A1. When reviewing 2025, the change in interest rates and inflation likely influenced how many households approached borrowing, saving, and budgeting. While events like this make people more aware of their financial health, rising credit usage is a trend to keep an eye on.

A6: Consider using a budgeting app that automatically categorizes your spending and saving. Many banks have built-in account tools to help, so check with your bank to see what they have available. #CreditChat

A2: Not to underestimate the power of a 401K. Fully maximizing contributions and taking advantage of the complete company match provided a surprisingly fast and substantial boost to my retirement savings. It made a much bigger difference in a single year than I ever expected.

A5: You can’t reach your goals without setting them first. A solid financial plan turns goals into a clear, achievable path. Whether you're saving, investing, preparing for large purchases or a rainy day, a roadmap matters. Contact your bank to see how to best meet your needs.

A6. Using a budgeting app that categorizes expenses and tracks spending in real time can be an effective way to monitor spending habits. This visibility helps identify spending patterns and areas for improvement. #CreditChat

A6. I am a spreadsheet girl! I keep a Google Sheet with my budget and I know exactly where my money is going. Where I KNOW I got thrown off last year was the cost of sports, summer camps, and school extras. I'm going into 2026 with a clear vision. #CreditChat

Q5. What financial steps should people take early in the new year to set themselves up for success? #CreditChat

A8. Turning one-time financial wins into lasting habits involves setting new goals that build on these successes. For instance, after paying off a debt, redirect those payments into savings or investments to reinforce the habit of financial discipline. #CreditChat

A4. Consistency is key! Automate savings, (I check my accounts daily), review your credit regularly, and set small, achievable financial goals. Over time, those habits compound into real progress. #CreditChat

A9: Develop a habit of saving. Having emergency savings means that even if your financial situation changes, you’ll still be able to pay your bills. Get tips for learning to save: https://t.co/7XWp9fI0kZ #CreditChat

A5. Early in the new year, take time to reassess your financial goals and update your budget. Setting clear, achievable objectives and a roadmap for the year can set a strong foundation for financial success. #CreditChat

A roadmap gets you where you want to go!

Totally agree! #CreditChat

A5: Love this question @Experian Start fresh. Leave the guilt in last year. You can’t change the past, but you can absolutely change what you do next. #CreditChat

A10: Each big financial decision requires a thought of how are you planning to upkeep this product, what are your plans once you are done using and how long do you want to keep it. #CreditChat @Experian

Addressing the root issue of high-interest debt can help consumers break the cycle and build lasting habits by creating a plan to pay down debt, automate payments, and redirect freed-up funds toward savings or future financial goals. @Experian #CreditChat

Creating a thorough and realistic budget should be the first step consumers take in the New Year to set them up for success. It’s a good idea to review 2025 spending to find areas of opportunity to cut back and help you set clear goals for the year ahead. @Experian #CreditChat

A5: Take time to do a thorough financial review at the beginning of the year. Set goals for things you want to do (not money), then determine how much money you need to achieve those goals. Make money a tool to reach goals, not the goal itself. #creditchat

A10. Ask yourself, “How does this align with my long-term financial goals?” “Can I afford this without debt?” Ensuring that major decisions contribute positively to your overarching financial objectives can guide you towards a more secure future! #CreditChat

A5. Start the year with a clear snapshot. I've already begun to review this year’s spending. I'll be updating our budget for Jan and working with my husband to set saving goals. A strong foundation in January keeps you on track all year. #CreditChat