Your Ultimate Guide to Financial Planning Month

It’s officially October! While this month is traditionally known for its cooler weather and pumpkin galore, it’s also Financial Planning Month. That means it’s a dedicated moment to take control of your financial future and set goals for the remainder of 2025.

This annual event could also not come at a better time. With the holidays quickly approaching, the money is about to start moving much faster than usual. Between travel, gifts, and seasonal events, budgets oftentimes stretch thin. 

As a result, without the proper oversight to reset your finances, overspending is almost inevitable.

“Financial Planning Month in October is a great opportunity to set aside time to focus on your financial future. Especially with the holidays falling shortly after it, there’s no other better time to take control of your money, set priorities, and build a strategy going forward. Beyond that, planning now allows you to enjoy the back portion of the year without the stress or the regret that comes later in January,” adds Michael A. Scarpati, CEO of RetireUS.

Scarpati is right, and the numbers back it up. Last year, Americans saw the holiday expenses at record highs. With roughly 36% of people incurring holiday debt—accumulating an average of $1,181—the money at this time of the year is understandably stressful. 

And as it seems again, current money patterns will continue to add pressure into the holidays here soon. But if you are one of those who is ready to celebrate Financial Planning Month the right way, now is your chance to make the financial shift.

 

It starts with financial consciousness

We know October gives us the opportunity to prevent financial burdens, but how exactly do you use this time to your advantage? 

First and foremost, it starts with something called “financial consciousness,” a concept that allows you to become aware of your money. Instead of simply planning, it means going about your finances with strategy so that you can set your financial life up for success.

Beyond awareness, it’s also about making the small changes to meet your long-term goals. This looks like:

• Assess where you stand.
  • It’s important to have a clear understanding of your current financial picture. Ask yourself: Where am I putting my money right now? What are my needs vs. wants? By knowing where you are first, this can allow you to redirect where your plan goes.
• Set the holiday boundaries now.
  • Decide how much you can realistically spend before the season begins. Factor in every expense from the gifts to the gatherings, and stick to this cap. If you name your limit ahead of time, you reduce the leftover implications come January.
• Build a physical plan.
  • Taking control of your finances means having a place to document where everything is flowing. As you spend, be sure to carefully track your expenses, whether that be in a calendar or online application, so that you can tangibly see what your budget looks like.
• Prioritize your larger bills.
  • Yes, the holiday budget is important, but it shouldn’t pause your existing bills. Aim to make space for your recurring expenses, even if that means taking one “holiday” item off of your list.
• Seek expert resources and advice.
  • If it comes down to it, it never hurts to seek extra resources or guidance from a professional. Financing is not for the weak, and remember that the support is there if you need it.

 

The action pays off

The beauty of taking preventive action now is twofold: you reduce stress later and you harness the power of intentionality. Remember, the slightest shifts can compound into thousands of dollars over time, and it’s no doubt you’ll feel the transformation the more you regain power to your own money.

Equally important, financial planning now sets you up for success later. Imagine approaching December with confidence, knowing you can enjoy the seasonal peace without worrying about what you spend. That’s the difference between experiencing the holidays with freedom versus carrying it over into the new year.

The bottom line? Financial Planning Month is your annual reminder to get situated and think ahead. Because the habits you start today will carry you through this holiday season and set the tone for a stronger 2026.

So, before the festivities take over, this is your call to look at your finances. Your future self will thank you for it.