Small changes can make a big difference.
Smallchange, like pennies, can make a big difference, too.
No, saving money doesnt always demand a grand gesture,like extreme couponing or living off the grid.
monkeybusinessimages/Getty Images
It can be simpler than that.
You dont need to implement each of these 353 pieces of advice today.
Instead, bookmark this page, and use it as needed.
Turn it into a challenge.
Because, just like the electric bill and phone service, we need it, right?
Probably not as good as youd like.
It always seems like an uphill battle to build (and keep) a decent amount in savings.
But what if your car breaks down, or you have a sudden medical bill?
Did you know?
you could Get Paid Up to $140/Month Just for Sharing Your Honest Opinion
Car insurance companies dont care.
Its available in California, Illinois, New Jersey, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Virginia and Washington.
Plus youll get a free $10 gift card to Walmart for giving the site a try.
Before heading to the store, search for items on your shopping list within the Ibotta app.
When you get home, snap a photo of your receipt and scan the items barcodes.
Ibotta is free to download.
Plus, youll get a $10 sign-up bonus after uploading your first receipt.
Share a Snapshot of Your Fridge
Remember the Nielsen company?
The one thats always tracked TV ratings?
Well, it wants to know whats in your fridge.
Start by getting a free credit report card over atCredit Sesame.See what bang out of debt youve got lingering.
Credit Sesame offers personalized tips to help you increase your score.
If youre in that boat, consolidation and refinancing might be worth a look.
It works with Comcast, Time Warner, Charter and other major providers.
Just sign up with Facebook or your email address.
Then, upload a PDF of your most recent bill, and Trims system gets to work.
Itll take 25% of the savings tab as a commission, but the rest is yours.
Turn Your Spare Change Into Hefty Savings (and Pocket $5)
Remember the good ol days?
When we had spare change that wed funnel into a coin jar then cash out?
Once the change adds up to $5, itll go in your Acorns investing account.
Plus, youll get a $5 bonus just for signing up.
Jeremy Kolodziej used Acorns to save up for vacation.
In 20 months, he put away $1,000 without thinking about it.
But there are creative ways to boost your bottom line.
Especially because I dont have a lot.
I dont want to give somebody $500, especially for something I can control and do.
She bet $500, and if she hits her goal, she could pocket $862.
Fiona searches the top online lenders to match you with a personalized loan offer in less than 60 seconds.
Plus, if your guaranteed shipment shows up late,Capital One Shopping will help you get compensated.
Disclosure:Capital One compensates us when you sign up using the links we provide.
You wont get metallic foil stuck under your fingernail.
Hide Your Money in Real Estate Investments
Tuck your money away, and watch it grow.
Oh, and you dont have to have hundreds of thousands of dollars, either.
you could get started with a minimum investment of just $500.
A company called Fundrise does all the heavy lifting for you.
Our favorite genre?The cooking tutorials.
Get ideas for simple dinners while also getting paid.
Add $5 to Your Savings for a Morale Boost
Heres a survey site we like:PrizeRebel.
You wont get rich using PrizeRebel, but its a legit site weve tried it ourselves.
It just takes a few minutes toget a free 401(k) analysis.
Bonus: Penny Hoarders get the first month free with the code PNNYHRD.
It removes a lot of the hassle of selling things online and its 100% free to use.
Drive Around Town
Need a fun, flexible way to earn money while also meeting lots of new people?
Demand for ride-sharing has been growing like crazy, and it shows no signs of slowing down.
Wetalked to Paul Pruce, whos been driving full-time withLyftfor over a year.
He earns $750 a week as a driver.
Best of all, he does it on his own time.
it’s possible for you to work days, nights or weekends its up to you!
Because its easy to switch between apps, Lyft drivers often alsosign up to drive with Uber.
Heres what it’s crucial that you qualify:
And just like that, the bonus cash is yours.
Earn Extra Money by Listing a Spare Room
Have a spare room?
Might as well take a stab at earn some money bylisting it on Airbnb.
And theres no reason you cant be creative.
We talked to Terence Michael, an Airbnb superhost based in Los Angeles whoshared lots of clever tips.
Plus,you get a $5 bonus when you sign upandearn 2,500 SB within your first 60 days.
If youre sitting in line or on the subway why not?
Youll snag a $5 bonus when you complete your first five surveys.
Bonus: Use the codeFREE5 for an extra $5 on your order.
Digitis an app that automatically determines that number for you and adjusts it as needed.
amounts of money you’ve got the option to afford to put aside.
Itll stash this money away in an FDIC-insured account.
Bonus: Penny Hoarders get an extra $5 when they sign up.
Make a Mindless $36/Year Shopping on Amazon
Love Amazon?
Plus, youll still get points for taking surveys even if you dont qualify to take the whole survey.
The folks who createdLong Gamehave you covered with a game thats fun and helps you achieve your financial goals.
As you save and accomplish missions, youll earn coins to play mini games for cash prizes!
Were talking the classics, like slot machines, scratch-offs and spin-to-win wheels.
Spin the Cashout Wheel
Survey Junkiesclean look keeps you motivated to take as many surveys as you want.
Its relatively quick to reward you with points once youve completed a survey.
Cash in on Your Smartphone Addiction
Lets be real: That phone habit is hard to break.
So you might as well make some money while youre scrolling instead oftotallywaste your time.
For qualifying devices, itll even send you a free box for shipping.
Sure, she was saving energy and perhaps some money on utilities but she was also making money throughOhmConnect.
OhmConnect is anenergy-saving platform.When you save energy during a designated #OhmHour, you could get paid.How?
OhmConnect sells the electricity youre saving back to the grid.
The money earned goes directly to you.
Flip on Your Ceiling Fans in the Winter
Sure, we love our ceiling fans in the summer.
They help keep the cold air circulating like a cool breeze.
Some of them you want.
Some of them you dont even remember signing up for.
Its free to submit your bill; Truebill just keeps 40% of your savings for the first year.
This in-home assessment will help see to it your house is as energy efficient as possible.
If you want to perform your own energy audit, there are somesimple DIY measuresyou can take.
Drop a Brick in Your Toilet
Not like that, guys.
The $10 three-pack can potentially save you $35 a year.
