Happy New Year! The January 2026 update brings you helpful advice, timely insights, and resources you need to know as the year begins in earnest.

What’s included: A “valuable reminder,” Teen Driving Awareness Month, Dave's Corner, and our January article roundup.

Were you surprised — or did you surprise someone — with a high-value holiday gift? Or are you preparing for a Valentine’s Day to remember?

Whether it’s an engagement ring or a designer good, a new valuable item deserves strong protection. Below are a few general reminders.

1. Document the purchase. Keep receipts and take photos of your gift. Detailed records will make the process easier if you need to file a claim.

2. Get an appraisal. An appraisal can help accurately determine the worth of high-value items like jewelry or art.

3. Always inform your insurance agent. Let us know about any new, high-value items in your home, ideally as soon as you purchase them. We will update your policy accordingly or guide you through the best coverage options if your current coverage does not offer adequate protection.

4. Store it securely. Until you give the gift, keep it in a safe place, such as a home safe or a secure storage area, to prevent theft or damage.

Here are a few key dates and reminders to keep in mind this month.

• January is Teen Driving Awareness Month. This annual awareness month highlights the risks teen drivers face. Have a teen driver in your life? The NHTSA offers a great online resource for you and your teen to review

• January 10th is National Vision Board Day. What better way to start the new year than with a set vision for what you want out of 2026? Take this opportunity to build your vision board — or explore the “punch card” trend taking over social media!

• January 12th is National Clean Your Desk Day. If you’re anything like us, your desk can’t wait for a spring clean! Good thing there’s a day in January dedicated to a desk refresh.
• January 19th is Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Join us in taking a moment this day to honor the life and legacy of Dr. King.
• Jan. 25-31 is National Financial College Prep Week. Here’s a helpful resource for guardians — whether your student is in elementary or high school — and for adult students.

10 Things to Do Differently With Your Money in 2026

Key Takeaways

• Creating and living on a budget helps you stay in control and fight back against the pressure of inflation.
• Paying off debt and watching your online spending frees up your income and keeps your goals in focus.
• A fully funded emergency fund and steady investing provide long-term stability even in uncertain times.
• If you’re financially ready, don’t wait on market trends—buy a home with confidence and a clear plan.

A referral is the highest compliment you can give us! To show our appreciation for every referral we enter your name into our monthly drawing. You could win gift cards or cash. Also, for every referral that you send to Allco Insurance, that writes a policy with us, we donate $10 to Stripes of a Warrior. Stripes of a Warrior is a great cause that we support wholeheartedly. They will provide financial assistance to those that have been diagnosed with cancer and are unable to afford their housing, medical bills, medication, or food expenses. Referrals have helped raise over $28,000 in the past 9 years for Stripes of a Warrior. To learn click HERE.

We’ve gathered a few seasonal reads to help you get ready for the new year.

• Girl Scout Cookie season is here! Learn about the new flavor, sure to be a favorite among ice cream lovers.

• Trying to make your New Year’s Resolution stick this year? Read behavioral science-backed tips in this interview featured in the Scientific American.

• Feeling a little sluggish after the holidays? Calm shares simple, soothing ways to cope with the January blues and reset your mindset.

• A fresh start feels easier with a plan. This guide breaks down a practical “January reset” with actionable time management tips to help you feel organized and motivated.

• New year, new recipes. Taste of Home rounded up fresh New Year’s recipe ideas that are perfect for trying something new in 2026.

Spring is almost here … right?

Wishing you a productive start to the new year! If you have any insurance questions or want to start the new year confident in your coverage, we’re just a call or email away.