The article emphasizes the importance of setting realistic and actionable financial goals for the new year, such as saving, paying off debt, and building an emergency fund, with advice from experts and examples from individuals making plans for 2026.
The article offers practical last-minute strategies to pay off credit card debt before the new year, including redeeming points, using cashback extensions, selling items online, monetizing skills, and utilizing holiday bonuses, primarily effective for smaller balances.
Jasmine Taylor, a cash stuffing expert who paid off $23,000 in student loans and other debts, shares three strategies to cut your grocery bill. She recommends using apps like Fetch, Ibotta, Rakuten, and Shopkick for rewards and cash back. Planning meals, checking your pantry, and using a calculator while shopping can help you stay on budget. Taylor advises adjusting your expectations gradually instead of drastically cutting your spending. Little financial wins can add up and help you reach your money goals.