We also catch up with Renita. Back in episode 44episode 44, she had recently completed her debt repayment plan and had just shared the details of her debt journey with her husband. A year and a half later, she continues to make strides on some of her financial goals. Her husband, inspired by her success, has even started working with GreenPath himself! 

Key Moments

3:14 Regina describes her experience making progress paying down her debt. 

6:06 She recalls what it felt like when she became debt-free. 

9:14 She discusses her new goals, including paying down her mortgage and building retirement and emergency savings.  

15:52 She talks about her measured excitement about her financial future. 

19:03 Renita talks about her debt progress as she focuses on her student loan repayment. 

23:26 Her husband, inspired by her debt repayment success, enrolls on his own Debt Management Program with GreenPath. 

25:44 She talks about some potential future financial goals such as home renovation. 

31:14 Our cohosts reflect on the themes from Regina’s and Renita’s stories. 

Taxes are complicated. Between deductions, dependents, credits, and changing rules, it's no wonder millions of people turn to professionals. But even if you're filing solo, avoiding these common missteps can save you a lot of trouble. And if you need to file an amendment (or haven't filed yet at all), here are some helpful links to get you started:  

IRS Free File 

Interactive Tax Assistant 

Forms & Instructions 

Common Tax Mistakes

Incorrect filing status 

Fix: If you used the wrong filing status, file an amended return (Form 1040-X). To avoid future mistakes, use the IRS Interactive Tax Assistant to find the correct status based on your situation.  

Wrong or missing Social Security number(s) 

Fix: Double-check your SSN and ensure it matches your legal name on file with the SSA. If already filed, use Form 1040-X to correct. 

Missing forms or schedules

Fix: File an amended return to include any omitted forms (like 1099s, Schedules A, C, or D). Tax software often alerts you to these before you file. 

Unsigned return 

Fix: For paper returns, sign and re-submit. If you filed electronically and your PIN or e-signature failed, check with your e-file provider or the IRS. 

Claiming ineligible dependents 

Fix: Review IRS dependent eligibility rules. If a dependent was denied, gather documentation and file Form 1040-X if needed. 

Misreporting tax credits (e.g., EITC, Child Tax Credit) 

Fix: If the IRS questions a credit, review your eligibility and file an amended return if necessary. Claiming certain credits may delay refunds under the PATH Act. 

Unreported income (freelance, gig work, investments) 

Fix: If the IRS sends you a CP2000 notice, compare it to your return. If correct, pay the difference. If not, respond with documentation. You can also file Form 1040-X if needed. 

Wrong taxable Social Security benefits 

Fix: Use the IRS worksheet or software to calculate how much of your benefits are taxable. File a 1040-X if you need to correct it. 

Math errors 

Fix: The IRS often corrects simple math mistakes, but they can still delay your refund. Reduce errors by filing electronically. 

Sending it to the wrong IRS address (paper filers) 

Fix: Re-send your return to the correct address listed on IRS.gov. Better yet: file electronically. 

Standard deduction vs. itemizing 

Fix: If you discover itemizing would have saved more, file a 1040-X with Schedule A. You have up to three years to amend and claim a refund. 

Incorrect bank account info for direct deposit 

Fix: If you entered an invalid account, the IRS will mail a paper check. If the account was valid but incorrect (e.g., someone else’s), contact your bank and the IRS. The IRS can’t reverse deposits once processed, so triple-check routing/account numbers before filing. 

How to Stay on Track When Filing Taxes 

Double-check your numbers 

Filing electronically reduces math errors and flags inconsistencies. Review line by line-especially SSNs and income. 

Review all your info 

Names, SSNs, and direct deposit info must be perfect. A single wrong digit can send your refund to the wrong place-or delay it. 

Don’t miss the deadline 

The tax deadline is April 15, 2025. If you need more time, file Form 4868 for an automatic extension. But remember: extensions apply to filing, not paying. 

Claim your deductions and credits

You could qualify for savings on things like student loan interest, medical expenses, education, and child care. Research your options-or use a tax pro. 

Use the right forms 

Don’t mix up 1040, 1040-SR, or 1040-X. Use IRS guidance or tax software to select the correct ones automatically. 

File even if you can’t pay 

Filing late triggers harsher penalties than paying late. Submit your return and arrange a payment plan if needed. 

