Library of Congress Federal Credit Union

As 2025 winds down, now is the perfect time to pause, take a breath, and get financially ready for the year ahead. Think of it as housekeeping for your money, a quick refresh that can make a big difference in how confident and in control you feel heading into 2026.

Here’s your step-by-step financial refresh plan:

Check Your Credit Health

Think of your credit report as your financial pulse. Visit AnnualCreditReport.com for free copies from all three credit bureaus ( Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion). Look for anything unfamiliar or outdated. If you spot an error, file a dispute right away; those minor fixes can pay off big in better rates and smoother approvals.

Take Your Budget’s Temperature

Your 2025 budget might look very different from the one you started with, and that’s okay. Life changes, and your money plan should too. Review your spending over the past few months: what worked, what didn’t, and what surprised you. Adjust categories that no longer fit, and make sure your budget reflects how you actually live now.

Set a Few Smart Goals

Skip the generic resolutions. Instead, choose three specific goals for 2026, like paying off one credit card, saving three months of expenses, or increasing your retirement contribution by 1%. Write them down and give them timelines. A goal without a plan is just a wish.

Automate Your Good Habits

Automation is your best accountability partner. Set up automatic transfers to savings, schedule bill payments, and enroll in alerts to track balances or deposits. Small systems keep big goals on track, even when life gets busy.

Prepare for the Unexpected

Double-check your insurance coverage and emergency fund. If you’ve had any life changes this year, such as a new home, job, or family member, make sure your protection reflects your reality.

Give Yourself Credit for Progress

You don’t have to have it all figured out to be doing well. Every intentional step (reviewing, adjusting, saving) adds up to progress. Celebrate that momentum and carry it with you into 2026.

Start the new year with confidence. LCFCU’s online tools, calculators, financial planning and financial education & webinars resources are here to help you plan smarter, save more, and stress less. Explore our website to start your 2026 financial plan today.