More Americans are considering financial goals for 2026 due to ongoing budget worries.

Financial Resolutions on the Rise for 2026

The start of a new year often brings the chance for a financial reset. A recent study from Fidelity Investments reveals that more Americans are considering financial resolutions for 2026, with a clear focus on short-term savings goals.

According to Fidelity’s annual survey, 64% of participants are thinking about their financial plans for the upcoming year, compared to 56% last year. Interesting, right?

The top three resolutions seem pretty stable from year to year: 44% aim to save more, 36% want to pay off debts, and about 30% plan to cut back on spending.

“For the second consecutive year, we’re seeing Americans shift their priorities towards short-term savings,” stated Leanna Devinney, a market leader at Fidelity Investments, in a FOX Business interview. “This echoes last year’s sentiments—focus on short-term goals like creating emergency funds or reducing debt instead of long-term aspirations.”

One concerning finding is that 55% of Americans feel overwhelmed with their finances. Interestingly, 31% describe their money situation as stressful. It seems Millennials (68%) and Gen Z (64%) report feeling particularly burdened.

There’s also a notable sense of anxiety regarding saving for future needs. Many expressed stress about covering bills (35%), managing monthly expenses (34%), affording medical care in retirement (30%), and having adequate retirement savings (30%).

Last year, almost three-quarters of Americans faced a financial setback. A staggering 20% encountered an unplanned emergency. This context might shed light on why there’s such a strong emphasis on building savings for the unexpected.

“In 2025, 72% indicated experiencing some financial hardship, with 55% feeling overwhelmed,” Devinney remarked. “Prices are rising, and consequently, 33% feel they have much less to work with.”

Yet, amidst these challenges, there appears to be a flicker of optimism. The survey indicates that 70% believe their current financial situation is equal to or better than last year’s. Additionally, 43% feel they are in a better financial position than five years ago, up from 36% previously.

Devinney reflects on the journey, noting, “It was a real rollercoaster start to the year, dealing with significant market fluctuations followed by a recovery, yet persistent worries about inflation.”

“Short-term savings have taken priority in the last two years,” she suggests. “This shift likely stems from the volatility we’ve witnessed, pushing Americans to consider tapping into their savings.”