The city’s Department of Consumer and Worker Protection is encouraging New Yorkers to start 2026 with a stronger grip on their finances, rolling out a list of 10 practical resolutions designed to help residents budget better, reduce debt and plan for long-term stability.
DCWP Commissioner Vilda Vera Mayuga said everyday costs like rent, groceries, childcare, student loans and medical bills continue to squeeze working families, making financial planning more important than ever. The agency is urging New Yorkers to set clear financial goals, take stock of their spending and tap into free city resources that can help them stretch every dollar and avoid costly mistakes.
At the top of the list is free one-on-one financial counseling through NYC Financial Empowerment Centers. These sessions can help residents lower debt, negotiate with creditors, understand credit reports, create spending plans, build or repair credit, open affordable bank accounts and start saving for emergencies and the future.
In 2025 alone, DCWP’s counseling services helped more than 10,000 New Yorkers reduce debt by $10.3 million and increase savings by $1.9 million. Appointments are available by calling 311 or visiting nyc.gov/TalkMoney.
“The penny may no longer be in circulation—but every cent still matters for hard-working New Yorkers juggling the cost of rent, groceries, childcare, student debt and medical bills. The good news is that no one needs to manage finances alone: DCWP is here to help you plan, save and reach your goals this new year,” said DCWP Commissioner Vilda Vera Mayuga.
The agency is also reminding residents not to leave money unclaimed during tax season. Eligible New Yorkers can file their 2025 taxes for free through NYC Free Tax Prep and claim credits like the Child Tax Credit, the Empire State Child Tax Credit and the Earned Income Tax Credit.
Changes in income, employment, or family size may make some filers newly eligible this year. Once tax season officially opens, families earning $97,000 or less, or individuals and couples without dependents earning $68,000 or less, can get help from IRS-certified volunteer preparers online or in person.
DCWP noted that the IRS Direct File pilot ended in Oct. 2025 and advised residents to check nyc.gov/TaxPrep in Jan. for updated, safe filing options. Freelancers, gig workers and small business owners can also access year-round tax help, including quarterly estimated payments and consultations. With the IRS no longer issuing paper check refunds for most filers, having a bank account is now essential.
Student loan management is another major focus. With payments resumed and rules continuing to evolve, DCWP’s Student Loan Assistance Program offers guidance to borrowers navigating repayment options. Borrowers who are delinquent or in default risk having their tax refunds seized, making it critical to address loan issues early.
The resolutions also highlight the importance of knowing workplace rights. The city’s Workers’ Bill of Rights outlines protections for employees and job applicants, regardless of immigration status, including paid sick leave, fair scheduling laws and protections for freelancers and delivery workers.
DCWP is urging caution with buy now, pay later services, warning that missed payments can lead to fees and higher overall costs. Regularly checking credit reports, opening safe and affordable bank account and creating realistic spending plans are also key steps toward financial stability.
The final recommendations focus on saving consistently, even in small amounts and protecting personal information from identity theft. DCWP said these resolutions are meant to help New Yorkers feel more confident and in control of their finances as the new year begins, with free help available across the city.