Cut the Cord
This trick is an oldie but goodie.
If you have pets or allergies, you might want to change it more often.
Consider the Condenser Coils
Ah, your refrigerators condenser coils.
Whens the last time you cleaned those suckers?
(Have you even heard of them?)
The condenser coils help keep your fridge cool by releasing heat from the compressor.
President of Sears Home Services Chris Granger suggestscleaning the coilstwice a year with a vacuum and coil brush.
An occupancy sensor costs about $14 on Amazon.
If a room is empty for a few minutes, the lights will shut off.
Then when someone strolls in, cue the lights.
Adjust Your Water Heater tweaks
Whens the last time you checked your water heater tweaks?
Typically, water heaters are set to 140 degrees, reports Penny Hoarder contributor Scott Alan Turner.
Switching to energy-efficient light bulbs can save you $75 a year.
Trim Your Hedges
To run efficiently and save you money your air conditioning needs to breathe.
Wash Everything on Cold
Washing clothes in hot water is going to cost more money.
Plus, youre risking shrinking your entire wardrobe.
Unless something isreallydirty, opt for the cold-water parameters to save some money.
Throw a (Clean) Tennis Ball in the Dryer
Ideally, you live on a hillside.
A laundry line hangs between two oak trees, and your fresh cotton linens dry in the breeze.
Itll help your load dry faster by keeping the air circulating and the clothes from clumping.
Be as Smart as Your Smart Thermostat
If you have a smart thermostat, awesome.
However, you might be using it incorrectly.
Thats about $173 a year.
Penny Hoarder Lisa Rowan put together some tips to help usersbetter understand their smart thermostats.
For example, Florida Power & Light offers a time of use rate.
With the promotion in hand, give your provider a call.
Use the discount as leverage to get a better rate.
Talk to Utility Companies on Twitter
Still got that rogue Twitter account floating around?
Use it to your advantage by tweeting at companies to negotiate your bill.
Thats what Joel Larsgaard from the Pour Not Poor podcast does.
Stop Being Allergic to Budgets
Budgets are horrifying.
Riddled with formulas and numbers, they tend to feel suffocating and restricting.
Overcome your fear and create a simple50/20/30 budget.
Allot 50% of your monthly take-home income to the essentials, including rent, utilities and groceries.
Then 20% goes toward improving your financial health; use it toward investing, saving and reducing debt.
The final 30% is yours to spend on dining out, vacationing or just-for-fun shopping.
How much is your rent?
And how much do you spend at restaurants each month?
Yeah, you probably dont want to ask your friend or co-worker these questions; theyll avoid you forever.
It anonymously compares your finances with those in similar situations.
See how you stack up and if you might be overdoing it in the shopping category, for instance.
If thats the case, adjust your budget accordingly.
Start Journaling
Youve heard of bullet journaling, right?
The creative hobby thats taken over Instagram and Pinterest?
Capitalize on the trend and use it to track your spending, savings and debt-repayment plan.
Penny Hoarder Grace Schweizer says she was able to spot her problem areas after a week of use.
Peek at her favoritebullet-journaling tactics.
Instead of combing through your monthly bank statements, use a Facebook Messenger bot namedCharlie.
Luckily, I canceled the account and Amazon reimbursed me.
Step 1: Pick a month or even year.
Penny HoarderJamie Cattanach chose Novemberin hopes of taming her holiday spending.
Step 2: Dont spend money on nonessentials during the freeze.
Sure, itll be difficult; youll face temptations.
But Cattanach finished the challenge and saved at least $600 in one month.
Freeze Your Credit… Cards
Youve heard the whole freeze your credit advice.
We agree: Its a smart practice.
But so that save money, freeze your credit cards.
Literally in the freezer theyll go.
Try Starving and Stacking
Dont worry.
you’re able to still eat.
The starve and stack budgeting method is geared toward couples, especially newlyweds.
Couples combine their finances and live exclusively off one income for 18 to 24 months.
Use the additional income to invest, establish a rainy day fund and pay off debt.
Thats what Penny Hoarder Jen Smith did.
Listen to Podcasts and Read Books
One way to feel more comfortable about your finances?
Cozy up With Excel We Know Its Been a While
Listen.
Excel is intimidating, but tons of resources can help you become more comfortable with the powerful budgeting tool.
If you dont have Microsoft Office, use Google Sheets for free.
Take some time to play around.
Google Sheets even gas already-made budgeting templates for you.
It helped her family save 60% of their annual income.
Use up Your Entire Paycheck
Nope.
Dont cash that thing and head straight for the Whole Foods cheese section.
How much do you (or dont you) have remaining?
Then, consider your financial goals.
Do you want to save money?
Work backward to cut your expenses until you’re able to achieve that goal.
It might take some patience, but itll pay off.
Its a simple, mindless way to squirrel some money away.
I opened a high-yield savings account through Goldman Sachs.
Because she cant see the money, she doesnt miss it.
If the account earns you interest or offersa big sign-up bonus, even better.
It was absolutely dreadful work for him.
Now, were not saying only eat soggy leftovers all week.
Then, only spend that throughout the week.
Once the cash is gone, its back to leftovers.
Practice Kaizen
In Japanese,kaizenmeans improvement.
Basically, its the practice of continuous improvement.
Penny Hoarder Steven Gillman suggestsapplying kaizen principlesto your personal finances.
Then, he sold his home for a solid profit.
Its all about the baby steps.
Invest in Envelopes
Buy a box of envelopes.
Now stuff some cash inside each one.
Then, stuff each envelope with your spending limit.
This budgeting method helps you be more mindful of your spending and keeps you above the red.
What do we mean?
Take inventory of whats already in stock, then build your weekly meals around those items.
This will not only help reduce your weekly grocery bill also cut your waste.
Buy Your Meat in Bulk
Whens the last time you checked out your local wholesale meat supplier?
Yeah, maybe never.
But Penny Hoarder contributor Shannon Quinn buys her meat in bulk from her local supplier.
She suggests searching your states suppliers via theWholesale Meat Supplier Directory.
Download Store Loyalty Apps
Does your preferred grocery store have an app?
Itll probably help you save.
