Kick Off 2026 the TruChoice Way
The holiday decorations are tucked away, the Maine winter has officially settled in, and there’s a brand-new calendar on the wall. At TruChoice, we love the feeling of a fresh start. It’s the perfect time to take a deep breath, look at your goals, and decide how you want your 2026 to look.
If "getting my finances in order" is on your resolution list, don’t worry! You don't have to do it all at once. Financial wellness isn't about being perfect; it’s about making small, intentional changes that help you feel more secure and less stressed.
Here are a few simple, Maine-grown tips to help you start 2026 on the right financial foot:
1. The "Subscription Audit"
We’ve all been there: signing up for a free trial to watch one show and then forgetting about it for six months. Take ten minutes to scroll through your transaction history in our mobile app. See a streaming service you haven’t watched or a gym membership you haven't used since last winter? Cancel it! Those small monthly savings add up faster than you’d think, and that’s money that could be going toward a cozy weekend getaway or your emergency fund instead.
2. Give Your Budget a "Gut Check"
If you haven't looked at your budget since last year (or ever!), now is the time. A great way to start is the 50/30/20 rule:
- 50% for needs (housing, groceries, heat).
- 30% for wants (that extra large coffee or a night out in Portland).
- 20% for savings and debt repayment.
If your "wants" are taking up a bigger slice of the pie, try a "no-buy" week in January to reset your habits.
3. Make Saving Automatic
The easiest way to save is to make sure you never even see the money in your checking account. At TruChoice, we have tools to make this effortless:
- Round Up: Every time you swipe your debit card, we’ll round the purchase to the nearest dollar and put the change in your savings. It’s like a digital change jar!
- Split Direct Deposit: Talk to your employer about sending a small percentage of your paycheck—even just $10 or $20—directly into a separate savings account or a Save Up Certificate.
4. Know Your Score (Without the Stress)
Checking your credit score doesn't have to be scary. In fact, knowing where you stand is the first step toward better rates on future car loans or mortgages. You can check your report for free at www.annualcreditreport.com. If you’re looking to rebuild or protect your credit this year, our team is always here for a Credit Score Analysis. We’ll sit down with you, look at the numbers, and help you make a plan—no judgment, just help.
5. Watch Out for "Lifestyle Creep"
Did you get a raise or a bonus to start the new year? Congratulations! Before you upgrade your lifestyle, try "budgeting" at least half of that increase into your savings or toward paying down high-interest debt. Your future self will thank you.
6. Update Your Beneficiaries
It’s one of those tasks that is easy to forget but incredibly important for your family’s peace of mind. If you had a major life change in 2025—like a marriage, a new baby, or even a move—take a moment to ensure the beneficiaries on your accounts are up to date. It’s a small step that protects the people you care about most.
7. Plan for Joy, Not Just Bills
Financial wellness isn't just about restriction; it’s about balance. If you're only budgeting for bills, you’re bound to burn out. Set aside a "Joy Fund"—even if it's just $5 a week—specifically for things that make you happy, like a weekend away with friends, or tickets to a show. When you plan for the fun stuff, you’re much less likely to feel guilty when you spend!
We’re Here for You
Whatever your goals are for 2026, remember that you are not alone. Whether you're saving for your first home, trying to get a handle on debt, or just want to feel more confident about your spending, we’re here to make your goals our goals.
Stop by one of our branches, send us an email or give us a call. We’re more than just a place to keep your money; we’re your neighbors, and we’re here to help you reach your "Tru" potential this year.
