
• Use our budgeting tools to track every vendor or baby-related cost
• Open a milestone-specific savings account (yes, name it!)
• Don’t forget: We offer low-rate personal loans and family-friendly financial coaching

If you’re expanding your family, consider setting up or contributing to an emergency fund, and looking into life insurance and early savings tools like 529 plans.

Final Thoughts: Start Small, Stay Consistent

Financial milestones don’t require perfection; they just need a plan and a little consistency. Your goals don’t have to be big to be meaningful, and they don’t have to be fully funded by February. The power is in starting. The earlier you start, the more options you’ll have when the time comes to say “yes” to that next big step.

From personalized savings strategies to loan guidance and financial wellness tools, we’re here to support your goals, whatever they may be. Let’s talk about what 2026 looks like for you. Explore our website, contact us or stop by a branch. We’d love to help you plan what’s next.