You cansave at Walmart, for example, using its Savings Catcher app.
you might make a shopping list, check in-store and online prices and peek at the weekly ad.
Print Your Own Free Coupons
Traditionally, we flipped through circulars in search of coupons.
Now you’ve got the option to just go online.
There are a number ofsites that offer free printable coupons.
Its much more simple than breaking out the scissors and giant binder!
Some veggies require more time, attention and money upfront.
Be Wary of Bulk Foods
Bulk isnt always better.
That modest two-pack of peanut butter might actually be more cost-effective than that full crate.
Plus, it wont take up as much pantry space.
To check unit prices, simply divide the price by the items quantity.
(These are also often listed on the price tags at the grocery store.)
Practice Meatless Mondays
Meat is expensive.
Swear off Bottled Water
Plastic bottles are bad for the environment, and theyre bad for your wallet.
But some of us dont live in areas with great tap water.
(Yeah, lets be real.
The tap water smells bad in Florida.)
Buy Your Groceries Online
These days, the internet makes anything possible including grocery shopping online.
If you fancy Amazon, see whether Amazon Prime Fresh is available in your neck of the woods.
Similar to grocery-delivery services,online grocery shopping will help you compare prices and ease those impulse purchases.
Amazon also has abulk section(but check unit prices!)
as well asAmazon-online couponsposted each week.
Eggs are a great example of how these labels can be misleading.Cage-free eggs?
Sure, cages arent technically involved, but chickens might still be stacked in multi-level aviaries.Organic eggs?
The hens are fed organic feed, farmed without pesticides.
Theres no requirement the chickens are outside.
Learnwhat the labels actually meanbefore spending extra.
Or those french fries.Oooohh,a Chick-fil-A milkshake… You get the point.
You might even be willing to spend more for foods youre craving.
To find CSA programs near you, the USDA hasa searchable database.
Break off Your Long-Term (Grocery) Relationship
Grocery store loyalty runs deep.
But when was the last time you gave another store a chance?
Penny Hoarder Kelly Smith always loved Winn-Dixie.
But last year she checked out Trader Joes and ended up calculating about $57 in monthly savings.
Thats nearly $680 a year.
Dont Forget Your Grocery List
Youre thinking,Duh, Penny Hoarder.
But lets be real: This happens all too often.
Then youre left flailing through the aisles wondering what the heck you planned for Wednesdays dinner.
Its time to step up your grocery list game.
Keep your list stored in your phones notes app.
This allows you to add items and move them around, according to their location in the store.
There are also free apps thatll help you keep track, likeOut of Milk.
Adopt Some Feathery Friends
If your town allows for backyard chickens, consider these feathery pets a money-saving investment.
Rain Turnerbought two chickens from her local pet store $6 each.
Her chicken Blackstar lays an egg each day and averages about two dozen a month.
Penny Hoarder Jamie Cattanach ran throughseveral scenarios (if you have a family, buy organic, etc.)
tosee whether the membership is worth itfor you.
If you do opt in, check that you know about all its perks.
Read the fine print.
And a lot of times it is… if youre solely considering the shelf price.
However,many times the store brand doesnt qualify for coupons, members-only discounts or rebates through cash-back apps.
Shop for Food Seasonally
Shopping at your local farmers market can save you a crop of money.
Because the items are in season.
The key is tocreate a meal planthat works for you.
Consider how many meals you need and how many mouths youre feeding.
Yeah, you probably wouldnt.
If you havent yet, stop by your local Asian grocery store.
Penny Hoarder contributor Susan Shaincompared prices.
At a traditional grocery store, she would spend $35.74 for stir-fry ingredients.
At the Asian grocery store, her tab was $19.88 a 44% savings.
), leave about an inch of stalk above the roots.
Stick the nubs in a small glass of water and watch them regrow!
Eat Weeds
Whens the last time you foraged for food?
Penny Hoarder contributor Ellen Zachos listsfive wild weedsthat can replace pricy grocery store greens.
Master the Grocery Stores Mind Games
Grocery stores are good at playing mind games.
Maybe as good as your ex.
Get to knowthese sneaky grocery store tactics.
Decode Your Foods Sell-By Dates
One of our favorite ways to save money at Walmart?
Buy the day-old bread for $1.
The same goes for any other grocery store.
Understandingsell-by and use-by datescan save you a bundle and help eliminate food waste.
The best if used by label indicates when a manufacturer recommends you consume a product by for peak quality.
A past date doesnt necessarily mean the food is bad.
Sure, it doesnt seem like much, but itll add up.
If youre always forgetting your grocery bags, employ a new tactic to help you remember.
Or invest in a cheap keychain to attach to your keys.
I have one from Publix.
Its literally a tiny reusable green bag that says, Dont Forget Your Bags.
Store Your Food Properly
Common scenario: You throw the apples in a basket.
Grapes on the bottom shelf of the fridge, alongside the carrots.
Take, for example, onions.
Dont store your onions in direct sunlight.
If you really want to get creative, put them in a tied-off pantyhose.
But whens the last time you checked out the food selection?
Thats what Laura Hamilton did.
Bybartering for food, she was able to save $750 on groceries in just a few months.
Keep a Quarter on Hand at This Grocery Store
Pop a quarter into an Aldi cart to release.
Youll get it back at the end of your haul.
Aldi is notorious for its affordable price.
If you havent given it a try, we put togethera first-timers shopping guide.
Prepare Your Produce on Sunday
Lets admit it.
We all get a little lazy and tired during the week.
Ask Brands for Coupons
Did you know it’s possible for you to ask brands for coupons?
And they just might email you some.
Penny Hoarder Mike Brassfield reached out to 100 brands.
Of the 100,42 sent him coupons just for asking!
Well, that varies person to person.
But as youve seen, housing prices can be hefty.
Plus, you have all those unexpected expenses that come with homeownership.
Penny Hoarder contributor Steven Gillmanexplores the question more in-depth.
Some complexes will cover the first month of rent or the first three months of cable, for example.
Even if the complex isnt advertising a special, inquire!
If youre interested in doing the same, we put togethera few tipsto help you gain leverage.
Start byasking the right questions:What are the additional move-in feels?
Is renters insurance required?