Filing Past the Deadline: What to Do If You Made a Mistake 

Mistakes happen! But correcting them quickly can help you avoid penalties or get a bigger refund. If you filed and later spot an error, here's how to fix it: 

 How to Amend Your Tax Return 

• Gather your original return and all relevant documents. 
• Fill out Form 1040-X, clearly explaining what changed. 
• Submit it electronically or by mail. 
• Pay any additional tax due—or request a refund if you overpaid. 

If the issue stems from a W-2 or 1099 error, contact the issuer to request a corrected form first. 

Fixing a tax mistake isn’t fun, but it’s better than facing delays, penalties, or missed refunds. Take the time to file carefully, and when in doubt, reach out to a tax pro or visit www.irs.gov. 

Why a Kids’ Savings Account is a Smart Move 

While there’s no shortage of books, apps, and games that teach kids about moneyteach kids about money, one of the simplest and most effective ways to help them learn is by opening a savings account.

There's no minimum age to start, and even small, regular deposits can add up over time. Whether you want to help your child build smart money habits or give them a financial head start, a savings account can be a valuable tool. 

And here’s the cool part—kids today are already thinking about their financial future. An Acorns survey found that 41% of Generation Alpha (kids ages 6-14) are saving for big goals like college, a house, or even retirement. Yep, retirement! They’re picking up money lessons from parents, school, and even social media. Opening a savings account now gives your child a hands-on way to manage money, set goals, and feel proud of their progress—no matter how small their deposits might be.  

The Benefits of a Savings Account for Kids 

1. Encourages a Savings Mindset 

Does your child love spending their allowance the moment they get it? Whether it's a new Lego set or video game console, the temptation to splurge is real. A savings account introduces the concept of delayed gratification-teaching kids that saving money over time allows them to reach bigger goals. 

For example, if a child deposits just $10 per week, they’ll save $520 in a year—and that’s before interest kicks in. Seeing their balance grow fosters a sense of accomplishment and helps them understand that good things come to those who wait. 

2. Builds Financial Knowledge 

Many adults wish they had learned more about moneylearned more about money as kids. A savings account gives children hands-on experience managing their finances and introduces key financial concepts, including: 

• Making deposits and withdrawals: They’ll learn how to put money in and take money out responsibly. 
• Tracking account balances: Keeping an eye on their savings helps them understand cash flow. 
• Understanding interest and compound growth: Watching their money grow with interest teaches them about the power of saving early. 

As they get older, transitioning from a savings account to a checking account can help them practice budgeting, debit card use and responsible spending. 

3. Boosts Confidence with Money 

Handling their own savings builds confidence. When kids have control over their money, they gain a sense of independence and responsibility. Watching their balance grow gives them a sense of pride, reinforcing good financial habits. 

Many banks even offer kid-friendly online dashboards where children can log in and check their savings progress. This real-time visibility keeps them engaged and motivated to save more. 

4. Helps Them Plan for the Future 

A kids' savings account is more than just a place to stash money-it's a tool for goal setting. Whether they're saving for a big purchase, a school trip, or even their first car, having a dedicated account helps them stay focused and committed. 

This is also a great opportunity to introduce long-term savings goals like college savings or investing. While they may not need to think about retirement yet, teaching them early about setting aside money for the future is a valuable lesson. 

Types of Savings Accounts for Kids

Not all savings accounts are the same! Depending on your child's age and financial goals, here are a few options to consider:  

• Traditional Savings Accounts: Low minimum balances and a fixed interest rate make these great starter accounts. 
• High-Yield Savings Accounts: Offer higher interest rates, helping savings grow faster, though they may require a higher minimum balance. 
• Custodial Accounts: Managed by a parent or guardian until the child reaches a certain age—ideal for long-term goals like college savings. 
• Joint Accounts: Both you and your child have access, allowing you to monitor their activity and guide them as they learn. 

What to Look for in a Kids’ Savings Account 

When choosing the right account, keep these features in mind: 

• Competitive Interest Rate: Higher interest means faster growth. 
• Low or No Fees: Avoid accounts with unnecessary fees that eat into savings. 
• No High Minimum Balance: Some accounts require a minimum deposit—look for one that fits your budget. 
• Online & Mobile Access: Digital banking tools make managing money easier for both you and your child. 
• Financial Education Resources: Some banks and credit unions offer budgeting tools and savings challenges to help kids learn. 
• Joint Account Option: If you want to guide your child’s savings, a joint account gives you oversight while allowing them some independence. 

How to Open a Savings Account for Your Child 

Ready to open an account? Here’s what you’ll need: 

• Your ID (passport, driver’s license, or other official identification) 
• Your child’s birthdate and Social Security number 
• A minimum deposit (some banks require $25–$100 to start—check in advance!)

