By Jonathan Roisman, NextAdvisor.com
The holiday shopping season is rapidly approaching, and we've got a few suggestions to save you some money when paying with a credit card. There are two major ways you can save some cash while you shop for your friends and family this year.
First, you can earn money while you shop by using a cash-back credit card. Some cards will earn you 3% to 6% cash back on select holiday categories, allowing you to recoup some of what you pay for in gifts. Why not earn some cash back on purchases you already plan to make? Next, get a credit card that offers a 0% intro APR. With a no interest card, you can buy whatever you need for the holiday season without paying interest charges for as long as 18 months, just in case you can't pay your balance in full. And some cash-back credit cards offer the best of both worlds, up to 6% cash back combined with 15 months of no interest!
Best Credit Cards for Holiday Shopping
Since there are so many options when it comes to credit cards for holiday shopping, we've broken down the top cards that offer a long 0% intro APR cards with cash back benefits and those that simply offer the longest 0% intro APR.
Long 0% Intro APR plus Cash Back
The Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express offers a fantastic blend of rewards and an intro 0% APR. To start, you'll get a 0% APR for the first 15 months on purchases and balance transfers. Although there's a $75 annual fee, you'll receive one year of Amazon Prime and a $100 bonus after spending $1,000 in the first three months of card membership, which is a good benefit for people planning on doing a lot of holiday shopping. Not only that, but the card offers amazing 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 in purchases), unlimited 3% on gas station and department store purchases (great for holiday shopping), as well as 1% on all other purchases. If you're looking for a card that offers similar features without the annual fee, check out the Blue Cash Everyday Card from American Express. This card comes with the same 15-month 0% intro APR but a lower intro bonus and cash back rates.
If you're an online shopper, the Discover it Card is the best choice for this year's Cyber Monday sales. That's because from now through Dec. 31st, you'll get 5% cash back on any online shopping or department store purchases up to $1,500. Discover it's 5% cash back rotates each quarter, letting you take advantage of earning cash back on different kinds of purchases every three months. Other great benefits include 14 months of 0% intro APR, unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases and no annual fee.
In addition to a 0% intro APR for the first 15 months, the Chase Freedom card also earns an excellent 5% cash back on up to $1,500 worth of purchases on rotating categories and unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases. Through the end of this year, the categories are holiday-shopping themed. You'll get 5% cash back on purchases from Amazon.com, Zappos.com and select department stores (including Macy's, Kohl's, JCPenney, Nordstrom, Sears and many, many more). Best yet, there's no annual fee with Chase Freedom and you get a $100 cash back bonus when you spend $500 within the first three months of opening the account. And unlike the other cards on this list, you don't need excellent credit to be approved for Chase Freedom. Those with merely "good" credit scores (typically 660 or higher) have a chance to be approved.
The Citi Double Cash Card is another top choice for paying no interest on your holiday purchases while earning cash back. With this card, you'll get a 0% APR for the first 15 months so you don't have to worry about racking up interest on your gifts this year as long as you make the minimum payment each month. As one of the newest credit cards on the market, Citi Double Cash offers a unique way to earn cash back. You'll get 1% cash back on all purchases you make and another 1% for each dollar you payback on your bill. In essence, you can up to 2% cash back on an unlimited amount of purchases when you pay off your statement. Although there's no signup bonus, this card does not have an annual fee.
If you want a credit card that earns generous cash back regardless of the time of year or shopping category, the Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards is good choice. You'll earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases and pay a 0% APR until June 2015. The card also comes with a $100 cash back bonus when you spend $500 in first three months of opening the account and has no annual fee. Like Chase Freedom, you only need good, not great, credit to be approved.
Longest 0% Intro APR
With a whopping 18 month 0% intro APR, the Citi Simplicity card is a great choice if you need to pay your balance off over time without the threat of interest charges. In addition to this generous purchase intro APR, this card also has an 18-month 0% intro APR for balance transfers. Citi Simplicity also has a unique no fee policy -- no late fees, penalty rates or annual fees -- ever!
The Citi Diamond Preferred Card also comes with a lengthy 18-month 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers. In addition to paying no interest on your purchases, the Citi Diamond Preferred Card allows you to earn Citi Easy Deals Points that can be redeemed for online deals on name-brand merchandise and gift cards. To top it off, there's no annual fee.
