Financial expert shares smart moves to make that can help reduce anxiety surrounding money during uncertain times

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Amid rising living costs, job uncertainty, and a government shutdown that recently crossed the one-month mark, many Americans are growing increasingly concerned about their finances.

The question on many minds: What should I do with my money right now?

Ashleigh Robinson with First Florida Credit Union spoke to News4JAX about tackling what experts call financial anxiety and making smart money decisions during uncertain times.

Whether saving for retirement or just trying to stay afloat, economic uncertainty can feel overwhelming. But financial experts emphasize this isn’t the time to panic or make drastic moves. Instead, it’s about planning ahead—especially if you expect a change in income.

Robinson advises, “So we recommend that you have at least six months of your essential expenses saved into an emergency savings account at all times.”

Data from Bankrate reveals many Americans don’t even have three months of expenses saved, and a significant number have no emergency savings at all. Robinson stresses that starting small is better than not starting at all.

“Putting away anything that you can now is going to help along the way. So if you do anticipate a layoff, a furlough or a loss of income and you can start putting away some money now, any little bit is going to help you to reduce the stress of that situation financially when it comes,” Robinson said.

An emergency fund can help cover essentials like housing, food, and bills while you figure out your next steps. Experts also recommend monitoring your credit and maintaining a healthy credit score.

“You want to make sure as part of your must-have payments that you’re making in addition to your housing, your transportation, your food, your phone, you’re also making payments toward those monthly debts that you may have,” Robinson adds.

For those facing tough financial choices—such as deciding between paying a bill or putting extra toward a credit card—Robinson recommends reviewing your budget carefully and cutting back wherever possible.

She also suggests reaching out to your bank or credit providers to explain your financial hardship and ask about options to lower payments or adjust terms.

By planning ahead and taking proactive steps, individuals can better manage financial anxiety and navigate uncertain economic times with greater confidence.