Leviling up in 2026 isn’t about luck or timing; it’s about making simple, tactical moves that work in the real world. From boosting your savings automatically to establishing smarter ways to manage everyday costs, Americans who are thriving right now are doing a few things differently. Here are six clever hacks they swear by, and how you can use them to stay one step ahead too.

1. Take control of debt before it controls you

High-interest debt doesn’t just eat into your budget; it limits your options. Real progress starts with taking back control and finding a plan that helps you move forward instead of feeling stuck. That’s why many people turn to JG Wentworth Debt Relief; by negotiating directly with creditors and setting up a monthly deposit into a client-owned, dedicated account, they help create a clear path forward.

With extensive experience in Financial Services and no upfront fees, the results of working with JG Wentworth can be life‑changing. Indeed, many find that JG Wentworth’s program provides a structured path to reduce eligible debts and work toward becoming debt‑free.¹

It’s simple and free to see if you qualify with JG Wentworth Debt Relief.

2. Use your home’s value to open new opportunities

If you own your home, you’re sitting on more potential than you might think. The equity you’ve built — the portion you truly own — can help you take on renovations, consolidate debt, or fund the next big milestone in your life.

With Point, checking what you could qualify for is quick and seamless. With clear terms, fast access, and no monthly payments in the case of an HEI (home equity investment), their online calculator shows how much equity you could access and what rates may be available — all without impacting your credit score.

For many homeowners, it’s one of the smartest ways to create flexibility and put their hard-earned equity to work.

Check your eligibility with Point today and see how much you could unlock.

Of course, staying ahead of the curve isn’t only about making more; it’s also about protecting what you’ve built. The next two hacks help you safeguard your money and avoid costly setbacks:

3. Get ahead of tax debt before it gets ahead of you

Owing back taxes can quietly chip away at your finances. The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to get back on track. But getting help doesn’t have to be complicated — and the smartest move is addressing it before it grows. That’s why many Americans are turning to the Tax Hardship Center, which works directly with the IRS to reduce balances, remove penalties, and set up affordable payment plans.

With an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and a 14-day money-back guarantee, the Tax Hardship Center can prove a straightforward way to take control of your finances and move forward with confidence.

See if you qualify today and take that first step toward resolving your tax debt.

4. Keep unexpected repairs from throwing off your plans

Even the best-planned budget can take a hit when the fridge stops cooling or the water heater gives out. The clever move is planning ahead, not waiting for something to break. That’s why millions of homeowners choose Choice Home Warranty to cover major repairs for a small service fee instead of a full replacement cost.

With more than two million homes protected and over 25,000 contractors in its network, Choice Home Warranty helps people stay ready for whatever household surprises come next. New customers can even get $75 off, plus one month free.

See available plans today and find out how much you could save on your next big repair.

Once you’ve protected what you own, the next step is freeing up more of your income — and that starts with tackling high-interest debt and everyday overspending:

5. Revisit your car insurance and stop paying more than you should

Car insurance is one of those bills most people set and forget, but the truth is, rates can change without you noticing. Shrewd drivers are checking for new, potentially superior quotes once a year to make sure they’re not overpaying for the same coverage.

With this online comparison tool, it only takes a few minutes to see what else is out there. Just answer a few quick questions, review your free quotes, and choose the policy that fits best. Many drivers save hundreds each year simply by taking the time to compare.

Compare rates now and see how much you could save.

6. Rethink where (and how) you bank to support better money habits

In the context of what came before on this list, reevaluating your banking setup may feel a little unglamorous, but it’s one of those small, easy-to-miss moves that can ultimately make everything else easier. Many online banks offer clearer visibility into balances, deposits, and savings all in one place, reducing friction in everyday money management.

As priorities shift over time, a banking setup that’s easier to manage and better aligned with your needs can quietly support more consistent financial routines, helping you stay organized, intentional, and focused on long-term goals with less effort.

So there you go! At the end of the day, getting ahead rarely comes down to one dramatic move; more often, it’s about making a handful of practical choices that remove friction from everyday life and following through on those choices consistently over time:

That’s the common thread behind these hacks smart Americans are already using.