New Year, Better Finances

January is Financial Wellness Month! This month is meant to encourage you to take a fresh look at your finances. It's a perfect time to build strong habits and goals for the year ahead. Think of it as a starting line.

How to Participate in Financial Wellness Month

Review and Reset Your Financial Goals

Before you make any financial changes, you should look closely at your budget, savings plan, and outstanding debt. Ask yourself:

• Are you tracking your spending? If not, try a free budgeting app or a spreadsheet to track where your money goes each month.
• Do you have short- and long-term savings goals? Write them down, then set up automatic transfers so saving can happen with little to no effort.
• Where can you cut back on spending? Pick one area, like subscription services or dining out, and redirect that money toward debt or savings.

Even small changes can add up quickly. Financial wellness doesn't equal financial perfection. The point is to make progress as quick wins build momentum and make bigger goals feel within reach. 

Use Trusted Financial Education Resources

If you prefer a more structured approach to improving your personal finance skills, a personal finance class or simulation may be right for you.

As a member of Education First Credit Union, you have access to Banzai. From free online lessons to online simulations, there's a course for every stage of life. Students can learn the basics of budgeting and credit, while working professionals may focus on investing, retirement planning, or debt management. The right course can help you build the skills you need to achieve financial wellness.

Members of Education First also receive access to GreenPath Financial Wellness and Stonebridge Wealth. GreenPath provides you with access to one-on-one financial counseling, debt management services, and financial education tools. Stonebridge Wealth works through small, manageable steps to help you achieve better financial health and empowers you to take control of your finances.