As the year comes to a close, now is the perfect time to pause, review your finances, and put a plan in place for a strong start to 2026. A thoughtful year-end checkup helps you understand where your money went this year, what adjustments may be needed, and how to align your daily habits with your long-term goals.

This checklist is designed to help you close out 2025 with clarity and begin the new year feeling organized, confident, and in control of your financial future.

1. Review Your 2025 Spending and Saving Patterns

Start by taking a close look at your bank statements, credit card activity, and savings contributions from the past year. Consider:

  • Where is most of your money going?
  • Are there recurring expenses you no longer use?
  • Did you meet the savings goals you set for yourself?

This reflection isn’t about perfection—it’s about understanding your habits and identifying opportunities for growth in 2026.

2. Revisit Your Financial Goals

Your goals may have evolved this year, and your financial plan should evolve with them. Whether you’re saving for a home, building an emergency fund, tackling debt, or preparing for retirement, take time to reassess what matters most.

Ask yourself:

  • What financial milestones do I want to reach in 2026?
  • Are my current accounts and savings rates aligned with those goals?
  • Does my budget reflect what’s truly important to me?

Setting or refining your goals now creates a strong foundation for the year ahead.

3. Check Your Emergency Fund

Life is unpredictable, which is why an emergency fund remains one of the most essential components of financial wellness.

Review your current balance and determine whether it still fits your needs. Many individuals aim for three to six months of essential expenses, but your ideal amount may vary based on your lifestyle and comfort level.

If you’re not where you want to be yet, consider automating a monthly contribution starting in January.

4. Evaluate Your Debt and Repayment Strategy

Take inventory of any outstanding loans or credit card balances. Understanding your current debt load helps you choose the most effective repayment approach, whether that means:

  • Prioritizing the highest-interest balance
  • Consolidating debt (if appropriate for your situation)
  • Increasing monthly payments where possible

Small, consistent adjustments now can significantly reduce financial stress throughout the year.

5. Prepare for Tax Season Early

Gathering documents now can simplify your filing process later. Begin organizing:

  • Interest statements
  • Donation receipts
  • Medical or childcare expense records
  • Business-related documents
  • Any forms you expect to receive in January

Having everything in one place makes tax preparation smoother and reduces the risk of missed deductions or last-minute complications.

6. Strengthen Your Account Security

Fraud attempts increase around the holidays, making year-end a smart time to review your security settings. Protect your accounts by:

  • Updating passwords
  • Turning on multi-factor authentication
  • Enabling transaction and low-balance alerts
  • Reviewing recent activity for unfamiliar transactions

If anything looks out of place, report it to URSB right away. Staying proactive is one of the best ways to keep your information safe.

7. Review Your Automatic Payments and Subscriptions

Subscription services, app fees, and automated payments can easily accumulate. Review all recurring charges and confirm which ones you still want and which you may be able to eliminate.

Even small reductions in monthly spending can free up room in your budget for savings or upcoming financial goals.

8. Make a Plan for Major 2026 Expenses

Looking ahead helps reduce financial surprises. Consider planning for:

  • Property taxes
  • Insurance premiums
  • Annual memberships
  • Travel plans
  • Education expenses

Mapping these out now can make budgeting smoother and more predictable throughout the year.

9. Choose One Financial Habit to Begin in January

Starting the year with a single, manageable habit often leads to long-term success. You might decide to:

  • Review your accounts weekly
  • Automate savings
  • Create a monthly budget
  • Track expenses more consistently
  • Organize your billing schedule

The goal isn’t to overhaul your entire financial life at once—it’s to build sustainable momentum.

A Strong Start Begins With a Strong Finish

Completing this year-end checklist can help you enter 2026 with clarity, confidence, and a financial plan that aligns with your goals. Whether you’re fine-tuning your budget, preparing for the next big milestone, or simply looking to stay more organized, URSB is here to support you at every step.

If you need help reviewing your accounts, setting up alerts, or planning for the year ahead, visit your local branch or contact our team. We’re proud to help you build a stronger financial future.

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