I Asked ChatGPT What a 2026 Budget Needs To Lose First in a Recession
Written by
Nicole Spector
Edited by
Jenna Klaverweiden
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Will there be a recession in 2026? It’s incredibly hard for economists to say yes or no, and usually, some predict there will be one while others say “not so fast.” We should take whatever the experts say with a heaping tablespoon of salt, and, at the same time, always be prepared for the worst — even when the economic forecast looks sunny.
So let’s just pretend that we know there will be a recession this year. What purchases should we immediately cut once we see a definitive economic downturn? GOBankingRates asked the infinitely informative ChatGPT what a 2026 budget needs to lose first in a recession. Here’s what it said.
Subscriptions You Barely Use
The vast majority (91%, according to data from Parks Associates) of U.S. internet households subscribe to at least one streaming video service. You may heavily use your Netflix or HBO Max account, and if you do, you don’t necessarily need to put it on the chopping board, but what about other subscription services? Like subscriptions with companies that provide meal-kits such as HelloFresh, or gym memberships? These may “feel” essential, but they usually aren’t — especially if they often go to waste.
“Streaming, apps, memberships and boxes quietly drain cash every month,” ChatGPT wrote. “In a recession, predictable savings matter more than occasional convenience.”
ChatGPT recommended ditching the following in a recession:
- Duplicate streaming services
- Premium app tiers
- Unused gym or club memberships.
Will you even miss these pricey services? Possibly not.
Default Dining Out
Too tired to cook? Feeling like you need a little TLC via an out-of-the-house culinary experience? We hear you. Dining out is a refreshing break from the often not very exciting routine of daily life. So is ordering takeout and delivery. If you can afford this excursion, great — but are you indulging too often? In a recession, you’re going to want to cut back significantly.
“Restaurants, delivery and takeout inflate food spending fast,” ChatGPT said. “When income feels uncertain, flexibility beats convenience.”
ChatGPT recommended putting a stop to the following in a recession:
- Habitual lunches out
- Impulse delivery
- Weekly dining out.
Opt for “intentional, planned” meals out on occasion, provided you can comfortably afford them.
‘Upgrade Culture’ Purchases
ChatGPT said to crop “upgrade culture” purchases from your recession budget. What exactly are these? Think “lifestyle inflation” buys like the latest iPhone or new designer looks. There’s no reason to buy shiny new things if what you have suffices.
ChatGPT recommended passing on these items:
- New phones
- A new car
- New clothes
- New gadgets.
Not only are these not essentials, but they usually depreciate, meaning resale value plunges fast — especially in a recession when more people are selling their stuff to make an extra buck.
Luxury Versions of Essentials
This somewhat ties into the category of “upgrade culture purchases.” ChatGPT recommended skipping buying the highest-grade version of essentials.
Here are some examples of what to eliminate:
- Premium gasoline (unless your vehicle needs it to run optimally)
- Brand-name groceries
- High-end personal care items/services.
Some of these budgetary cuts may be slightly uncomfortable, but you probably won’t feel the burn for long. And you’ll feel much better sparing expenses so that you can keep a plush emergency fund (aim for at least six months’ worth of living expenses), maintain retirement contributions and know that you’re doing your best to weather the storm.
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