Life gets busy, and the cost of living keeps climbing. At Talk Money with Tish, we hear it all the time:

"Why does everything feel more expensive lately? Is there anything I can actually do about it?"

You’re not imagining it. From your grocery bill to your next big purchase, prices are rising — and tariffs are one of the hidden culprits. These economic policies can feel abstract, but they impact your day-to-day budget more than most people realize.

Let’s unpack what tariffs are, how they’re fueling inflation in 2025, and how to protect your money from the ripple effects.

What Are Tariffs and Why Should You Care?

A tariff is a tax placed on imported goods. Importers pay it upfront, but the cost usually trickles down to consumers like you in the form of higher prices. From smartphones to groceries to building materials, tariffs make everyday life more expensive.

Quick history: Tariffs used to be the U.S. government's main source of income before income taxes. Today, they’re used to protect local industries or gain leverage in trade negotiations — and they’re making waves in 2025.

What’s Going On with Tariffs in 2025?

The U.S. has significantly increased tariffs on Chinese imports — some as high as 100% — as part of new trade policy strategies. Key targets include:

• Consumer electronics (smartphones, laptops)

• Electric vehicles

• Steel and aluminum

• Solar panels

• Medical devices

Even if you’re not directly purchasing these goods, tariffs ripple through the economy. For example, a 25% tariff on imported aluminum raises the cost of soda cans, which means a six-pack of cola could cost 5–10% more at the store.

From Home Depot runs to weekly grocery trips, the impact adds up quickly — especially for middle-income families and small business owners.

What This Means for You: Inflation’s Silent Partner

Tariffs add fuel to inflation by making it more expensive to manufacture, distribute, and sell goods. You might be noticing:

• Higher household expenses — Food, technology, car repairs, and appliances cost more.

• Reduced purchasing power — Your paycheck doesn’t stretch as far.

• More economic uncertainty — Businesses may pass on costs, pause hiring, or delay investments.

And if you’re a business owner? You may be feeling the squeeze with rising supplier costs or shrinking margins.

5 Smart Steps to Stay Financially Strong

You can’t control tariffs, but you can strengthen your financial resilience. Here’s how:

1. Audit Your Budget
Inflation creeps in quietly. Revisit your expenses and find places to save. 

2. Boost Your Emergency Fund
Uncertainty makes a 3–6 month cash reserve more important than ever. Park your savings in a high-yield account.

3. Delay Major Purchases
Big-ticket items like cars and electronics may be inflated. If it’s not essential, consider holding off.

4. Rethink Your Supply Chain (for Business Owners)
Negotiate pricing, find local vendors, or take advantage of trade agreements like USMCA to cut import costs.

5. Invest Wisely
Work with your advisor to explore inflation-resistant assets like Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPS) or diversified domestic funds.

You’re Not Alone — Let’s Build Your Plan

Tariffs may not be in your control, but your plan for financial peace is. At Talk Money with Tish, we help:

• Individuals just getting started build solid foundations

• Families doing well but want more refine and grow their strategy

• Legacy builders preserve and protect what they’ve worked hard for

We’ll help you weather inflation, make smart money moves, and keep your financial future on track.

Your Goals Matter More Than the Headlines

The economy will keep shifting — but your plan doesn’t have to fall apart with it.

Let’s create a financial strategy that’s built to last.

Schedule a complimentary consultation with Tish and Christina today. Let’s build a financial house that stands strong — no matter the storm.