As we flip the calendar to 2026, it’s a good time to reassess your financial picture and set your priorities for the year ahead. With economic conditions continuing to evolve, focusing on the fundamentals can help you stay prepared, reduce stress, and make progress towards your long-term financial goals.
Revisit and Refine Your Budget
Rising costs and lifestyle changes can quietly throw a budget off track. Review your 2025 spending, adjust for new expenses and set realistic limits that reflect your current priorities. Refreshing your budget creates clarity and helps ensure your money is working where it matters most.
Strengthen Your Emergency Savings
Unexpected expenses are a fact of life but having a financial cushion can make all the difference. An emergency fund is essential for financial stability. Most should set a goal of three to six months of essential expenses in an account that can be easily accessed such as a high yield savings. If you have to dip into your savings, it’s important to make replenishing your emergency savings a priority.
Prioritize Retirement and Long-Term Savings
A strong retirement strategy often draws from multiple sources. Benefit-eligible employees working 30 hours or more a week are required to participate in one of the Mandatory Retirement Plans, either the UNC Optional Retirement Program (ORP) or the Teachers’ and State Employees’ Retirement System (TSERS). You may also want to consider increasing your retirement savings through a UNC Supplemental 403(b) and/or a 457(b) plan.
Tools and Resources Are Available
As you are updating your financial plan, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. UNC offers complimentary services and tools through our retirement carrier, TIAA and CAPTRUST, our retirement investment advisors.
For more Financial Education topics from TIAA, click here or you can schedule a retirement planning session with a TIAA Financial Consultant by clicking here.
To meet one-on-one with CAPTRUST for assistance with your financial plan, click here to schedule a virtual appointment.
Enroll in the UNC Supplemental Retirement Plans
To enroll in the Supplemental UNC 403(b), complete the 2026 403(b) Salary Reduction Agreement Form
To enroll in the Supplemental UNC 457(b), complete the 2026 457(b) Voluntary Salary Deferral Agreement Form