These are the two most common financial goals for 2026 – how do yours compare?

As we enter the final two months of the year, it’s a good time to start thinking about how you’re progressing financially in 2025 and what goals you have in mind for 2026.

A new Vanguard survey finds that Americans’ top financial resolutions for 2026 include creating an emergency fund, or using a high-yield account to meet some short-term savings goals.

Americans feel confident about meeting financial goals in 2026

The survey of more than 1,000 American adults found that 84% said they have at least one New Year’s resolution related to their finances, with 82% feeling either somewhat or very confident that they will be able to achieve that goal.

However, at the same time, nearly three-quarters of respondents said they failed to achieve at least one financial goal this year. About a quarter of the group cited a desire to keep up with the cost of living and a desire to be prepared for unexpected costs or emergencies as their biggest motivators.

Different age groups presented different factors that could serve as the biggest obstacle to achieving their financial goals in 2026. Gen Z participants cited their biggest concern as the fact that they are spending more than they can afford, Millennials cited not earning enough money, and Baby Boomers cited unexpected expenses that impair their ability to save.

Americans should use the end of the year “as a time to reset” and determine where they can save and generate better returns, Matt Benschiner, managing director of Vanguard’s personal investor business, said in the survey.

Tips for starting an emergency fund or building savings

Many Americans should consider creating a better emergency fund. Earlier this year, a Federal Reserve survey found that only 63% of a group of 12,000 American adults said they would be able to pay a $400 emergency expense with cash, their savings, or a credit card they would pay off as soon as possible.

Investopedia has compiled a collection of tips from experts on how to start and build an emergency savings fund, and where and how to find the best high-yield savings options to make the most of your money. Experts recommend starting an emergency fund with a small amount each month, and setting up an automated process to grow the fund without using it for daily expenses.

An analysis by Investopedia earlier this year determined how much emergency savings the average American would need to reach six months of expenses saved at $35,000.

When it comes to high-yield savings accounts, it’s important to know the best rates on the market today, especially since the Federal Reserve is lowering interest rates. Be sure to shop around for what works best for you and remember the terms and any potential fees that come with the account if you’re opening an account at a new bank.