Many banks allow you to apply online or in person at a local branch. Before finalizing your choice, compare different accounts to find the best interest rates, lowest fees, and most user-friendly tools for kids. 

Buying a car is one of the biggest financial choices you’ll make. While the overall inventory situation has improved, many are still experiencing sticker shock at the car lot when it’s time to shop. 

It's easy to feel overwhelmed or pressured into a deal that may not be right for you but with the right preparation, you can take control of the process, avoid costly mistakes, and drive away with a car that fits your needs and budget. Follow these seven steps to make your car-buying journey smoother, smarter, and less stressful.

Step 1: Research Your Options

Before visiting a dealership, research car models, features, and price ranges that fit your budget. Compare fuel efficiency, safety ratings, and resale values to make an informed decision. This knowledge also strengthens your negotiating position when you're ready to buy. Consider using a car buying service to compare in-stock vehicles and obtain upfront price offers from local certified dealers. 

Step 2: Secure Auto Loan Financing

Decide whether buying or leasing suits your lifestyle and budget. Your credit score significantly impacts your auto loan’s interest rate—higher scores mean lower rates and monthly payments on your car loan. A strong credit history can help you secure better loan terms. Use an online loan payment calculator to estimate what you can afford before committing. 

Buying vs. Car Leasing 

• Buying: Best for long-term savings if you plan to drive the car for many years after paying off the loan. 
• Leasing: Ideal for those who prefer a new car every few years and drive fewer than 15,000 miles per year. Understanding the lease agreement is crucial, as it outlines the terms and conditions of your leased vehicle.

New Cars vs. Used Cars 

• New Cars: Customizable, come with warranties, but depreciate quickly. Car loans for new cars often come with competitive interest rates, making them an attractive option for financing your purchase. 
• Used Cars: More affordable, depreciate slower, but may require more maintenance. Consider the growing market for electric vehicles, which can offer long-term savings on fuel and maintenance.

Step 3: Take Your Time

Shop around online and in-person to compare prices, inventory, and dealer incentives. Avoiding impulsive decisions—patience can lead to better deals. Tools like Kelley Blue Book can help you assess fair market value. Car dealers and leasing companies often have different incentives and offers, so it’s beneficial to compare their terms. 

Step 4: Negotiate the Best Deal

Once you’ve chosen a car, be prepared to negotiate. A substantial down payment can improve your loan terms and reduce your monthly paymentsmonthly payments. Research fair prices ahead of time, and don’t be afraid to walk away if the deal doesn’t match your budget. Private sellers may offer lower prices, but purchases come without warranties or service support. Look out for special lease deals that may offer lower monthly payments for qualified buyers. 

Step 5: Take Precautions

Always test drive the car and review its accident and maintenance history. If buying used, request a CARFAX report and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic to avoid hidden repair costs. 

If you plan to lease, be aware of the potential fees for breaking the lease early. 

Step 6: Calculate Total Costs  

Lower monthly payments aren't always a good deal-longer loan terms often mean paying more in interest. Consider the structure of your monthly car payment and explore refinancing options to reduce interest rates and overall costs. Be cautious of extras like extended warranties that can drive up costs.

Step 7: Budget for Monthly Payments and Ongoing Expenses 

Factor in added costs like insurance, fuel, maintenance, and registration fees. Car leasing can offer lower monthly payments but involves ongoing costs dictated by the leasing company. A car's sticker price is just the beginning-ensure it fits comfortably within your overall budget.

Need to Review Your Budget? 

A car is one of the biggest purchases you’ll make, and smart financial planning can save you thousands. GreenPath’s financial counselors can help you review your current budgetcurrent budget and discuss the best paths forward to make sure you’re on the right track. Talk to a certified financial expert at GreenPath for a free financial consultation. 

Maria became the first person in her family to own a home and started her own small business shortly after welcoming a son. Her experience in marketing led her to GreenPath, where she now utilizes her skills for a mission she cares deeply about.   

Learn more about her story in her own wordsin her own words.

Key Moments

Key Moments 

2:50 Maria reflects on her time growing up in Mexico and how her family approached money. 

6:54 She remembers the difficulty of getting accepted into college because of her immigration status. 

10:08 She strategizes paying for college without financial aid. 

11:38 Her role working for a bank opens her eyes to the obstacles faced by the Hispanic community. 

14:38 She helps other students and parents who share the challenge of getting into college.  