Who handles emergency repairs?
Downsize Your Living Situation
We all know downsizing can save you money.
Fort Wayne, Indiana.All made it ontoour list of affordable citiesexperiencing big growth.
Shejoined a housing co-opand lives in a room in a shared house.
In total, Barry-Garland is saving $4,560 a year.
Consider Commonspace, located in downtown Syracuse, New York.
It offers 21 furnished, 300-square-foot studio units.
Each has a kitchenette and bathroom.
Rent ranges $800 to $975 a month.
(The median rent in Syracuse is $1,350.)
Find a Rental Referral
Many apartments offer referral rewards.
However, many dont advertise them.
Right now, Rentgrata is available in Chicago and its suburbs but has plans to expand.
Otherwise, do an online search for apartment referral programs available in your area.
In return, she and her daughter lived rent-free.
Refinance Your Mortgage
If youre paying a monthly mortgage, consider refinancing.
If the market has changed or your credit score has increased, you could get a better rate.
Put More Than 20% Down When You Buy a House
PMI stands for Private Mortgage Insurance.
… or Build a Debt Snowball
Ah, yes.
The idea is that youre taking baby steps and showing yourself you canactuallydo this.
Thats in part how Elisabeth Nyangmanaged to fix her credit.
She had an outstanding cell phone bill erased from her credit report because of unethical practices by debt-collection agencies.
Apply for Student Loan Forgiveness
Many of us have student loan debt.
See if you could qualify forstudent loan forgivenessif you work in public service.
Basic requirements include:
Additionally, if youve already applied and were denied then you could potentiallyappeal your denial.
Making his $245 monthly payments proved difficult.
After applying to an income-based plan, his payments dropped to $38 a month.
First, check to confirm your loan wont penalize you for paying off early.
Then, startmaking some extra income.
Put that toward your debt payments.
Open a Balance Transfer Card
Whats your credit card interest rate like?
The average credit card carries nearly a 17% interest rate, according toCreditCards.com.
If youre stuck in the endless cycle of interest, consider transferring your balance to a zero-interest credit card.
Keep an eye open for the fine print.
Fees and time limits might apply.
If youre interested, read -interest credit cards.
Even so, they managed to save $11,500 in a year.
Penny Hoarder contributor Jamie Cattanach alsoconsidered whether or not to sell her car.
She weighed the pros and cons of each.
Rent out Your Car
Want to make money with your car… but not keen on playing taxi?
Let folks rent your car when youre not using it.
Thats more than $3,000 a year.
Avoid this expense when you work from home.
We put together a list ofwork-from-home job-search sites.
Buy Your Next Car at an Auction
Did you know you might buy a car for $400?
Read Dows five tips beforeplacing a bid at your local car auction.
Buy a Used Car…
…without getting used.
Its a Carvana vending machine.
Carvana is one of severalonline-only car dealers.
Youll want to call your dealership first or check online for details.
That doesnt count deductibles or extra car parts.
So is it worth it?
Penny Hoarder contributor Susan Shain doesnt think so.
Of those who purchased one, only 45% used it, according to that same survey.
Treat Your Car Loan Like a Mortgage
Pay extra when it’s possible for you to.
That comes out to 13 total payments a year and will be more bite-sized.
you’re free to find these at auto-parts stores or online.
Oh, and each one containstonsof photos for you visual learners.
Theres also YouTube to help guide you through basic maintenance and repairs.
Prepare Your Car for Each Season
The weather can be rough on your car.
Depending on where you live, youll want to prepare for each season especially duringsnowy wintersandhurricane-y summers.
Pro tip: Invest in a few power strips.
Honolulu and D.C. follow, at $70 a month.
Hop on Your Motorized Bike…
…or a regular bike works, too.
But one Penny Hoarder got a little more creative.
Branndon Coelho boughtan electric biketo expedite his five-mile commute to work.
In his first year of use, he estimated hed save up to $2,212.
Parking would cost $180 a month and gas would total about $80 a month.
They decided tocarpool into downtown together, which saved them more than $3,000 a year.
If you dont know someone you might carpool with, look intoWaze Carpool.
Sometimes she even manages to get her gas free paying only taxes.
She put together a list of21 grocery stories with gas reward programs.
Download GasBuddy
GasBuddy is a free app that helps you find the cheapest gas nearby.
In April, it also reportedgas prices were up, so yeah.
All the more reason to download its app.
Join a Buy-Nothing Group
Have you happened upon your townsBuy Nothing Group?
These are hyperlocal groups that operate under a gift economy.
That means no one buys anything hence its name.
Buy Returned or Used Appliances
Wherever you go to buy a new appliance, call ahead.
Ask if the store has any used or returned appliances stashed away.
Penny Hoarder contributor Steve Gillman says he bought a nearly new washer and dryer for $90.
It was discounted after someone had returned it.
Best yet, the two-year guarantee still applied.
Think Through That Extended Protection Plan
Does your appliance need extended protection?
Consumer Reports says, no,its not worth it.
Know Whats Worth Fixing and Whats Worth Ditching
Waterlogged tablet and smartphone?
Probably better off not tinkering with it yourself.
Youll want to ask yourself a few questions before giving up on its life.
Google will help you figure out if theres a repair cafe near you.
Or become obsessed with Pottery Barns farmhouse chic furnishings.
But chances are, you’re able to make these pieces yourself.
He spent $73 on materials and made his own instead of dropping $1,650 at Ballard Designs.
Here are a few of our favorite hacks:
151.
Buy a Mattress in a Box
Mattresses are an expensive but necessary household purchase.
If you need extra support, consider buying a more affordable mattress and pairing it with a nice topper.
Perennials will vary by climate and region, so start with a simple Google search.
Hit up an Estate Sale
An estate sale is basically a more extravagant garage sale.
Many people hold estate sales when theyre downsizing, moving, divorcing or managing someones belongings after a death.
Try searching for estate sales in your area throughEstateSales.net.
Make Your Own Household Cleaners
Have you noticed how expensive Lysol wipes are lately?
Instead of splurging, consider a few ofthese household cleaning hacks.
Turn Trash to Cash
Certain cities across the country offerrecycling and composting incentives.
