By Obaid Haleem, Branch Manager at Citi Jeffery Manor

Summer often brings sun-soaked adventures, weekend getaways, and spontaneous splurges, but it doesn’t have to derail your financial goals. Smart budgeting doesn’t require drastic changes or high-effort strategies. It simply requires a shift in mindset and a few low-lift habits to help build financial resilience while still enjoying the season.

Automate to Accumulate
One of the easiest and most effective ways to grow your savings – even during the spend-heavy summer – is automation. By setting up an automatic transfer from your paycheck into your savings account, you create a “set it and forget it” system that works quietly in the background. Start with a small amount; even $10 or $20 each pay period adds up over time. Citi’s Ways to Save program, including our Earn and Save option, makes this especially simple by allowing clients to divert a portion of their income into a savings goal of their choice.

Embrace Found Money
Summer often comes with unexpected income: a bonus at work, a tax refund, or even a birthday check from a relative. Rather than absorbing that money into your day-to-day spending, make it a habit to funnel windfalls straight into your emergency fund or another form of savings. It’s a painless way to bulk up your savings without touching your regular budget.

Cut Back Without Cutting Out
Contrary to popular belief, staying on a budget doesn’t mean giving up everything you love. It means spending mindfully. Know your “needs” and “wants” i.e., what is important to spend on and what is not. Review your recurring expenses: Are there streaming services or subscription boxes you’re not using? Canceling unused services and transferring those funds into savings is a powerful yet low-effort tactic. You can also make tiny swaps, like opting for a home-cooked picnic instead of a pricey brunch or carpooling to summer events. These small changes add up fast and can even make summer more meaningful.

Let Technology Work for You
Citi’s digital tools, including our Ways to Save platform, help clients align savings strategies with their lifestyle. Whether you want to round up purchases to the nearest dollar and save the change or automate specific transfers based on your goals, our suite of services can be tailored to you.

In short, budgeting during the summer isn’t about deprivation – it’s about intention. With the right tools and mindset, you can enjoy all the season has to offer while building a solid emergency fund. By keeping your strategy simple and consistent, you’ll set yourself up for success not just this summer, but all year long. Obaid Haleem manages Citi’s new branch in Jeffery Manor, located at 2065 E 95th St. Chicago, IL 60617.