Start Where You Are:

3 Steps to Help Reach Your Financial Goals in 2026

A new year often comes with big financial resolutions, but progress doesn’t require perfection. It starts with understanding where you are right now and taking one step forward.

We believe reaching your financial goals doesn’t mean having all the answers on day one. It means starting where you are, using the tools you have, and partnering with people who care about your success.

Here are 3 tangible steps you can take to begin reaching your financial goals in 2026.

Step 1: Know Your Starting Point

Before setting new goals, take time to understand your current financial picture:

• Review your checking and savings balances

• Look at your monthly income and spending habits

• Identify one financial strength and one area you’d like to improve

This doesn’t require spreadsheets or special software. Just a few minutes of honesty and clarity.

Try this: Log into your Heritage Digital Banking App or Online Banking Account and spend 10 minutes reviewing your recent transactions. 

Step 2: Set One Realistic Goal

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Focus on one goal that matters most to you right now.

That goal might be:

• Building an emergency fund

• Paying down a specific debt

• Saving for a home, trip, or upcoming life milestone

The key is to make your goal specific and achievable.

Try this: Attach a dollar amount to that one goal and set a simple timeline to reach it. 

Step 3: Talk to a Real Neighbor

One of the biggest advantages of banking locally is having access to people (Neighbors) who understand your goals, your community, and your financial questions. A conversation can help turn ideas into action.

Try this: Stop by a Heritage branch, send us a message through the Heritage Digital Banking App, or schedule time with a banker and ask:
“What’s one step I can take this month to move closer to my goal?”

Your Next Step Starts Today

Wherever you are today, that’s enough to begin. We’re here to walk alongside you with real conversations, real guidance, and real Neighbors who want to see you succeed.

Start Reaching Financial Goals.
Start Where You Are.