JACKSON, Tenn. (RFD-TV) — For farmers, understanding costs and break-even points is key, while families focus on saving and managing spending. University of Tennessee Extension experts are encouraging families to take control of their money in 2026. Charles Denney reports that even small savings can build habits that provide financial security.
Families like Autumn Raper’s in Jackson are navigating high consumer prices while working to watch their spending.
“It’s a struggle, but we’re making it,” Raper says. “I try not to deny them of all the things, but we have to say ‘no’ to some things. But we’re getting by.”
UT Extension agents, including Tennille Short, Ann Berry, and Chris Sneed, emphasize the importance of emergency savings.
“Many people think they can’t afford to save, but the truth is they can’t afford not to save,” Short says. “It’s the habit of saving. Even if you can only start by saving $10 a month, put that $10 away.”
Denney adds that having money in the bank can be “the best anti-stressor you can have,” allowing families to handle unexpected expenses like car repairs or medical bills without going into debt.
Sneed notes that an emergency fund helps families shift from reactive to proactive, while Berry highlights the growing problem of credit card debt, which totals $1.2 trillion in the U.S. and often carries interest rates above 20 percent.
UT Extension research also found that limited awareness of spending habits and reluctance to budget realistically are common challenges. However, experts say that with effort and intention, anyone can improve their financial situation, making the new year an ideal time to start.
Shaun Haney, host of RealAg Radio, joined us on Tuesday’s Market Day Report to discuss what holds farmers back from knowing their breakeven. In his interview with RFD-TV News, Haney explained the challenges of managing variable versus fixed costs and what factors make or break a farmer’s financial outcome from year to year.
