Jonesboro, AR – (Contributed) – The new year is here, which means many people will be making resolutions to improve their health and well-being.

For 2026, Arvest Bank is encouraging consumers to include improving their financial health with some tips that will have immediate and long-term implications.

“We encourage everyone to set aside time during the holidays to review their finances and plan for the New Year,” said Terri Coleman, sales coordinator for Arvest Bank – North Arkansas region. “While it’s normal to focus on the added expense of the holidays, it’s also a great time to reflect on your financial goals, make a plan, and take steps toward a stronger and healthier financial future.”

Checklist to Improve Your Finances in 2026:

• Track your spending – Understanding where your money goes can help you create a more effective personal budget, establish realistic goals, and provide peace of mind. Tracking your spending allows you to see where your money is going instead of wondering where it went.
• Tackle debt – The end of the holiday season is a good time to make sure any credit card or other personal debt is managed properly with a plan.
• Review credit report – After the holidays, look at your credit report, which you can get for free every 12 months, and check your credit score. Report any errors you see immediately to save time, money and hassle in the future.
• Check your savings – Ask yourself if you’re on track to hit your savings goals. The best approach is to have savings and investments automatically taken from your paycheck instead of hoping you have enough left at the end of the month.
• Review investments – Look at how your investments, from 401(k) to IRAs, are performing, and visit with your financial advisor to make sure they’re aligned with your individual situation and your goals for retirement. 
• Update beneficiaries – Review all insurance policies, bank and investment accounts, and trust and estate planning documentation to ensure the beneficiary designations are correct and include current contact information. If you do not have a will or estate plan, discuss your situation and goals with an attorney, financial advisor, and tax professional so they can help you get started.
• Set your 2026 goals – Now is the time to establish SMART (strategic, measurable, attainable, realistic, and time-bound) goals that incorporate your current financial situation, anticipate emergency and unforeseen expenses, and build security for the future.