Americans make financial resolutions but lack confidence about follow through

More than half of Americans made a financial New Year's resolution, but most don't think they'll stick with it.

A new study reveals a clear tension that so many Americans are facing right now. They want to save more money, pay down debt, and build better money habits. But fewer than half think they'll actually follow through.

According to Motley Fool Money's Financial New Year's Resolution Report, based on a survey of 2,000 U.S. adults in November 2025, paying off debt is the number one financial resolution of 2026. One quarter of adults say that's their main goal this year.

Younger Americans want to pay off student loans and buy now, pay later balances. While older Americans are more likely to want to be free of their mortgages.

But all generations are focused on their credit card balances, with 37% of debt-focused resolvers targeting it above everything else.

Credit card debt reached a record level in 2025, more than $1.2 trillion.

Financial experts say making a realistic budget is a good way to ensure you aren't wasting your money.

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