18:13 Maria buys a home shortly after graduation, becoming the first person in her family to accomplish this goal. 

19:48 She gives birth to her son and starts her own business. 

27:03 Maria describes her experience starting her role at GreenPath. 

29:20 She discusses her financial goals, including investing in retirement. 

34:48 Our co-hosts reflect on the themes from Maria’s story. 

If it feels like there’s never quite enough to cover everything, you’re not alone. A quarter of American households are living paycheck to paycheck, according to Bank of America—making it harder than ever to stay on top of monthly bills. With inflation stretching budgets thin, many people are facing impossible choices about which expenses to cover now and which must wait. While there’s no one-size-fits-all solution, these key strategies can help you take control and prioritize your bills with confidence. 

1. Food and Groceries

Ensuring you and your household have enough to eat is a fundamental necessity. Prioritize setting aside a portion of your budgeta portion of your budget for groceries before addressing other expenses. To stretch your food budget further: 

• Plan meals ahead of time to avoid impulse buys. 
• Use store loyalty programs, coupons, and cashback apps to maximize savings. 
• Buy in bulk for non-perishable essentials and look for generic brands, which are often more affordable. 
• Consider local food banks or community assistance programs if you need temporary relief. 

2. Housing

Keeping a roof over your head should be a top priority. Whether you rent or own your home, missing payments can lead to profound consequences, including eviction or foreclosure. If you’re struggling: 

• Contact your landlord or mortgage lender to discuss potential payment plans or hardship assistance. 
• Review your lease or mortgage terms to understand your rights and responsibilities. 
• Check if you qualify for government or nonprofit housing assistance programs. 

3. Utilities

Essential utilities such as electricity, water, and heating should be paid to maintain a safe and comfortable living environment. If your utility bills are overwhelming: 

• Contact your utility providers to ask about budget billing or hardship programs. 
• Reduce consumption by using energy-efficient appliances, turning off unused electronics, and setting thermostats wisely. 
• Consider downgrading or suspending non-essential services like cable TV or premium Internet plans. 

4. Transportation

Reliable transportation is crucial for getting to work and handling daily responsibilities. Prioritize car payments, public transportation costs, or other necessary commuting expenses. If high costs are straining your budget: 

• Explore carpooling or public transportation options to save on gas and maintenance. 
• Check if you qualify for discounted transit passes or commuter benefits from your employer. 
• If you own multiple vehicles, consider selling one or switching to a more fuel-efficient model. 

5. Insurance Premiums

Health, auto, and home insurance provide financial protection in emergencies and should remain a priority. While insurance premiums can feel like an unnecessary expense, not having coverage can be even more costly. 

• Review your policies to see if you can adjust coverage to lower your premiums. 
• Shop around for better rates or bundle multiple policies for discounts. 
• If you’re struggling to make payments, contact your insurer to discuss temporary relief options. 

6. Child Support and Financial Health 

Child support payments are legally mandated and should be considered a top priority. Failure to pay can result in penalties, wage garnishments, and even legal action. If you're struggling to keep up: 

• Contact your local child support office to discuss modification options if your financial situation has changed. 
• Utilize state programs that offer aid or mediation services for payment adjustments. 
• Prioritize these payments to avoid legal consequences and ensure the well-being of your child. 

7. Minimum Credit Card Debt Payments 

Debt payments, such as credit card debt, medical bills, and personal loans, should still be addressed, but they often fall lower on the priority list compared to necessities like housing and food. If you're struggling: 

• Reach out to creditors to explain your situation and request hardship programs, reduced interest rates, or extended repayment terms. 
• Focus on making minimum payments to avoid penalties and damage to your credit score. 
• Consider a Debt Management ProgramDebt Management Program, which is designed to lower your monthly payments and eliminate debt within three to five years. 

In navigating these financial responsibilities, we understand that life can present challenges, and we encourage you to reach out for supportreach out for support and explore options that ensure the well-being of your home and peace of mind.  

If you’re experiencing a sudden loss of income, it’s completely understandable to feel overwhelmed and uncertain about the future. Layoffs are incredibly challenging, both emotionally and financially. Remember, you’re not alone in this—many others are facing similar situations, and there are steps you can take to help you manage your finances and maintain stability during this transition. 

Take Time to Process 

Taking time to process the news can help you regain clarity and move forward with a plan that protects both your financial future and professional relationships. 

