Saving money tops Americans’ financial resolutions for 2026, with 70% of those setting goals prioritizing this objective, according to new surveys from major financial institutions. The shift reflects growing economic uncertainty and a desire for greater financial control amid rising costs and household debt.
Fidelity Investments’ 17th annual resolutions study found that 64% of Americans are considering a financial resolution for 2026, up from 56% in 2025. Among those planning financial resolutions, saving money ranks as the top priority, followed by paying down debt at 36% and spending less at 30%.
The urgency around saving money stems from widespread financial stress. According to Allianz Life, 48% of Americans reported feeling more stressed heading into 2026 than they did entering 2025. A Wells Fargo survey found that 81% of respondents feel saving money is a form of self-care rather than deprivation, suggesting a psychological shift in how Americans view their financial goals.
Amanda Lott, head of financial planning at Fidelity Investments, emphasized the importance of purposeful planning: “Committing to purposeful financial planning in all market environments is a smart strategy and helps to build confidence and lays a strong foundation for achieving short and long-term financial goals.”
Emergency fund building has emerged as a critical focus area. According to Fidelity, 78% of Americans plan to build up their emergency savings in 2026, with one-quarter of those setting financial resolutions specifically citing emergency savings as a goal. However, many Americans remain underprepared: Bankrate’s 2026 emergency savings report found that only 46% of Americans have enough emergency savings to cover three months of expenses.
Expert Strategies for Achieving Savings Goals
Financial experts recommend automation as the most effective saving strategy. According to a Yahoo Finance report citing financial expert Luc Gueriane, transferring money to a high-yield savings account every payday “teaches discipline without effort and ensures you never lose money.” This approach removes the temptation to spend money intended for savings.
Chris Starr, head of deposits at Wells Fargo, suggests separating spending from savings by opening a dedicated savings account with automatic transfers. “Turn on balance alerts, and auto-transfer a small amount each payday — say $25,” Starr advised. “It’s flexible, out-of-sight, out-of-mind, and will make you think: ‘I can do this.'” High-yield savings accounts currently offer rates around 4% annual percentage yield, significantly higher than the national average of 0.38%.
Beyond automation, experts recommend reviewing subscriptions quarterly and evaluating fixed expenses like insurance and utilities before potential mid-year rate increases. Gueriane also stressed the importance of taking advantage of employer retirement matching, which he called “free money” that most individuals overlook.
Fidelity’s research found that among those who successfully maintained their financial resolutions in 2025, the key factors were creating realistic and easy-to-maintain goals (27%), setting clear and specific targets (26%), and feeling good about progress (27%). More than two-thirds (70%) of respondents believe having a financial plan in place helps them better deal with the unexpected.
The growing emphasis on saving money reflects broader economic headwinds. Fidelity’s study found that Americans are most concerned about rising everyday prices (45%), unexpected expenses (31%), and rising health care costs (28%). Despite these challenges, 71% of respondents reported having a plan to reach their financial goals, suggesting that intentional planning can help Americans navigate financial uncertainty.
Sources
- Fidelity Investments Newsroom — 17th annual financial resolutions study showing 64% of Americans considering financial resolutions in 2026, with saving money as top priority
- Wells Fargo Newsroom — Survey finding 70% of those with 2026 financial resolutions cite saving more money as top goal
- Yahoo Finance / GOBankingRates — Expert strategies for saving money, including automating transfers to high-yield savings accounts
- Bankrate — 2026 emergency savings report showing only 46% of Americans have adequate emergency fund coverage
- Allianz Life — Data showing 48% of Americans more stressed entering 2026 than 2025
