Smarter Tools to Help You Budget and Save
A new year brings new opportunities to take control of your finances. Whether you want to build savings, manage day-to-day spending, or get more organized with your money, Service Credit Union offers a suite of tools designed to help you stay on track. Here are some smart ways to use them to budget better and save more in the year ahead.
Build Your Emergency Fund With a Primary Savings Account
If improving your emergency savings is one of your 2026 goals, our Primary Savings Account is one of the easiest places to start. You’ll earn 5% APY* on the first $500, helping your balance grow faster without any extra effort.
Start by setting a monthly savings target—whether it’s $20, $50 or $100—and schedule an automatic transfer from your checking account. Automating your emergency fund ensures you're building a financial safety net consistently, and the high rate on your first $500 gives your savings an immediate boost. Once you reach that milestone, keep going. Even a modest emergency fund can make unexpected expenses far less stressful.
Clean Up Recurring Charges With Subscription Manager
Subscription services can add up fast. From streaming platforms to app renewals to monthly memberships, it’s easy for forgotten charges to chip away at your budget.
Make it a habit to check your subscription list monthly or quarterly. A few quick updates can save you hundreds over the course of the year.
With Subscription Manager, powered by Scribe Up, you can view all your recurring payments in one place. The tool helps you track what you’re paying for, identify services you no longer use, and cancel unwanted subscriptions with just a few clicks.
Check Out Robo-Investing
Ready to start investing but feeling intimidated by the process? E-Invest, powered by Tapp Engine**, offers automated robo-investing that builds and manages a diversified portfolio based on your risk level and financial objectives.
Whether you’re saving for retirement, building long-term wealth, or just getting started, E-Invest helps take the guesswork out of investing. Consistency is key, so consider setting automatic contributions, even small ones. Over time, those regular deposits can make a meaningful difference.
Stay in Control With My Cards
A smarter budget starts with staying aware of how you spend. My Cards, available through the Service CU mobile app, lets you set spending limits, block certain transaction types, and receive instant alerts whenever your debit or credit card is used.
These built-in guardrails can help you reduce impulse spending, detect unauthorized charges immediately, and keep your monthly budget on track. It’s a simple but powerful tool to help you stay disciplined throughout the year.
Use Instant Payments for Better Cash Flow
Instant payments make it easier to manage your money in real time. With the ability to send and receive funds immediately, you can pay bills on time, split expenses with friends, and move money between accounts without waiting days for transfers to clear. Use your online banking account to set up recurring transfers and pay bills, so you don’t have to worry about remembering to move your money on time.
Create a 2026 Financial Dashboard With Digital Banking
By using all of Service Credit Union’s digital banking features, you'll get a complete picture of your finances. Set account alerts, track spending trends, and check your savings progress anytime, anywhere.
Taking control of your finances doesn’t require a complete overhaul, just the right tools and a plan you can stick with. By using these smart features from Service Credit Union, you can simplify budgeting, grow your savings, and make steady progress toward your financial goals all year long. Small steps taken consistently can lead to meaningful results in 2026 and beyond.
*Annual Percentage Yield (APY) is accurate as of the last dividend declaration date of 12/01/2025 and subject to change without notice. Dividends paid on daily balances of up to $500; variable APY of 5.00%. If actual daily balance exceeds $500, the remaining balance will receive variable APY of 5%-0.25%. Dividends are calculated based on the daily balance with the sum of the daily earnings credited on the last day of each month. Must be a member of Service CU or establish membership with $5 in a Primary Savings Account.
**These services are being offered through TAPP Engine or its affiliates, which are separate entities from, and not affiliates of, Service Credit Union. Service Credit Union is not registered as a broker-dealer or investment advisor. Investments made through E-Invest are not credit union deposits/obligations and are not insured by the NCUA nor are they guaranteed by the credit union. Subject to risk and may lose value. See terms and conditions for more information.