• Do: Request a written reference or LinkedIn recommendation from your employer before you leave. This can be a valuable asset in your job search, providing potential employers with a positive endorsement of your skills and work ethic. Additionally, ask if your employer offers outplacement services to help you transition to a new job. 

Apply for Unemployment Benefits

Apply for unemployment benefits in person, online, or over the phone. Act quickly, as it may take several weeks to receive a check. 

• Do: Keep detailed records of your job search activities, as some states require this information to continue receiving benefits. This includes dates, company names, and positions applied for, which can also help you stay organized and track your progress. Make sure to follow up on your application to ensure there are no delays in processing.

Revise Your Budget for Financial Health 

Prioritize essential payments (rent, groceries, utilities) and pause nonessential ones (memberships, subscriptions). Use emergency funds if available. Consider seeking credit counseling to help you create a budget and manage your finances effectively during this challenging time. 

• Do: Use budgeting apps to track your expenses and identify areas where you can cut costs. Apps like YNAB (You Need A Budget) can provide insights into your spending habits and help you make informed decisions about where to reduce expenses. Negotiate with service providers for lower rates or temporary suspensions where possible.

Plan Your Insurance Coverage

Explore options for health insurance coverage, such as joining a parent’s or spouse’s plan, or shopping through the federal insurance marketplace. 

• Do: Look into short-term health insurance plans as a temporary solution until you secure a new job with benefits. These plans can provide essential coverage at a lower cost, helping you avoid high medical expenses during your job search. Also, check if you qualify for Medicaid or other state-sponsored health programs.

Lower Your Payments

Request temporary suspension of payments or inquire about lower rate promotionsinquire about lower rate promotions from financial institutions. 

• Do: Contact your creditors as soon as possible to discuss your situation and explore available options. Many creditors have hardship programs that can offer reduced payments or deferred payment plans to help you manage your finances during this period. Document all communications and agreements for future reference. Consider enrolling in a debt management programdebt management program which can reduce payments and help you become debt-free faster.

Join the Gig Economy 

Temporary gigs like package delivery, freelancing, or temp work can help you maintain cash flow while searching for a new job. 

• Do: Spend some time on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or TaskRabbit to find short-term gigs that match your skills. These sites can provide flexible work opportunities and help you bridge the gap until you find a permanent position. Additionally, consider leveraging your network to find freelance or contract work opportunities.

Bottom line: Remember, this is an incredibly challenging time, but it’s not permanent. With the right approach and support, you can navigate through it successfully. For additional support, consider reaching out to GreenPath for free financial counselingfree financial counseling. Our empathetic and certified counselors will work with you to create a personalized plan to manage your finances and help you move forward with confidence and peace of mind. 

For Kelly, a scarcity mindset still lingers from when her financial struggles were greater.  Despite these setbacks, Kelly has begun to shift her mindset and reclaim, starting a Debt Management Program with GreenPath.   

While she's still a year into debt repayment, she has simplified her financial life, which has given her more peace of mind.  Kelly offers reflection about the psychological roots of her relationship with money and shares practical tips for others in a similar situation.  

Key Moments

2:57 Kelly reflects on how her family handled money growing up and how this influenced her as she reached adulthood. 

6:31 She starts spending more money after starting a new relationship. 

11:24 She describes how her debt slowly evolved to the point of being overwhelming. 

13:50 She starts to explore debt options and discovers GreenPath. 

16:55 Kelly discusses when she had used a debt settlement company earlier in her journey and why she feels more comfortable working with GreenPath today. 

22:19 She talks about her goals and progress on her Debt Management Program. 

24:31 She finds support with other friends who are going through similar circumstances. 

26:39 She analyzes how her scarcity mindset affects her approach to money. 

31:23 Kelly considers her financial goals, including creating more financial flexibility, buying a condo and travelling more. 

35:17 She shares a financial tip to save ten-dollar bills. 

44:33 She thinks about what financial advice she’d give her younger self, including saving more when she was younger. 

49:14 Our co-hosts reflect on the lessons learned within Kelly’s story. 

Throughout her college years, Darla developed a voracious appetite for financial knowledge. She discovered that she was just as capable as her wealthier peers. Empowering herself with financial literacy became her game changer. 

Not only did Darla unlock her own financial potential, but she also became a beacon of guidance for others. Her journey reveals that the emotional aspects of money are far more significant than the numbers. 

Learn more about Dr. Darla Bishop at www.howtoaffordeverything.com 

Key Moments

2:42 Darla talks about her experience with money growing up, including how money got tighter after middle school. 

4:12 She has a transformative experience going to a summer program in high school. 

