'What's Really Going To Mess With All Of Us Are The Tariffs' Suze Orman Outlines 4 Steps To Brace For Trump's Tariffs

As new tariffs announced by the Trump administration prepare to take effect, financial expert Suze Orman is urging everyday Americans to get ahead of the impact. Orman, speaking on her "Women & Money" podcast, warned that the new trade restrictions could raise prices across many everyday goods — and strain household budgets already stretched by inflation.

While stock markets reacted with steep losses following the announcement, Orman says there's no need to panic — if you take steps to protect yourself now. Here are four actions she recommends.

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1. Know Where Your Money Is Going

Orman's first piece of advice is simple: start with awareness. She encourages everyone to review their bank and credit card statements line by line.

"Is your money going to groceries? Is it going to Amazon? Is it going to eating out?" she asks. "I want you to know the categories where a price hike is going to hit you the hardest." As tariffs increase prices on imported goods, understanding your spending habits will help you adjust accordingly.

If you're already living paycheck to paycheck, even small price hikes can create financial strain. Orman urges people to cut back in the categories where tariffs will hit hardest, rather than continuing to spend blindly.

2. Stock Up on Essentials

Next, Orman suggests stocking up on non-perishables before prices rise further. This includes everyday items like paper towels, detergent, toiletries, and pet food.

"Now I’m not telling you to go and be a hoarder, but I am telling you if you know you’ll need it anyway, and it’s not going to spoil, believe it or not, Suze Orman wants you to buy it now," she said. 

Orman cautions not to go into debt in order to stock up on these items. Buying now only helps if you can afford it without putting the expense on a high-interest credit card.

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3. Time Major Purchases—But Don't Overspend

Thinking about buying a fridge, laptop, or other big-ticket item? Orman says now may be the time, before tariffs push prices up further.

But again, she draws a firm line: only make the purchase if you have the cash or a 0% interest financing plan you can pay off on time. "Do not go into debt to buy something," she warns.

Smart timing — paired with discipline — can help you get ahead without sacrificing long-term financial health.

4. Protect Your Emergency Fund

If you haven't built an emergency fund yet, Orman says this is the time to start. She recommends setting aside eight to 12 months of essential expenses in a high-yield savings account.

With potential job disruptions or continued inflation, having cash on hand is critical. "I’ve been telling you this forever because it’s your buffer," she says. "It's your peace of mind."

And if you already have an emergency fund? Don't touch it unless absolutely necessary. Think of it as your financial safety net.

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Bonus Tip: Keep Investing — Wisely

Orman also recommends reviewing your investment portfolio. If you're heavily invested in sectors that rely on global supply chains — like tech or auto — you may want to rebalance.

Diversification, she says, is key. And if you're still years away from retirement, she advises to keep contributing regularly to your retirement accounts. In a volatile market, dollar-cost averaging can help you buy more shares when prices are low — building long-term wealth.

The Bottom Line

With tariffs taking effect, Orman says preparation is more important than ever. By taking stock of your spending, timing your purchases, and protecting your savings, you can face economic uncertainty with confidence.

"The government can't save you, the economy can't save you," she says. "Only you are going to save yourself."

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