Sponsored by: Intuit For many, it is an era of economic uncertainty. With the rising cost of housing, food utilities and a rapidly changing job market, the financial stress can be real. A recent study from Intuit found that 61% of Americans are feeling the pinch. For 21% of those surveyed, they report that their financial situation has gotten worse compared to last year. Consumer Trend Expert at Intuit Marissa Cazem joins our Laura Cavanaugh to share how to take control of your money and start the year off right. As we enter the new year, with new resolutions and fresh hope for financial success in the year ahead, Intuit has some eye-opening revelations from their recent study. Some of the top financial stressors reported were rising rent, housing costs and job instability. Cazem recommends you start with baby steps by reviewing accounts and charges on Finance Fridays, while also eliminating subscriptions. Saving is also important to financial wellness. She says creating an emergency fund will help create a cushion for unexpected emergency expenses. More than 66% of respondents to the Intuit survey reported that they are either already doing a side hustle or planning to engage in a side hustle for an added income stream in 2025. Money is no longer a taboo conversation. Cazem says talk to family, friends and mentors about their financial journey for their perspective. For more tips and information, go to the intuit blog at www.intuit.com/blog