How to Kickstart Your Money in 2026

I know we are 3 weeks into the year, however I find after the end of the year/start of the new year most people are away, off work or have too much on so finances and goals take a back seat.

If you have school aged kids, there are those expenses and often it isn't until February you can get on top of thing or feel like you might.

Here are some easy things you can do this week to kickstart your money and make the rest of the year easier.

1. Pick a goal. It doesn't need to be huge, it simply needs to motivate and inspire you so you can stay focused when you are tempted. Often at this time of year, people get easily distracted or are still in spending mode. A goal can help reduce this. Tips: How to achieve big financial goals and my specific goal method.
2. Track your spending or review your bank statements to see where you are spending.
3. Set time to go over your bills and review if you are getting the best deal for insurance, internet and so on.
4. Open a savings account (check out the cash bonus sign up offers below) and schedule a regular transfer to it from now on.
5. Take care of some life admin such as booking the dental appointments for the year/salon appointments, eye check up etc now or automating payments where possible. Learn more about streamlining life to make it easier.
6. Decide if you want to do a side hustle and choose which one. A few ideas on those here.
7. Choose some easy go to meals for those nights you don't want to cook but don't want to get takeaway.
8. Pick 1 change to try that will save you money and track how much it saves you e.g. any of these ideas.
9. Check your discounts e.g use these 13 ways to get discounts and if you are on Centrelink see if you are eligible for anything else here.
10. ​Check your state to see if you are eligible for any assistance or bonuses.

Habits for 2026

Your habits will either help you achieve your goals and create the life you want or take you in the opposite direction. Here are some habits to help you with your money this year.

​21 money habits of the wealthy​

​9 frugal habits to save you thousands​

​18 time-saving tips/habits for busy parents​

​12 habit changes for a healthier, wealthier life with more free time​

Cash Bonuses

To kickstart 2026 there are cash bonuses you can get fast. Including:
​$30 from Up. Get $15 instantly when you join then another $15 if you complete 2 transactions on your card by 23 January 2026.

​$125 from ING for new customers with a few steps.

$30 from Ubank when you sign up with the code S7VL6WF and complete 5 transactions on your card in the first month.

​$20 from Shopback when you join and shop through them for cashback within 2 weeks.

​$5 from WeMoney, a budgeting app.

​Find more discounts and freebies for January here.

$210 QuiteLike Discount

My favourite meal kit is QuiteLike and now you can get up to $210 off when you try them. They had the freshest ingredients, best range of meals and great customer service in my experience.

I tried them when my kids and I were looking for something new to try, then reached out to collaborate with them as I liked it so much.

​Get your discount and read my review here.

The Thrifty Issue Community

For more and to connect with others check out The Thrifty Issue Facebook group, Facebook page, Instagram, Pinterest.​