Phil even chats with your insurance company to handle any payment issues.
Plus, as a new customer, youll get up to $30 off your first prescription.
This stash of money sits untouched unless theres an emergency.
Read abouthow to start your emergency fund.
Find Free Therapy
If your insurance doesnt cover mental health care services, there areaffordable even free optionsavailable.
We put togethera list of questions to ask your new employerto help guide you through the conversation.
Whatever you dont spend in a year can be rolled over to the next.
you’ve got the option to even invest the money, which is kind of cool.
Readour guide on HSAsto figure out if it could be the right fit for you.
Visit Your Doctor Online
Did you know you might visit a certified medical professional online?
It could be that you knock out all your appointments in one morning without leaving homeandat an affordable price.
So if you have some money leftover, why not use it for these26 surprising items and procedures?
Prevent High Health Care Costs
One way to potentially avoid hefty medical bills is to take preventative measures.
Here are a few resources thatll help get you on track:
166.
Although slightly dated, The New York Times publisheda hospital cost comparison interactive mapback in 2013.
It demonstrates just how drastically the cost of procedures can vary from hospital to hospital.
Log Those Healthy 8 Hours
Yeah, yeah.
Youve heard this your whole life.
Get those eight hours in.
Not getting enough of it can increase your risk for (costly) health issues and diseases.
Stop Overspending on OTC Meds
Im always amazed at how expensive over-the-counter medicines are.
Wecompared several drugstoresand found that Amazons new(ish) Basic Care offers the lowest prices.
Check out Your Pharmacys Savings Program
Earlier this year, we wrote about thePublix Free Medication program.
you’ve got the option to snag up to 90 days of qualifying maintenance medications for free.
It also has a list of prescriptions it’s possible for you to get for $7.50.
Ask your pharmacy if it has any savings programs like this.
Remember: Generic Doesnt Mean Ineffective
Many times, generic prescriptions cost significantly less than name-brand.
Is there a difference, though?
Heres all the science behindname brand versus generic prescriptions.
Fetch a Free Flu Shot
Im not going to lie: I havent gotten a flu shot in alongtime.
However, not getting a flu shot can cost you.
Plus, you could findaffordable if not free flu shotsaround town.
If they wont budge, try setting up a payment plan.
Try Health Care Across the Border
Have you heard of medical and dental tourism?
Like anything,medical tourism has its pros and cons.
Several personal needs including braces, prescriptions and glasses.
If you need help navigating the U.S. health care marketplace, for example, head toHealthcare.gov.
Itll will have all the information you need.
So when youre ready to quit smoking, we put togethera list of free resourcesfor you.
Share Your Health Care Costs With Others
Ever heard of health care sharing?
Like anything, its notthatstraightforward.
Be sure to do your own research before taking a leap of faith…
179.
The investment account is designed for you to deposit small monthly payments to invest in public markets.
Max out Parental Tax Breaks
Having kids changes a lot… including your taxes.
A number of tax credits and deductions exist for parents, which could result in thousands in savings.
Weve got a list ofnine popular tax breaksto get you started.
Get Help From the Village
When youre expecting, everyone wants to buy you everything.
Tap Into Baby Freebies…
If youre a new or expecting parent, be sure tosnag all these baby freebies.
…and Dont Forget About Free Baby Diapers
Bottoms up!
Go Diaper Free
If youre feeling REALLY brave, you could go diaper free by practicing elimination communication.
Basically, you teach your child to use the bathroom on cue from birth.
Milk Those Formula Savings
Many folks assume diapers are one of the most expensive baby needs.
But you cant forget about the formula.
Learn how tosnag some savings, without switching to the generic versions.
And check out thischance to win free formula for a yearfrom Enfamil.
Thats what Penny Hoarder contributor Madeleine Deliee did.
Shop for Baby Gear Online
Sure, walking into a baby boutique is exciting.
And the smell it smells like a precious newborn baby.
But its easy to overspend on name-brand items in these stores.
Instead, try shopping online for your baby gear.
Penny Hoarder contributor Rachel Murphy saved hundreds by scouring Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace.
Shespent $310 on essentials, retailed at $1,122.
Allowing parents to bring their babies to work could save them thousands of dollars.
Keep an eye open to see if this could become a national trend.
Kids grow like little weeds.
You spend hundreds on clothes.
Theyre all too small.
Instead of buying the latest fashions, embrace hand-me-downs, shopped thrift stores and used social media.
Cut Back on After-School Activities
Parents are paying thousands on extracurriculars.
Plus, kids get tired.
Its never too early to start.
Heck, one mom writes abouttaking her toddler bargain hunting.
Not sure where to start?
We put togethera guide to help you teach your kids about money.
Hold Steadfast With Holiday Gift Limits
Penny Hoarder Nicole Dow sets afour-gift ruleto save on her holiday shopping.
The gig included a free trip to Iceland and $2,500 per person.
Learn to Say No to Your Kids More
Seriously.
Thisone wordcould save you a ton of money and help you raise a more money-conscious child.
Build a Capsule Wardrobe
Ever heard of acapsule wardrobe?
Instead, consider renting through a website likeRent the Runway.
you’re free to find designer dresses, tops and jumpsuits severely discounted.
you’re able to even snag your wedding dress from the site.
Embrace Your Inner Macklemore
All right.
Were all sick of that song at this point, but well never get sick of thrifting.
Venture into your local thrift store.
You might be surprised with what you find.Designer jeans for $10?
Before purchasing an item, check its care label.
If it suggests dry cleaning, reconsider absorbing that extra cost and responsibility.
It helps put the purchase in perspective.
Its simple.Estimate just how many times you think youll wear the item in hand.
Consider putting together your own neutral uniform.
Slow Down Your Fashion
Slow fashionis a movement that focuses on clothing sustainability.
Avoid that with a little planning.
Perfect Your Haggling Skills With Imperfections
Many stores will offer an imperfect discount.
Commit thesesimple DIY clothing repairsto memory.
(Tell me everyone does this and not just me?)
Walk Straight to the Back of the Store
Hello, clearance clothes!
Thrift Online
If walking into a thrift store overwhelms you, consider thrift shopping online.
There, shop for anything and everything.
