It seems these days many people are looking for a side hustle to help pay the mortgage, but there are other ways to save money around your house without committing to a part-time job. Whether you're lounging around the house or out on the town, these simple money-saving tips add up throughout the year.
If the cashier asks you if you want your receipt, the answer is always YES! From everyday grocery shopping to dining out, your everyday expenses can earn you credit back and help reduce the price of everyday items. Try apps like Receipt Hog or Ibotta and with a few clicks of your phone camera, you're helping cover a portion of your mortgage or collecting extra spending cash. You can even "double dip" with multiple apps, like uploading receipts for gas plus saving with every purchase with other apps like GetUpside, which often saves $0.10 - $0.25 per gallon on gasoline at the pump.
Search for Discount Codes Before Purchasing
Before you hit the checkout button online, take a quick second to search if there are any discount codes for the items you're about to buy! It's a quick search and will often turn up promotional codes on sites like We Thrift or Retail Me Not. You'll be surprised how often there are free codes you can use to save an extra buck, percentage off, free shipping, and more.
Investing and Saving
Be intentional about saving and investing money with apps like the Strike app - you can request money from others (perhaps splitting up the dinner bill with friends) and then use that money to invest in bitcoin or simply save it. Try it - there's a free $5 waiting for you when you sign up with an offer code.
Although these types of businesses have received bad reviews in the past, they're becoming more and more popular as people are promoting brands they love. Whether it's your dogs toys and food, kitchen utensils, or everyday beauty essentials, simply telling people how you really feel and encouraging them to try these brands can turn into extra cash. Successful product ambassadors can create full-time income, but even sharing with your friends and family can provide a way to cover the bills.
Cook at Home
Instead of eating out, consider options to eat at home. It's typically healthier and cheaper, plus you're learning new skills and secrets of cooking. Multiple companies offer meals shipped to your door, or at least the perfect amount of ingredients to easily prep meals in 30 minutes or less. Here's a $35 credit to give it a try - I think you'll love it!
Are You Paying Too Much?
Some of the largest expenses for your home can sometimes be reduced! For instance, some counties offer discounts on property taxes for seniors (typically homeowners need to apply and meet the terms). In El Paso County, seniors can cut their annual property taxes in half with the senior tax exemption. Another option is checking into your home loan. If you're still paying mortgage insurance and you have enough equity in your home, you may be able to request to remove the mortgage insurance from your loan. These quick inquiries could mean hundreds to thousands of dollars in savings every year!
In summary, saving money doesn't have to be hard, but sometimes it has to be intentional! A few extra steps can provide some fun spending cash or help take a dent out of your monthly mortgage payment!
