The educational investing information presented on this page is intended for informational purposes only. BW, Inc. does not provide advisory or brokerage services, nor does it endorse or recommend specific stocks, securities, or other investments.
Managing finances doesn’t have to be complex or time-consuming.
However, a recent BW survey revealed that about 32% of Americans feel anxious about their finances heading into 2026.
You’ve got this. By focusing on small actions consistently, you can improve your financial well-being, according to Lisa Eaton, an accredited financial counselor and founder of Firm Footing Financial Planning in Seattle.
Let’s make it simpler for you with six ideas to help you worry less about money in 2026, all in 10 minutes or less.
1. Automate your fixed expenses
Adulting comes with a lot of decisions to make every day. Simplify your financial decisions by automating recurring expenses.
You may already have automated your mortgage or rent payments, but what about other bills?
Eaton suggests automating as many fixed expenses as possible to save time, mental energy, and reduce the risk of late payments. Bills like water, electricity, trash, cable, and phone services are all ideal for automatic payments. When you next pay these bills, opt for automatic payments.
Use your bank’s bill pay feature to centralize all your payments.
2. Automate your savings, too
Don’t forget to pay yourself. Set up automatic transfers to your savings account.
“It only takes about 10 minutes to schedule a weekly or monthly transfer from your checking to savings account,” advised Robert Finley, a certified financial planner in Chicago.
The same BW survey found that 46% of Americans aim to save money for emergencies in 2026. Start with whatever amount you can comfortably set aside, whether it’s $20, $50, or $75.
“Even small, consistent contributions can add up over time, and once it’s automated, you can set it and forget it,” Finley added.
Find a reputable institution where you feel comfortable and open an account. For example, a $10,000 balance could earn you an extra $400 per year with a 4% annual percentage yield.
4. Explore index funds
If you’re looking to invest, consider keeping fees low and your strategy simple.
Index funds track the performance of a stock market index, such as the S&P 500. By investing in index funds, you’re diversifying your investment across multiple companies rather than putting all your money into one stock.
“Choose your first index fund and set up a monthly automated contribution, even if it’s just $10,” she advised.
5. Trim unnecessary subscriptions
After prioritizing saving, you may need to reevaluate your expenses.
Eliminating one unnecessary subscription can be a quick win, according to Finley.
“Review your credit card statement and identify subscriptions that no longer provide value. Cancel them and see if you miss them over a couple of months,” he recommended.
For dining delivery apps like DoorDash or Uber Eats, consider deleting the app to save money on unnecessary convenience fees.
6. Sell items on Facebook Marketplace
Take a few minutes to declutter your home and earn some extra cash by listing items for sale on Facebook Marketplace.
Setting simple and strategic financial goals for the next 12 months can help you stay on track with your priorities, according to Finley.
Consider starting a 529 plan for your child, reducing discretionary spending, or exploring retirement account options as actionable steps to improve your financial health.
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