(Helena) – Montana is now ranked seventh in the nation for fiscal health, continuing its steady rise from twenty-second place in 2021.
According to the 2026 Financial State of the States report by the non-partisan think tank Truth in Accounting, Montana improved its financial position for the fifth consecutive year.
The report notes that the state increased its available resources to meet obligations, primarily by using its Debt and Liability Free Fund to pay off outstanding bonds and reduce long-term debt.
The ranking follows a 2023 law signed by Governor Greg Gianforte (Jee-Un-For-Tay) aimed at eliminating the state’s general obligation debt, which officials say saved taxpayers 40 million dollars over two years.
Governor Gianforte attributes the top-ten ranking to responsible budgeting, stating that upcoming budget priorities will focus on boosting state reserves and continuing tax relief efforts. This fiscal improvement has occurred alongside a series of state tax cuts, including permanent income tax relief and property tax rebates enacted over the last three years.