Theres even a new with tags category, in case youre easing in.
Avoid Store Credit Cards
Shoppers should be wary of those store-branded credit cards, warnsConsumer Reports.
Butinterest rates associated with these cards tend to be higherthan your traditional credit cards.
Dont Forget Donation Tax Deductions
One of themost overlooked tax deductionsis charitable donations.
Any cash contributions or goods (clothing, too!)
can be deducted from your taxable income.
Pro tip: No fabric softener!
Buy One Staple Swimsuit Bottom
Swimsuits are uber expensive.
I have black bikini bottoms that Ill pair with different tops.
No ones going to notice, and it works year to year.
Shop Clearance Online
If messy clearance sections overwhelm you, hit up the stores online clearance section.
you’ve got the option to organize it by category, and youll likely find more options.
Youll also have a good opportunity to practice deal-stacking by making your purchase through a portal likeEbates.
Write it down; stick to it.
It just means you better do laundry.
Stay on top of it.
ConsiderGlassesUSA, which offers clearance frames starting at $19.
One of the most popular isDollar Shave Club.
Theres no additional fee, and you’re free to pause or cancel whenever youre fully stocked.
Power up Without a Pricy Gym Membership
Heres a list ofnine workouts that are inexpensive and sometimes even fun.
Here are some examples:
Do some shopping around.
Either way, itll probably be cheaper than the metal youll get from the orthodontist.
Schedule a DIY Spa Day
We put together a list of25 DIY spa day treatmentsyou can do at home.
…or Skip Makeup Altogether
Who says you should probably wear makeup, anyway?
Save on Sunscreen
Sunscreen is integral to any skin care regimen.
Unfortunately, its pretty pricy.
A few tips to help you save:
And dont forget to your annual dermatologist appointment!
Skirt the Pink Tax
The term pink tax is about personal hygiene and toiletry products targeted toward women.
The next time youre stocking up, ignore the packaging; shop by price instead.
Save money by using areusable menstrual product instead, like a menstrual cup.
you could buy one for as little as $25.
Foster Mindfulness at Work
Stress can take a major toll on your mental, emotional and physical health.
Start with thisfive-minute guide to becoming more mindful.
Hop on the Gray Train
Gray hair is kind of trendy right now.
The youngins are paying good money to dye their hair gray.
Instead of spending money on expensive salon treatments to hide them, embrace your grays.
Take an Online Yoga Class
Rather than splurging on a pricy studio, finda free online yoga class.
Consider Pet Insurance
Just like human health insurance, theres pet insurance.
Many plans have a deductible, or minimum amount you must pay out of pocket before the coverage counts.
The amount will depend on the policy but could range anywhere from $0 to $2,500.
Thats what Penny Hoarder Kelly Smith did when her pup began vomiting blood.
(He ended up being OK!)
Sheknewthe bill would be expensive.
She didnt have pet insurance.
And she didnt want to charge it to her credit card.
That gives you a year to whittle down your debt.
Look Into Nonprofits for Spaying and Neutering
These procedures are an integral part of pet parenthood.
If youre struggling to afford the expense, check nonprofits in your area.
Justtype in your zip codeto find a location near you.
Pet owners who receive food stamps, HUD assistance or Social Security benefits are eligible for free pet food.
Pet grooming is often pricy.
Try some of our DIY tips tokeep your pups coat pawfect.
Potty Train Your Cat
Cat owners know: Litter is expensive.
So why not just go without?
Take notes from Scott Turner and his wife, Katie, whotoilet-trained their kitties.
Itll be delivered right to your door.
Get Creative With Pet Toys
Cat and dog toys are expensive.
And what do your fur children do?
Considerall the coststhatll go into owning and caring for a little creature.
If you decide to foster cats or dogs, youll house these needy pets temporarily.
Plus, its a great deed.
Amusement Advantage says it pays via PayPal within 21 to 28 days.
He was mystery shopping.
Theaters and movie studios want to collect data about their audiences you through in-theater checks.
To get started, youll need to fill out an utility with the mystery shopping companyMarket Force Information.
Read Free Ebooks From Your Public Library
Have a library card?
Now, youll need to download an app.
Heres a simple way to save some money: Sign up forMoviePass.
Find Free Weekend Activities
Farmers market?
Nab some inspiration from thesefree things to do in Orlando.
Chances are, you might search your local newspaper, magazine or website for plenty of ideas.
Dont Forget About Groupon
I recently purchased two clay wheel-throwing classes on Groupon and saved 48%.
This was a fun and unique weekend activity for my boyfriend and me.
Search fun Groupon offers in your area.
Avoid Exorbitant Concert Ticket Upcharges
Sounds impossible, right?
Weve gotcha covered with more helpful tips to help yousave money on concert tickets.
Go on a Penny Date
Got a penny?
Thats all youll need for this frugal, downtown date night idea.
Here are the rules:
Wherever you end up is where the date will take place.
Maybe its a lake or park.
Or maybe its a gas station youll have to get creative for that one.
Expand Your Horizons With Live Theater
Theater tickets can quickly become pricy even off-Broadway or in your home town.
A few ways to keep the price down?
Master the Art of DIY Party Decor
Theres nothing quite as fun as a good themed party.
Heres one example to kick off each year:a budget-friendly, DIY News Years Eve party.
Stop Overpaying for Music…
Which music streaming service is right for your needs?
Itll depend on your situation.
… and Movies and TV
Whats the best video-streaming service?
Again, it depends on you.
Wecompared Hulu, Netflix and Prime Videoto help you choose the best one for your needs.
Pack up for a Beach Day…
If its a state park, you might have to pay a small admission fee.
Sometimes youll get stuck paying for parking.
But the beach offers a full day of entertainment and relaxation at a relatively low cost.
…or Hit The Trails
Not near a beach?
No, were not telling you off.
Plan a day of hiking.
you’re free to find a ton of free tails.
Bonus: If you live near a National Park, take advantage ofthe free admission days.
Chances are, its not Sept. 23 when youre reading this.
So just remember: The library is a treasure trove of freebies, includingfree museum passes.
Save on College Tuition With Scholarships
Not sure where to start?
Bookmark our list of100 college scholarships.
