No one knows exactly how much interest rates will change or how much inflation will go up, but you always want to be strategic about where you put your hard-earned cash. Growing your wealth in 2026 may feel like a lofty goal when you are surrounded by economic uncertainty, but there are many metaphorical piggy banks in which you can put your pennies.
Instead of letting your money sit idle, it’s time to take control of your finances and make moves that maximize growth. Here are seven smart things to do with your savings right now to build wealth and secure your financial future.
1. Automate Your Savings
One of the best ways to grow savings is to set up a “pay yourself first” system if you haven’t already. A portion of each paycheck should automatically go to your savings accounts. It’s a smart savings strategy because it takes human error or forgetfulness out of the equation.
This way, you don’t even have to get into the habit of contributing to your savings. You don’t have to think about it, and you won’t be tempted to spend money that will be better used earning interest.
2. Maximize Your Retirement Contributions
You should always be aiming to max out retirement accounts like 401(k)s and IRAs. You’ll get the most benefit out of compounding interest and the tax advantages when you hit retirement age.
The contribution limit in 2026 for 401(k) plans is $24,500 for employees under 50, which is a $1,000 increase from 2025. The catch-up contribution for those 50 and older is $8,000, and the IRA contribution limit rises to $7,500. If you are going to follow a personal finance tip in 2026, maximizing the contribution is the best way to not leave money on the table.
So you’ll be able to invest a good chunk, and if your employer matches contributions, even better. You’ll want to take full advantage of any “free money” they offer and don’t leave any on the table.
3. Prepay Your Mortgage or Other Loans
It’s always a great idea to get rid of any debt you have as fast as you can, especially if you’ve been trying to figure out how to grow wealth in 2026. If you’re able, make bigger payments than you need to on your mortgage, car loan or student loans. You could save thousands in interest and get debt-free faster.
4. Put Your Cash in High-Yield Accounts
Shopping around for a good high-yield savings account is important if you’re wondering what to do with your savings. There are a lot of banks and credit unions out there that are online only, and they can offer higher interest rates than most brick-and-mortar banks. Every bank is different, and they all offer different perks and rates.
Some give you better rates for larger deposits, while others have great sign-up bonuses. So don’t put all your savings in one place. Open two to three accounts at different online banks. Then keep track of the different interest rates as they change, and move your money between them as needed so you’re always getting the best deal.
5. Buy I Bonds for Protection From Inflation
Maximizing savings during inflation protects your finances, and I Bonds are a kind of savings bond issued by the federal government that can help. The interest rate changes every six months to match inflation. This makes them perfect for protecting your savings from losing value.
You don’t need to watch the markets, worry about the interest rate impact on savings or make any decisions once you buy them. Just let them do their thing. The only catch is you need to hold them for at least one year, and if you cash out before five years, you’ll forfeit three months of interest. You can buy them through TreasuryDirect.gov.
6. Mix In Some CD Ladders
Another way to earn higher yields on your savings in 2026 is by putting some of your money into CDs (certificates of deposit). When you put your money into a CD, it earns interest throughout a set period, usually ranging from three months up to five years — the catch being that you can’t withdraw your money until the CD matures.
A CD ladder is a strategy that gives you some access to your money over time. Here’s how it works: You split your savings into equal portions. Then you put each portion into CDs with different maturity dates. When each CD matures, you can either reinvest it or use the money; this way, some of your money is always earning interest.
Different banks offer very different CD rates, so be sure to shop around. For perspective, the national average for a 1-year CD is about 1.94% APY, while the average for a 3-year CD is around 1.66% APY, and a 5-year CD is about 1.69% APY.
7. Get Into Real Estate
If you have more tolerance for risk during these quite tumultuous times, you might want to think about getting into real estate. However, you don’t have to deal with all the hassles of property ownership yourself. Instead, you can invest in either a real estate investment trust (REIT) or a real estate crowdfunding platform.
Both options are easy ways to get exposure to the real estate market. REITs are publicly traded companies that own and operate rental properties. You earn a portion of all the rental income the company collects, based on the number of REIT shares you own. Crowdfunding lets you go in on specific properties with other investors. You earn your share of the income when the property is sold.
Laura Beck contributed to the reporting for this article.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 7 Things To Do With Your Savings ASAP To Grow Your Wealth in 2026
