Dear 2026: we're getting our money together
By Emma Ray, Community Relations Specialist at Blackhawk Bank and Trust
The calendar flips to January 1st. Your gym shoes are by the door, your planner is fresh, and your bank account…well, it could use some goals of its own.
Instead of choosing to set financial resolutions that feel overwhelming, start with real, attainable goals for you and your family. Realistic goals are the ones that will actually stick--and that is where the right tools make all the difference.
Set Goals That Feel Real, Not Rigid
At Blackhawk Bank and Trust, our online and mobile banking features are designed to support your financial planning all year long. Our Spending Insights tool, for example, offers an extensive 12-month review of your finances breaking down the “what, when, and where” behind every dollar that leaves your account. It also identifies which months you spent the most, helping you recognize patterns, anticipate busy seasons, and set smarter goals for the year ahead. With better clarity comes better decision making and a financial plan that feels achievable all year long.
Build a Simple Monthly Plan
Building a simple monthly plan can be the first step into reaching financial goals in the new year. Through our online banking platform, you’ll find digital tools that make planning feel less intimidating and far more achievable. Our online banking features are dedicated to help you stay organized, aware, and in control.
Here are a few tools that can support your monthly money routine:
Card Controls & Alerts: Customize how your card works by turning it on or off, blocking certain regions or transaction types. This creates an extra layer of protection and to help you stay mindful of your spending.
Merchant & Purchase Filters: Choose where and how your card can be used, whether online, or in store giving you greater structure and control.
Visual Spending Charts: Review a clear picture of where your money is going each month with easy-to-read charts that help you spot patterns and make informed adjustments.
Credit Score Simulator: Explore how major financial decisions, like paying off debt or taking out a new loan might impact your credit score before you commit.
Your Financial Safety is Part of Your Financial Success
As we move into the new year, it is necessary to stay aware of the scams circulating in our community. Here are the ones we are keeping an eye on:
Sweepstakes and Lottery Scams: These scams convince victims they have “won big” whether that is a prize, a vacation, or a cash payout. The catch? You’re asked to pay fees or taxes upfront to claim it.
Romance Scams: Scammers create fake, online identities to build relationships to gain trust. Overtime, they request money for emergencies, travel, or personal crises.
Tech Support / Virus Scams: Scammers often begin with a fraudulent phone call; these scams claim your device is compromised. The scammer then urges you to give them access to personal accounts to “fix” the problem, often asking for you to pay for unnecessary repairs.
Smishing Scams: These scams come through urgent or alarming text messages that appear to be from banks, delivery companies, or government agencies. They are designed to make you click a link or share private information.
As a trusted community bank, it is our priority to help you begin the new year with confidence. Here’s to a new year of clarity, simple habits, and steady growth.