Peruse ourguide to attending college in Canada.
It covers everything from added expenses to top schools to financial aid opportunities.
Secure a Job Before You Go to College
Did you know some companies will pay for your education?
Recently, Discover announced its offering employeesa free college education.
Walmart announced a similar plan college for $1 a day.
Chipotle, McDonalds and Starbucks also offer college tuition perks to employees.
Apply for Federal Grants for College
FAFSA stands for Free tool for Federal Student Aid.
If you need help, refer to our step-by-step guide onhow to fill out the FAFSA.
Avoid College program Fees
Applying to college is expensive.
Research Tuition-Free Colleges
Yes.Free college is becoming a thing.
Consider Community College
Attending community college is a great way to save money on tuition.
Thats why we wrote about thetop 10 states where community college is the best deal.
Heres some more information onhow to get an apprenticeship.
We collected five experttips for negotiating college tuition.
Take the SAT More Than Once
We get it: The SAT is actually the worst thing ever invented.
Two out of three students who retake the SAT will improve their score, accordingto the College Board.
Plus, it helps if you tap into free online learning resources through a platform like the Khan Academy.
In addition to a hefty tuition waiver, I also received a monthly paycheck, which covered rent.
But the truth is attending an out-of-state school could more than double your tab.
Remember: College is what you make it.
Although you might initially think of this as an in-store activity, its super easy to do online.
Heres an option we like: Its theChase Freedom Unlimited card.
For example, searchRaise.
Once you buy the gift card, use it to make your purchase.
Penny Hoarder contributor Steve Gillman put together a list ofonline discounted gift card marketplaces.
For example, if you refer a friend to Fabletics, youll secure a $10 store credit.
Scout out Freebies
Here are31 of the best internet freebiesweve found.
Will you be able to return your purchase?
Remember: Buy Seasonally
Did you know theres an optimal money-saving time to buy just about anything?
For instance, in January, youll want to get a TV.
Oddly enough, thats the best time to buy a mattress.
Bookmark our month-by-month guide tothe best time to buying almost anything, and shop strategically to save money.
Just sign in and shop through its rewards portal.
Dont Count AARP out Because Youre Too Young
Like AAA, AARP offers some great discounts.
Think youre too young?
Yeah, that sucks.
Youll want to use a web client extension to track prices.
One we love isWikibuy.
With all that info,Wikibuywill let you know if this is the best time to buy.
Avoid Impulse Shopping With This Simple Trick
You know that Add to cart button thatssotempting?
Seek a Lifetime of Warranties
You might be surprised by how many brands offer lifetime warranties.
We rounded up43 companies thatll fix or replace anythingyou buy from them.
Earn Rewards Just For Kicks
Ever heard ofShopkick?
Penny Hoarder Jen Smith had a lot of luck using this strategy.
She and her husband were looking for a fifth-wheel camper to flip.
They looked past the bad photos and poor spelling on one listing and went to take a look.
The rig was great.
Always Compare Prices
Before checking out, always compare prices online.
For instance, even though Amazon might be your favorite retailer, it never hurts to search elsewhere.
Take shipping costs into consideration, too.
An app likeShopSavvymakes the job super simple.Or you’re able to always check Googles shopping tab.
For instance, never back up your credit card information to a site.
If your credit card isallthe way across the house, how motivated are you to get it?
Yeah, were all lazy, and adding little barriers like this can help curb those impulses.
Find Free Beer
you might get paid to mystery shop and drink at breweries in your area throughSecret Hopper.
(Clever, right?
Its like secret shopping.
One Penny Hoardergave the gig a try.
He paid $16 on his visit to a local brewery.
Secret Hopper paid him $20 via PayPal within a few days.
Hed give himself $20.
Earn Cash Back When Dining out
Yelp hasa cash-back programthat rewards you when you dine out.
Just sign up and register your most-used debit or credit card.
Note: You cannot earn cash back for online orders or deliveries.
However, pick-up and to-go orders are fair game.
Know Your National Holidays
Do you even realize how many holidays there are nowadays?
And many of them mean free food.
Here are a few of our favorites:
Keep tabs on more freebies over atour Facebook Deals page.
Buy the Larger Pizza (As If You Needed an Excuse)
Do the math.
How much are you paying per inch of pizza?
Become Your Own Barista
A lot of financial experts will chastise you for spending money on a Starbucks latte.
To be honest, thats not our huge concern, unless youre in debt because of Starbucks.
However, you might save a bit by learninghow to make your own Starbucks-style concoctions at home.
Shed have to cut legumes, wheat, grains, sugar, sugar substitutes, alcohol and so on.
She didnt drink, she wasnt eating out as much, and she cut out pricy prepared foods.
TheWells Fargo Propel American Express Card* does that.
This card was just revamped so it rewards more of the kinds of purchases consumers make today.
Youll earn 3X points on eating out and ordering in.
Plus youll get a 0% intro APR for 12 months, and theres no annual fee.
Check the Menu Before Venturing out
These days, everythings online, including most restaurant menus.
Before heading out, check the menu online.
Or even a simple Google search will likely aggregate lists of BYOB restaurants in your area.
Just call ahead to inquire about corkage fees.
Yelp and FourSquare typically list the best happy hours in certain areas.
Look for those guides!
Inquire About Service Member Discounts
Many restaurants offerservice member discounts even if theyre not advertised.
Learn How to Make Your Own Chick-fil-A
We get it.
Theres a certain appeal to being served even if it is through a window.
But if you want to save some money, take notes from Jason and M.K.
Williams, who founda copycat Chick-fil-A recipe online.
They can even make it on a Sunday just to be ironic.
Were also familiar with the hefty bills they hit us with each month.
Consider switching over to a discount carrier like Twigby, Mint Mobile or Cricket Wireless.
We compareddiscount cell phone carriersto help you venture outside the big four.
Consider a Prepaid Phone Plan
If you havent yet, consider a prepaid cell phone plan.
No need to sign an annual contract to score the plan, either.
Think Hard Before Buying Phone Insurance
Youre already dropping $1,000 on a new phone.
Then the salesperson says, Dont you want this gem insured?
You might feel pressure.
Just remember some phone insurance covers accidental damage, like a cracked screen.
