Spring is here! The days are getting longer, the air is a little warmer, and you’re probably thinking about tackling that closet or finally finding out what’s really under your couch. While you’re freshening up your home, why not give your finances a little TLC too?

Just like spring cleaning helps you feel more organized and refreshed, giving your finances a reset can help you feel more in control and ready to reach your goals. A little effort now can set you up for success the rest of the year. So, grab your metaphorical mop – it’s time to dust off your money habits and make your financial future sparkle.

Polish Your Financial Goals

Remember those financial resolutions you set back in January? (It’s okay if you forgot – we won’t judge.) Spring is the perfect time to check in and see how you’re doing.

  • Are you hitting your savings targets, or have those takeout orders eaten into your budget?
  • Is your debt shrinking – or quietly snowballing in the wrong direction?
  • Have any of your financial priorities shifted?

If you’ve made more progress than expected that’s amazing! Maybe it’s time to increase your savings or tackle debt more aggressively. If you’ve veered off track, don’t stress – spring is all about fresh starts. Adjust your goals to fit where you are today, not where you thought you’d be in January.

Take a Financial Inventory

You know that satisfying feeling of decluttering a junk drawer? That’s exactly how it feels to organize your finances. Time to sort through your accounts and get a clear picture of where you stand.

  • List your accounts – Write down all your checking, savings, loans, credit cards, and investment accounts. Include balances and interest rates so you know exactly where your money lives.
  • Review beneficiaries – If you’ve had any major life changes (like marriage, divorce, or a new baby), make sure your beneficiaries are up to date.
  • Close unused accounts – That old bank account from college? If you’re not using it, close it out to simplify things and avoid random fees. But be careful to weigh the impact of closing credit cards you don’t use – it can affect your credit score.
  • Document your valuables – Create a photo or video inventory of your big-ticket items (like jewelry, electronics, or art) for insurance purposes. Keep it in a secure place.

Clean Up Accounts and De-Clutter Debt

If managing your money feels like untangling a mess of holiday lights, a little simplifying can go a long way.

  • Combine accounts – If you have checking and savings accounts at different banks, consolidating them can make tracking easier (and might even save you some fees). Check out Chartway's checking and savings options to simplify your financial picture.
  • Consolidate debt – If you’re juggling multiple credit cards or loans, combining them under one loan with a lower interest rate can save you money and stress. Chartway offers personal loans and credit cards to help you simplify payments.
  • Automate payments – Setting up automatic bill payments can help you avoid late fees and missed payments.

Refresh Your Budget and Toss Out What’s Not Working

Take a fresh look at where your money’s going. You might be surprised by what’s sneaking into your budget.

  • Check for forgotten subscriptions – That “free trial” that started billing you six months ago? Yeah, it’s time to cancel.
  • Spot impulse spending patterns – If those coffee runs or online sales are draining your wallet, set a weekly limit or challenge yourself to DIY those treats instead.
  • Create a sinking fund – Planning for predictable but occasional expenses (like car repairs, holiday shopping, or summer vacations) can help you avoid dipping into your emergency fund.

Chartway’s budgeting tools can help you clean up your spending and restart your saving.

Use Your Tax Refund Wisely

Getting a tax refund? It’s tempting to blow it all on something fun – but using it strategically can give you a bigger financial lift.

  • Boost your emergency fund – Experts recommend saving three to six months’ worth of expenses.
  • Pay down debt – Putting extra money toward high-interest debt can save you a ton in interest.
  • Invest in your future – Contributing to your retirement or investment accounts can help your money grow over time.
  • Treat yourself responsibly – It’s okay to use a little for something fun – just save or invest the rest.

Once you've made the most of your tax refund, it's time to think about protecting what you’ve achieved.

Check Your Credit and Strengthen Security

Your credit score plays a big role in your financial health, so give it some attention this spring:

  • Check your credit report – You’re entitled to a free copy from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion each year. Look for errors and report inaccuracies.
  • Strengthen your passwords – Update your financial account passwords (actually update all passwords on all accounts) and make them unique and hard to guess.
  • Set up security alerts – Most financial institutions offer notifications for suspicious transactions or logins.
  • Use multifactor authentication – Adding an extra layer of security (like a code sent to your phone) can help keep your accounts safe.

Learn more about staying safe online with Chartway’s fraud and security tips.

Plan for the Future

It’s never too early – or too late – to think about the future.

  • Review your will – If you don’t have one, now is a great time to create one.
  • Update your power of attorney and guardianship designations – Make sure your loved ones are protected and your wishes are known.
  • Check your retirement plan – Make sure you’re contributing enough to stay on track. Even small increases can make a big difference over time.

The Bottom Line

Spring cleaning your finances isn’t just about getting organized – it’s about feeling more confident and in control of your money. Small steps – like reviewing your budget, cutting unnecessary expenses, and strengthening your financial security – can have a big impact. So, roll up your sleeves, dust off those financial goals, and give your money the refresh it deserves. Before you know it, your finances will be blooming as beautifully as spring flowers.