Reach Your Financial Goals: Columbia CU on Hello Rose City

As the new year unfolds, many individuals set ambitious financial resolutions—only to see them fade within days or weeks. The good news is simple and empowering: it’s not too late to refocus, rebuild, and regain momentum with your financial goals in 2026. This year is all about taking a fresh look at your finances—whether that means building savings, tackling credit card debt, or simply getting more comfortable with digital banking tools.

Julie Bocanegra, VP Branches Regional Manager, and Aamir Sheikh, Branch Manager of our Washougal Branch, joined Hello Rose City host Lacey Evans to talk about practical financial strategies and the many resources available to our members. From digital tools that simplify budgeting to workshops designed to build long-term financial confidence, Columbia Credit Union is committed to supporting members at every stage of their financial journey.

Start by Gaining a Clear Understanding of Your Finances

Effective financial planning begins with clarity. As Julie explains, members come to Columbia Credit Union from a wide range of financial backgrounds—some are just starting out, others are raising families, planning major purchases, or preparing for retirement.

To support these diverse needs, Columbia Credit Union offers comprehensive digital banking tools designed to give members a full, real-time view of their financial situation. These tools include:

• Spending trackers that automatically categorize expenses
• Credit score monitoring directly within online banking
• Financial learning tools for youth, helping families teach smart habits early
• Retirement check‑ins to help members evaluate long‑term readiness

This combination of insights allows members to assess where they stand and identify actionable steps to move forward.

Use Automated Expense Tracking to Improve Budgeting

Modern budgeting no longer requires check registers or manual record‑keeping. Through Columbia Credit Union’s Digital Banking, members can automatically track and categorize spending—revealing trends, habits, and opportunities to save.

By seeing exactly how much is spent on groceries, dining out, transportation, entertainment, and other categories, members can make informed decisions that align with their goals. Visibility is the foundation of control, and automated tracking empowers better day‑to‑day financial choices.

Build Savings Through Simple, Consistent Automation

For many, saving money can feel overwhelming. Aamir recommends a practical approach rooted in routine and simplicity: automate small contributions.

Even modest amounts—such as $10 per week or $10 per month—build meaningful progress over the course of a year. Automation:

• Removes the burden of remembering to transfer money
• Encourages consistency
• Builds momentum and confidence
• Helps members transition from small savings goals to larger emergency funds

Once an initial cushion is established, individuals are encouraged to expand their goals to two months of expenses, then six months. Small steps can create significant long-term financial stability.

Engage in Financial Workshops and Webinars Throughout 2026

Columbia Credit Union is deeply invested in community financial education. In 2026, members can expect:

• Monthly workshops hosted across all 14 branch locations
• In‑person events covering topics such as credit scores, home buying, and retirement readiness
• Goal‑setting sessions, including early‑year workshops on establishing financial priorities

These sessions are designed to complement the digital tools available in online banking, providing deeper education and one‑on‑one support. Members can find the full schedule of upcoming workshops at columbiacu.org/events.

Manage and Reduce High‑Interest Credit Card Debt

For many households, January brings the challenge of paying off holiday credit card balances. Sheikh notes that high‑interest debt can accumulate quickly—particularly when interest rates exceed 20%, resulting in hundreds of dollars in annual interest charges.

Columbia Credit Union offers a highly competitive credit card designed to help members reduce or consolidate debt effectively. Key features include:

• 0% interest for the first 12 months on purchases and balance transfers (within the first 90 days)
• No balance transfer fee, unlike many competitors charging 3–5%
• Reward programs built into the card

By transferring existing high‑interest balances, members can save significantly—both in interest and in avoided transfer fees. Applications can be completed online or at any branch.

Common Financial Questions in Early 2026

As members reassess their financial outlook for the year, several questions frequently arise:

• How can I make my income stretch further each month?
• Is debt consolidation a good option for my situation?
• How can I begin saving during a time of high prices and rising interest rates?

Columbia Credit Union’s financial experts are available to provide personalized guidance tailored to each member’s circumstances. Whether the goal is reducing debt, building savings, or planning for long‑term financial security, knowledgeable staff are ready to help.

Take Control of Your Financial Future Today

While many people begin the year feeling uncertain or behind on their financial goals, the path forward is clear: start where you are, use the right tools, and seek support from trusted advisors.

Columbia Credit Union offers:

• Digital banking tools for clarity and control
• Automated savings solutions
• Educational workshops and webinars
• Debt management options and competitive credit products
• Expert guidance at every branch

Your financial reset for 2026 can start today. Columbia Credit Union is here to help you achieve your goals with confidence.