Proven Money-Saving Strategies To Start 2026 With
Written by
Cindy Lamothe
Edited by
Amen Oyiboke
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As a new year rolls in, it’s the perfect time to hit refresh on your finances.
Whether you’re saving for a big goal, trying to cut back on mindless spending, or just want to feel a little more in control of your money, small changes can make a big difference.
“As 2026 approaches, people need more than basic financial advice; they need smart, achievable financial solutions to protect their money in an unpredictable market,” said Luc Gueriane, CEO of Moorwand.
To help you kick off the new year on the right financial foot, here are some proven, practical money-saving strategies that actually work — no extreme budgeting or skipping your morning coffee required.
Automate Better
“Savings are sometimes overlooked while automating expenditures,” said Gueriane. He recommended transferring money to a high-yield savings account every payday. “It teaches discipline without effort and ensures you never lose money.”
According to Harvard Federal Credit Union, automating helps reduce financial stress. Beyond just saving, automation can also help you stay on top of bills, investments, and even debt payments.
Setting up recurring transfers and payments means you’re less likely to miss due dates or spend what you meant to save.
Think of it as putting your finances on autopilot — one less thing to stress about, and a simple way to build good habits without having to think about them every week.
Verify Memberships Quarterly
According to Gueriane, apps, streaming, and software are minor costs that drain customers.
“Assessing them every three months can save hundreds of dollars a year.”
It’s easy to forget about that extra subscription you signed up for months ago –especially when it’s only a few dollars here and there.
But those small charges can quietly pile up. Taking a few minutes each quarter to scan your bank or credit card statements helps you spot anything you no longer use or need.
Early Lock-In Reduces Fixed Costs
Gueriane also suggested that before the mid-2026 rate hike, you should evaluate phone, insurance, and utility contracts. “Negotiating or switching suppliers lets you stick to a monthly budget.”
Reviewing your fixed expenses ahead of time can help you avoid getting caught off guard by rising rates. If your current provider offers a chance to lock in a lower rate or a fixed-term plan, it might be worth taking.
Invest Carefully
“Do not follow trends. Take advantage of employer retirement matching and long-term, diversified investments. Most individuals ignore this free money,” said Gueriane.
To be financially healthy in 2026, he said, be intentional rather than cut every expense.
No job should be “just sitting there,” and every dollar should be spent.
Being smart with your investments doesn’t mean chasing the hottest stock or crypto tip — it means setting up a plan that works for your goals and sticking with it.
Make sure your money is working as hard as you are, whether that’s through a 401(k) match, index funds, or other long-term options that grow steadily over time.
The key is consistency, not timing.
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