Give Your Cell Phone Provider a Ring
Whens the last time you chatted with your cell phone provider?
Its time to give them a call.
Buy in Bulk
Nope.
Were not suggesting you buy six cell phone plans for yourself.
For context, thats about 10 hours of streaming video.
The deal is you pay $300 upfront for the entire year then youre good to go.
Thats less than a dollar a day.
We put together a list of four tips to help youfind reliable refurbished electronics.
Avoid a Long-Term Cell Service Contract
Before signing a long-term contact, read the fine print.
However, if you want wireless capabilities, youll add yet another monthly fee.
Dont get sucked into theoooooh shinymentality.
It never hurts to ask.
See if you might add your siblings or parents to your plan.
Just confirm they pay you back each month!
Track Flight Prices
Before taking off on your next adventure, be sure to track the price of flights.
Piece Flights Together
If youre willing to have a few airline changes and stopovers, letSkipLaggedplan your travel route.
Itll piece together the cheapest flights to help you save.
Theres also a chance you might find a nonstop gem.
For example, I saw a deal for Tampa to New York.
Call Shotgun on Your Next Trip Quick!
Consider a road trip.
Penny Hoarder Dana Sitar and her partner, Stefan Davis, took a 720-mile weekend trip for $300.
Yup that included gas, hotel, food and entertainment.
Bookmark Sitarsroadtrip travel tipsfor the next time youre ready to hit the open road.
The coast-to-coast trip cost him $186.
Of course, if you want to stop somewhere, youll have to buy another ticket.
But if youre in it for the train experience and sights, it could be a good deal.
Low documented his tripat his blog.
Research the Best Rewards Programs
Many times, you’re free to travel for free through rewards programs.
Here are a few options:
327.
Park, Sleep, Then Fly
Were all familiar with the priciness of airport parking.
However, there are a few ways to save.
Or it’s possible for you to park, sleep and fly.
Heres how it works: You park at an airport hotel for free the night before your flight.
You sleep at the hotel.
(This is especially beneficial if you have an early morning flight.)
ParkSleepFlyhelps you search for the best value at the airport of your choice.
Travel During Shoulder Season
Shoulder season refers to the time between a destinations high season and low season.
Its right between the rush of tourists and the time when everything shuts down.
So, for example, shoulder season in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is during the fall.
Dont worry: No cold shoulder tops are required.
Play House Sitter to Travel on the Cheap
Want a free place to stay and to get paid?
Consider becoming a house sitter.
you might find gigs across the world throughthese house-sitting marketplaces.
Baggage fees, in particular, quickly add up.
Thats why we comparedthe cost of baggage on major airlines.
Spoiler alert: Southwest is the only airline that lets you check two bags for free!
Stay on a Strangers Couch to Travel for Free
If youre willing to stay with a stranger, tryCouchsurfing.
The cultural exchange program provides you with free housing and perhaps a new friend.
Heads up: Only stay with hosts who have good reviews, and let someone know where youre staying.
Everyone Ive chatted with has had a great surfing experience, but you just never know these days.
Penny Hoarder Lisa Rowan shared some of her favoritebudget camping trip tips.
But you also know how expensive your food tab can become.
Eat the complimentary breakfast at the hotel, then eat a late lunch/early dinner out.
UseGoogle Flightsto search for tickets.
Look up your credit card and its travel deals.
Perform a Quick Cost Analysis Before Traveling
Ask these questions:
339.
Ask: Do I Need Travel Insurance?
Travel insurance is just another added expense on a trip.
But in some instances, it could be worth it.
Save Money on Your Passport
Passports arent cheap.
First-time applicants in the U.S. will pay a $110 tool fee, plus a $35 acceptance fee.
When searching for an option, dont write off private rooms.
Many times, private rooms are a lot more affordable and still offer a private bathroom.
When staying in Venice last year, my boyfriend and I booked what was technically a private room.
The space was in a bed and breakfast, and it was a small room with a private bathroom.
Because we were mostly out and about, we didnt mind that it lacked a kitchen.
Plus, we received a complimentary breakfast.
Youll spend half each each day helping out on the farm in exchange for free room and board.
Instead of getting drawn into the touristy spots, ask locals about the best budget-friendly haunts.
But a banking app calledChimewants to protect you from both of those problems with its SpotMe feature1.
Signing uptakes just a few minutes.
Break up With Your Bae Err, Bank
Find a bank account thats going to treat you right.
Find one that isnt going to surprise you with hidden fees.
We gradeda variety of checking accountsbased on fees, rewards and more.See if one of those piques your interest.
Learn How Much Youre Paying in Bank Fees
Tacked-on fees can be difficult to track down.
However, we found a bot that can help.
My credit card payment was due yesterday.
Now, youll never forget!
you’re free to build your credit and earn some solid rewards.
The only problem with the rewards?
Many cards come with an annual fee.
Pocket a Pretty Bank Bonus
you could also earnbank bonuseswhen you open a new checking or savings account.
Find a Bank Thatll Waive Your ATM Fees
When you need an ATM, you need an ATM.
And those convenient little machines seem to know that because theyll tack on mighty withdrawal fees.
Heres what you might do: Sign up fora bank account that waives or reimburses ATM fees.
This is especially helpful if you love traveling even abroad.
Whenever you swipe your credit card, Debitize pulls the same amount of cash from your bank account.
It stores the cash for you until its time to pay your credit card bill.
Then it pays that bill for you a week before the due date.
Consider Joining a Credit Union
Credit unions can offer some great perks.
If youre not familiar, we comparedcredit unions versus banksfor some perspective.
Plus, you lose out on all the perks of compound interest.
*The information for the Wells Fargo Propel American Express Card has been collected independently by The Penny Hoarder.
The Penny Hoarder is a partner of Credible.
Chime is a financial technology company, not a bank.
Banking services provided by, and debit card issued by, The Bancorp Bank or Stride Bank, N.A.
Overdraft only applies to debit card purchases and cash withdrawals.
Limits start at $20 and may be increased up to $200 by Chime.
(Can you sense my millennial sarcasm there?)
You know which ones were talking about: rent, utilities, cell phone bill, insurance, groceries…
