7 Tips to Automate Your Savings in 2026

We all start the year with the best intentions to save more, but life often gets in the way. The secret to success isn't more willpower—it’s automation. By using SharePoint Credit Union’s digital tools to "set it and forget it," you can watch your balance grow without even thinking about it.

Here are 7 tips to put your 2026 savings on autopilot:

1. Split Your Direct Deposit

You don’t have to move money manually every payday. Ask your employer to split your direct deposit so a specific dollar amount or percentage goes directly into your SharePoint Credit Union savings account, and the rest goes to checking. If you never see the money in your checking account, you won't miss it!

2. Set Up Recurring Internal Transfers

If you prefer to keep your full paycheck in checking initially, use the SharePoint Mobile App to set up a recurring transfer. Whether it’s $25 every Friday or $100 once a month, scheduling these transfers ensures your savings goal is treated like a non-negotiable bill.

3. Open a Dedicated "Holiday Club" Account

Don't let December 2026 catch you by surprise. Open a dedicated secondary savings account specifically for holiday spending. Automating just $20 a week starting in January means you'll have over $1,000 ready by next Christmas!

4. Automate Your "CD Ladder"

If you have a lump sum of savings, don't just let it sit. You can automate your wealth building by setting up a "CD Ladder." By opening multiple Certificates of Deposit (CDs) that mature at different times (e.g., 6 months, 12 months, and 18 months), you ensure you always have access to cash while earning a higher interest rate than a standard savings account.

5. Schedule Increases with Your Raises

Did you get a 3% raise this year? Increase your automated transfer by that same 3%. Since you’re already used to your previous take-home pay, you’ll be boosting your future wealth without feeling a pinch in your current lifestyle.

6. Set Up Low-Balance Alerts

Automation works best when you have peace of mind. Set up Alerts in Online Banking to notify you if your checking account hits a certain threshold. This ensures your automated savings transfers never accidentally trigger an overdraft.

7. Automate Your "Emergency Fund" First

Before saving for a vacation or a new car, automate your "Rainy Day" fund. Financial experts recommend having 3–6 months of expenses saved. Once your automated transfers hit that target goal, you can simply redirect that same recurring transfer toward your next big dream!

Ready to start? Log in to the SharePoint Credit Union mobile app today to set up your first recurring transfer, or visit us in-branch to open a new savings goal account!