January is Financial Wellness Month, and a good time to evaluate your money habits while considering ways to improve your financial wellness. By carving out time to focus on your financial goals now, you will be on your way to improved financial fitness all year long.
Here are six tips to help keep your financial fitness on track:
Start with clear financial goals
If you only have time for one financial exercise, this is a good one to pick! Whether you want to pay down debt, build savings, or improve your credit score, clarity is the first step toward becoming financially empowered.
Write down:
- What you want to accomplish
- Why it matters to you
- What small actions you can take this month to reach your goals
Build a spending and savings plan
A realistic spending plan/budget keeps your money working for you. If you’re not sure where to start, Credit Union of Ohio’s free financial counseling services provide personalized guidance on:
- Budgeting and saving
- Setting long-term financial goals
- Improving your credit score and overall financial health
Attend Credit Union of Ohio’s Financial Fitness Boot Camp
Jump-start your financial wellness by attending Credit Union of Ohio’s FREE Financial Fitness Boot Camp virtual workshop on Jan. 28 at noon.
Topics include:
- What a credit score is and why it’s important
- How to create a budget
- Establishing savings
- Goal setting for long-term success
This session is designed to provide practical financial education resources you can apply immediately.
Check your credit health
Your credit score plays a major role in your overall financial fitness. Make it a habit to review your credit report regularly. You can request a free report from each of the three credit bureaus at least once per year. Routine financial exercises like paying bills on time and keeping credit card balances low can help improve your score.
Tackle high-interest debt
High-interest debt can make it harder to stay financially fit. Many Credit Union of Ohio members have saved hundreds of dollars per month* by transferring balances from other financial institutions to a lower-interest Credit Union of Ohio credit card or loan.
If you’re looking to reduce monthly expenses and regain control, contact our team to see if we can help.
Create an emergency fund
An emergency fund protects your progress. If you don’t already have one, aim for three to six months of essential expenses at first. It helps to start small with automatic deposits into a savings account. Every little bit adds up!
We’re here to help you build your best life, one financial step at a time.
At Credit Union of Ohio, financial wellness means having access to the tools, guidance, and support you need to succeed. From free financial counseling and financial education to low-interest lending options and unique savings products, we’re here to help you stay financially fit all year long. Call 800.443.5698 or stop by your local branch to get personalized help with your 2026 financial fitness plan.
*Your experience may vary from the story presented.