6:23 Money obstacles almost prevent her from going to her dream college. 

9:12 Her money curiosity leads her to books and mentors to increase her personal finance knowledge. 

11:53 A blown tire gives Darla insights into her psychological patterns. 

17:21 Her decision on which apple to buy becomes a money lesson. 

19:51 She reflects on how the emotional aspects of money are so much more important than the math. 

21:39 She transforms her mindset around money. 

25:30 She recounts how she determined how much money she’d need to balance her budget and reach her debt repayment goals. 

30:45 Darla shares some financial tips. 

33:50 She gives advice for other military spouses. 

37:15 She considers her future financial goals. 

46:27 Our co-hosts reflect on themes from Darla’s story. 

There is something truly cathartic about being able to check something off your to-do list-especially when the outcome is you feeling more financially poised and empowered. Here are actionable steps you can take to end this year strong.   

1.Take Inventory

This is the perfect time to look at your major life milestones of the past year (or changes on the horizon) to ascertain how they intersect with your finances. Have you purchased a new car or home? Is someone in your household beginning higher education or staring down the barrel of loan repayment? Have you merged finances through marriage or cohabitation? Examine your income, monthly payments, and create a budgetcreate a budget that reflects any factors that could affect your tax withholdings and overall financial picture. 

2. Maximize Retirement Accounts 

Does your current employer match your 401(k) plan contributions? Take advantage and contribute what you can. The deadline to contribute to 401(k) is usually December 31st, and if you have an IRA account, you can make contributions right up until Tax Day. Doing this will help you reach those retirement savings goals and trim down your tax bill for the current year.

3. Tackle Debt

We get it. The last thing you probably want right now is a reminder of your holiday extravagance. This is the time to enjoy the afterglow of presents and feasting. When you have the emotional fortitude, pay off credit card debtpay off credit card debt or, at minimum, chip away at credit cards that carry the highest interest rates. If you have solid credit, you may be able to pay off debt faster by transferring your credit card debt to a zero or low-interest card (just a heads up that this often comes with a fee). 

4. Review Your Credit Report

 The end of the year is a good time to evaluate your credit report. Beyond the aim of improving your score, monitoring your credit regularly alerts you to any errors or fraudulent transactions. Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion all offer one free credit report per year, but you can expect to pay about $5 to access your score. 

5. Enroll in a Health Insurance Plan

Choose your plans by the enrollment deadline to ensure that your coverage will begin on January 1st. The open enrollment period for 2024 runs from November 1, 2024, to January 15, 2025. Enrolling by December 15 ensures your coverage starts on January 1, while enrolling after December 15 but before the January deadline will result in coverage starting on February 1. Going a few weeks without any coverage isn't a worthwhile risk to take. 

6. Take Advantage of your FSAs

Speaking of health benefits, make sure you check the end-of-year deadline if you have a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) through your current employer. If you don't take advantage of unused benefits, you'll lose them when the new calendar year rolls around. Schedule your yearly physical, get a cancer screening, or make that appointment to get your teeth cleaned that you've been putting off all year (we don't judge you). 

7. Square Away Estate Planning

When life happens (marriage, divorce, birth, death, or shifts in family dynamics), we’re often not fully prepared for the impact this can have. And while none of us have a crystal ball forecasting the future, you can still make plans to ensure your family and loved ones are accounted for. Evaluate your designated beneficiaries and trustees, make any necessary changes, and draft a will if you haven’t done so already. 

8. Create an Emergency Fund

Only 44% of Americans have emergency savings to cover three months of expenses. This percentage could decrease now that we're seeing record-breaking inflation at the gas pump and grocery store. While your cash reserves might be a bit lean after the holiday season, consider setting up a direct deposit that funnels even a small percentage of your paycheck into a dedicated savings account. 

9. Set New Financial Goals

Is there a family vacation you wanted to take but couldn't budget for? Are there categories you're overspending in and need to cut back on? Any big purchases you're planning to make for yourself or others in your household? You might be ruminating on New Year's resolutions already, so consider adding some financial goalposts to round out your list. 

10. Get Connected

We understand that while to-do lists are a solid start, sometimes having a second pair of eyes and ears is important, too. And that's where we come in. 

GreenPath is a trusted national nonprofit organization with more than 60 years of experience in helping peoplehelping people save money, pay down debt, and build financial resiliency. Our empathetic NFCC-certified counselors can help you evaluate your year-end goals and create a customized plan for you based on your specific circumstances and needs.