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2810 Fieldstream Drive North

Wilson, NC 27896

 

Phone: 252-237-4357

Fax: 252-243-2681

 

January/February 2026

Getting Your Finances Back on Track

Getting Your Finances Back on Track

The holiday season often leaves wallets strained, but 2026 can start with financial recovery.


Review Spending
First, assess your spending by reviewing bank and credit card statements to identify holiday overspending. Create a budget prioritizing essentials like rent and utilities while allocating funds to pay off high-interest debt, such as credit cards, which averaged 20% interest in 2025.


Take Action
Cut discretionary expenses—dining out or subscriptions—temporarily to free up cash. Rebuild your emergency fund, aiming for 3–6 months' expenses, by setting aside small, consistent savings. Adjust tax withholdings using the IRS Tax Withholding Estimator to avoid surprises and optimize cash flow. If eligible, explore tax deductions (e.g., charitable donations) or credits to reduce your tax burden. Consider a side hustle to boost income and accelerate debt repayment.


Meet with your financial professional to refine your budget and investment strategy, ensuring long-term goals like retirement savings stay on track. Act promptly to regain control.


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Active Planning & Investment Solutions and LTM Marketing Solutions, LLC are unrelated companies. This newsletter was created by LTM Marketing Solutions, LLC and was not written or created by the named financial professional and does not necessarily represent the views and opinions of Cetera Wealth Services, LLC® or its subsidiaries.
Securities offered through Cetera Wealth Services LLC, member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory Services offered through Cetera Investment Advisers LLC, a registered investment adviser. Cetera is under separate ownership from any other named entity.

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