As the year wraps up, it’s the perfect time to pause, reflect, and make a few smart financial moves that can set you up for success in the year ahead. Whether you live locally in Springfield, or in the newly added 7th Congressional District, our below End-of-Year Financial Checklist for Southwest Missouri can help you start the new year feeling confident and in control.
Here’s a simple End-of-Year Financial Checklist, plus how Volt Credit Union can help you take each step with ease.
1. Review Your Spending (Without Judging Yourself)
Start by looking at the past few months of spending. The goal isn’t perfection, it’s awareness.
Ask yourself:
- Where did my money go this year?
- Are there categories that surprised me?
- What expenses could I adjust next year?
👉 How Volt can help:
Volt’s digital banking tools in our mobile app make it easy to track spending and review transactions, so you can spot patterns and plan smarter without spreadsheets or stress.
2. Create Sub-Share Accounts for Smarter Saving
If all your savings live in one account, now is the perfect time to organize it.
Sub-share accounts allow you to divide your savings into categories, such as:
- Emergency Fund
- Vacation Savings
- Home Projects
- Back-to-School Costs
- Property taxes
👉 How Volt can help:
Volt Credit Union members can create sub-share savings accounts to keep goals clear and money organized so you’re less tempted to dip into funds meant for something else.
3. Start a Holiday Club for Next Year (Yes, Already!)
The holidays have a way of sneaking up and so do the expenses. Opening a Holiday Club account now means next year’s holiday spending won’t come with January regret.
Why a Holiday Club works:
- Automatic savings throughout the year
- Less reliance on credit cards
- A stress-free holiday season
👉 How Volt can help:
Volt’s Holiday Club accounts are designed to help Southwest Missouri families plan ahead, so the holidays feel joyful not financially overwhelming.
4. Check Your Debt and Make a Plan
Take a moment to review outstanding balances, interest rates, and monthly payments.
End-of-year questions to ask:
- Am I paying high interest on credit cards or loans?
- Could consolidating save me money?
- What debt do I want to reduce next year?
👉 How Volt can help:
Volt offers personal loans, auto loan refinancing, and credit options that may help lower interest and simplify payments, keeping more money in your pocket.
5. Boost Your Emergency Fund
An emergency fund is one of the best financial gifts you can give yourself.
A good goal:
Start with $500–$1,000, then build toward 3–6 months of expenses.
👉 How Volt can help:
Set up a dedicated sub-share account for emergencies and automate transfers—small, consistent deposits add up faster than you think.
6. Set Realistic Financial Goals for the New Year
Instead of vague resolutions, aim for specific, achievable goals, such as:
- Save $50 per paycheck
- Pay off one credit card
- Build a holiday fund by December
- Open a High-Yield Checking Account so start earning more
👉 How Volt can help:
Volt’s team is here to help members across Southwest Missouri create practical plans that fit real life, not one-size-fits-all advice.
Finish the Year Strong with Volt Credit Union
An end-of-year financial checklist doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Small steps now can make a big difference in the year ahead,and you don’t have to do it alone.
At Volt Credit Union, we’re proud to serve our Southwest Missouri communities with tools, guidance, and accounts designed to support your goals all year long.
Ready to get started?
Open a sub-share account, start a Holiday Club, or talk with a Volt team member today and head into the new year feeling confident, prepared, and empowered.
Not a member yet?
Join now and and let’s start 2026 strong.
