This article was last updated on March 14, 2022
Have you ever looked over your bank statement in horror? It’s way too easy to spend your paycheck frivolously, especially when you just want to have a good time. But with a few quick tips you can stop giving your money away — and you’ll have the extra cash to start relaxing a bit more often than you ever have before.
9 Easy Ways to Stop Giving Your Money Away
Cable or Streaming?
If you haven’t noticed, cable costs quite a bit of money. Maybe Downton Abbey does start up soon but it’s much more economical to sign up for a service like Hulu or Netflix. This will help you save $60+ a month on cable. Depending on the show, Hulu might even have it in the following week!
Amazon
Believe it or not, Amazon Prime might not be the best money-saving option on Amazon. There are also divisions like Amazon Mom where you get all of the same amazing Prime benefits, but also 20% off diapers and specialized deals and discounts. Make sure you explore the site and map out the best options for you.
Related: How To Invest Smart And Avoid Inflation
Happy Hour
Not all of us are capable of producing edible food in the kitchen, but eating out gets expensive. What’s even worse is how much it costs to have a few drinks with friends. The trick is to make sure that you catch a decent Happy Hour. Also try to sit at the bar — it generally has additional specials that the rest of the dining room doesn’t have access to. That $9 glass of wine might only cost $3 from 5 to 7 p.m.
Insurance
It really can pay to have insurance, and not just when something happens. Check with your insurance company to see if you can combine your life, auto and homeowners insurance for an additional discount. It wouldn’t hurt to shop around and make sure that you have the best coverage at the best cost, too. See also 4 Ways to Keep Your Wealth For Generations to Come.
The Cost of a New Car
There are times when a major purchase is unavoidable, and having a vehicle is often a necessity. When it comes time to buy a new car, make sure you do your research first. That Ford F-150 was a best-selling car in 2013, and it might make you feel like a beastly man. However, it isn’t the most economical vehicle in terms of upkeep. This doesn’t mean you have to buy a Prius, but you might want to consider other options.
Expiration Dates
Stop saving up those points. No really. You’re probably going to forget to use them. Coupons, Groupons, and rewards points often have expirations dates. If you have them, use them!
Grocery Cards
Grocery store points can really add up. Many grocery stores now have bonus cards connect to reward points at a local gas station. I only have a two-person household, and we still regularly get a dime or two off each gallon. If you’re regularly buying groceries for a four-person household then you’re missing out on a huge chunk of savings.
Student Loans
In addition to grocery stores, make sure you set up an account with Upromise. By shopping at certain stores, you’ll end up saving money that can either help you save for your kids’ college fund or help you pay off your own student loan debt. It’s free money. Why not?
Coffee
I’ll leave you with a gentle reminder that you don’t have to buy from the most expensive coffee shop on the block. Buy a French press and do your thing from home, then drink that delicious, freshly-pressed coffee while you’re buying tickets to your favorite show. Because you’re saving money, right?
Photo credit: Newton Free Library
