For many people with variable incomes, such as those who are paid by the day, by the hour, or work for different employers, meeting financial goals can seem unattainable. Added to this is the fact that not everyone has access to traditional banking.
However, financial education specialists agree that it is not all about earning more money, but about knowing the tools that can make a real difference, even in times of economic stress.
Here are some practical tips that can help you take care of your money and move toward your goals in 2026.
Adjust the payment dates for your bills
Many people find it difficult to pay their bills on time, as in many cases the due dates do not always coincide with when they receive their income. What few people know is that some companies allow you to change the due date of your bills.
Not all companies accept this adjustment, and in some cases, there are prerequisites. Even so, specialists recommend always asking, as this can reduce unintentional delays and additional charges.
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau advises making a clear request, saying something like:
“I am requesting a change to the due date for my [name of service] bill. I would prefer the due date to be the __th of each month. Thank you for your help.”
Before confirming the change, it is important to ask:
- When is your next payment due?
- How much will you have to pay?
- Will there be any additional charges?
Keep in mind that if you request a date later than the current one, the first bill after the change may be higher.
Call before you are unable to make a payment to the bank
One of the lesser-known tips is to contact banks before the due date of a payment, whether it is a loan, credit card, or even a mortgage, if you are unable to make the payment.
Financial educator Yanely Espinal, author of the book Mind Your Money, explains that many financial companies offer temporary relief programs, known as hardship plans or forbearance plans.
These plans may include:
- Temporary reduction or suspension of minimum payments
- Elimination of late payment fees
- Temporary reduction in interest rates
“Not calling can be interpreted as a lack of intention to pay, which directly affects your credit history,” Espinal said in interviews with NPR. Instead, a timely call can help you avoid penalties and further damage to your credit.
Seek free financial counseling in Spanish
Another resource is free or low-cost financial counseling, available to everyone in the United States regardless of immigration status.
One of the most recognized organizations is the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC), which offers a free financial counseling session, also available in Spanish.
After assessing your situation, an advisor can help you:
- Analyze your debts
- Negotiate with creditors
- Create a realistic financial plan
Although some programs may have minimal costs, the NFCC states that no one is turned away because they cannot pay.
Start small, even if it’s just a few dollars
Saving isn’t just for high earners. Even putting aside a few dollars a week can make a difference over time.
“It’s possible to budget and save even on a low income,” explains Jen Teague, director of Health Coverage and Benefits at the National Council on Aging. “It takes practice and discipline, but it can be done.”
Consider high-yield savings accounts
High-yield online savings accounts are savings accounts that are opened and managed primarily online and offer higher interest rates than traditional savings accounts.
Generally, these banks can pay more interest because they do not have physical branches, which reduces their costs. In exchange, you manage your money from an app or website, can make electronic transfers, and see your savings grow faster, even with small amounts.
However, many of these accounts have specific requirements, such as opening them entirely online and, in many cases, having an SSN or ITIN, being a permanent resident or U.S. citizen, depending on the institution.
Before making a decision, it is advisable to compare interest rates and conditions. A reliable resource for doing so is Bankrate, which publishes the most reliable savings accounts with the best interest rates.
Editor’s note: This article was originally written in Spanish and translated into English
