MARION, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—In an era of digital subscriptions and automated payments, the average consumer’s financial life can quickly become as cluttered as a hall closet. As 2026 gains momentum, Pillar Credit Union is encouraging residents to perform a “financial declutter” to regain control of their spending and security.

Financial experts say that “subscription creep”—the slow accumulation of small, monthly recurring charges—is one of the primary drivers of modern budget leaks. A recent study indicated that many consumers underestimate their monthly subscription spending by hundreds of dollars.

To help the community simplify their wallets, Pillar Credit Union recommends the following four-step audit:

1. Conduct a Subscription Audit Review the last three months of bank and credit card statements. Identify any recurring charges for apps, streaming services, or memberships that are no longer used. “If you haven’t logged in during the last 30 days, it’s likely time to cancel,” the spokesperson added.

2. Consolidate “Zombie” Accounts Many individuals have small balances sitting in old savings accounts or 401(k) plans from previous employers. Consolidating these into a single institution, like a local credit union, makes it easier to track net worth and simplifies tax preparation.

3. Digitalize and Secure Paper statements are not only a physical clutter issue but a security risk for identity theft. Switching to e-statements reduces mail volume and creates a searchable digital trail. Pillar Credit Union also recommends using a secure password manager to declutter the “mental load” of remembering dozens of financial logins.

4. Automate the Essentials Decluttering your schedule is just as important as decluttering your accounts. By automating utility bills and minimum loan payments, consumers can eliminate the stress of due dates and avoid late fees.

“Financial stress often comes from a feeling of being overwhelmed by details,” the Pillar representative said. “By narrowing your focus to fewer, more efficient accounts, you gain a clearer picture of your financial future.”

For residents looking for hands-on help, Pillar Credit Union offers personalized financial health check-ups and digital tools designed to simplify budgeting and savings.