How to Set Yourself up for Investing Success in 2026

Slide 1
Track income, expenses, savings; automate alerts before lifestyle creep wins.

Slide 2
Emergency fund: 3–6 months, freelancers aim 6–12, high-yield only.

Slide 3
Pay off high-interest credit cards first; 20% debt crushes market gains.

Slide 4
Bump 401(k) from 3% to 5%, max IRA, HSA pre-April 15.

Slide 5
Rebalance 80/20, sell high buy low, tax-smart muni funds included.