This blog post originally appeared on NextAdvisor.com
29 Ways You Waste Cash
29. Impulse Buys(01 of29)
Who doesn't know that impulse purchases are a bad idea? I've even realized it was a bad idea as I was doing it. So here are three quick tips: 1. Make a shopping list. Take it with you and stick to it. 2. Eat beforehand. An empty stomach can doom the most prepared shopper, especially at the supermarket. 3. Shop alone. Bringing children (or a significant other who acts like a child) is a sure way to fill your cart with impulse buys. (credit:<a href="http://www.flickr.com/" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name="Flickr:" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="94" data-vars-position-in-unit="103">Flickr:</a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/lrargerich/" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name=" lrargerich" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/people/lrargerich/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="95" data-vars-position-in-unit="104"> lrargerich</a>)
28. Buying Online Without Comparison Shopping(02 of29)
When you shop online, there are hundreds of sites competing for your business. Buy those shoes at the first site you go to and you may be wasting money. Compare the purchase and shipping price at three or more sites before you buy anything. (credit:<a href="http://www.flickr.com/" target="_blank" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name="Flickr:" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="92" data-vars-position-in-unit="101">Flickr:</a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/theogeo/" target="_blank" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name=" theogeo" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/people/theogeo/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="93" data-vars-position-in-unit="102"> theogeo</a>)
27. Paying For Protection You Don't Need(03 of29)
While you need to protect some things in your life - like your car or your house - you don't need to insure everything. Check out 8 Types of Protection Not Worth Paying For and see what you can live without. (credit:<a href="http://www.flickr.com/" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name="Flickr:" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="90" data-vars-position-in-unit="99">Flickr:</a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/jbcurio/" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name=" jbcurio" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/people/jbcurio/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="91" data-vars-position-in-unit="100"> jbcurio</a>)
26. Being Disorganized(04 of29)
Being disorganized about your finances leads to costly late payment fees and overdraft charges. You can easily rack up hundreds in fees. For example, even a single $25 late fee per month will cost $300 extra a year. Set up bill reminders and keep your checkbook balanced. (credit:<a href="http://www.flickr.com/" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name="Flickr:" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="87" data-vars-position-in-unit="96">Flickr:</a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/alismith44/" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name=" aliwest44" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/people/alismith44/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="88" data-vars-position-in-unit="97"> aliwest44</a>)
25. Expensive Cell Phone Plans(05 of29)
Consumer Reports says the average person spends $600 a year on wireless service. But many people pay for services they never use. For example, I had an $85 unlimited plan and rarely used more than 1,000 minutes a month. So I switched to a cheaper 1,000-minute plan and saved $20 a month. (credit:<a href="http://www.flickr.com/" target="_blank" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name="Flickr:" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="85" data-vars-position-in-unit="94">Flickr:</a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/ivyfield/" target="_blank" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name=" Yutaka Tsutano" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/people/ivyfield/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="86" data-vars-position-in-unit="95"> Yutaka Tsutano</a>)
24. Not Using Coupons(06 of29)
Now that coupons are available online, you're wasting money if you're not using them. Do a quick coupon search before you buy anything, including clothes, groceries, and electronics. You can find coupons on our deals page or on sites like: RetailMeNot, Redplum, and SmartSource.com. (credit:<a href="http://www.flickr.com/" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name="Flickr:" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="82" data-vars-position-in-unit="91">Flickr:</a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/pleeker/" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name=" Matt McGee" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/people/pleeker/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="83" data-vars-position-in-unit="92"> Matt McGee</a>)
23. Oil Changes(07 of29)
Cars don't need oil changes as frequently as they used to. If you're getting your oil changed every 3,000 miles, you're probably doing it too often (and wasting money). Follow the recommended mileage in your owner's manual. (credit:<a href="http://www.flickr.com/" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name="Flickr:" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="76" data-vars-position-in-unit="85">Flickr:</a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/rstinnett/" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name=" robertstinnett" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/people/rstinnett/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="77" data-vars-position-in-unit="86"> robertstinnett</a>)
22. Premium Fuel(08 of29)
Unless your car requires premium fuel, you don't need it. Buying premium isn't going to extend the life of your car or give you a significant MPG boost. In fact, Edmunds studied cars built from 2008 to 2012 and found that many models didn't even need premium fuel - even though the manufacturer recommended it. Here's what they had to say about it:
In today's automobiles, advances in engine technology mean that even if the owner's manual recommends premium gasoline, the car will typically run on regular without knocking. Its performance will suffer only slightly: Perhaps it might be a half-second slower from zero to 60 mph. The key for drivers is to know whether premium gasoline is merely recommended or if it's required.Edmunds has a list of cars that need premium fuel (and a list of those that don't) in To Save Money on Gas, Stop Buying Premium. (credit:<a href="http://www.flickr.com/" target="_blank" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name="Flickr:" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="74" data-vars-position-in-unit="83">Flickr:</a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/33954075@N07/" target="_blank" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name=" pscf11" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/people/33954075@N07/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="75" data-vars-position-in-unit="84"> pscf11</a>)
21. Not Taking Advantage Of A 401(K) Company Match(09 of29)
Many companies will match an employee's 401(k) contribution up to a certain percent. If you're not contributing enough to meet the maximum match, you're losing out on free money. Ask your HR department for information on your company match. (credit:<a href="http://www.flickr.com/" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name="Flickr:" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="71" data-vars-position-in-unit="80">Flickr:</a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/urban_data/" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name=" urban_data" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/people/urban_data/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="72" data-vars-position-in-unit="81"> urban_data</a>)
20. Bill Pay Convenience Fees(10 of29)
Some online or over-the-phone bill payment services come with fees. For example, my electric company charges $2.95 to pay online through their website. Instead, I use free bill pay through my bank. I still get to pay online, but I skip the fee and save $35.40 a year. (credit:<a href="http://www.flickr.com/" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name="Flickr:" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="69" data-vars-position-in-unit="78">Flickr:</a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/kalleboo/" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name=" kalleboo" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/people/kalleboo/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="70" data-vars-position-in-unit="79"> kalleboo</a>)
19. Hotel Fees(11 of29)
In many hotels, you'll pay automatic fees on top of your room price. Just paying those fees without finding an alternative (or fighting them) is a waste of money. Check out 7 Tips to Beat Hotel Fees. (credit:<a href="http://www.flickr.com/" target="_blank" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name="Flickr:" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="67" data-vars-position-in-unit="76">Flickr:</a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/12394349@N06/" target="_blank" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name=" Bryn Pinzgauer" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/people/12394349@N06/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="68" data-vars-position-in-unit="77"> Bryn Pinzgauer</a>)
18. Paying For Services You Don't Use(12 of29)
Automatic withdrawals make us lazy with our money. If you're paying for something each month - like a gym membership, magazine subscription, or streaming service - make sure you use it, or those charges will add up to wasted cash. For example, here are mine:
1. Gym membership - $29.99 per month
2. Netflix subscription - $9.99 per month
3. Popular Mechanics subscription - $1 per month
That's more than $40 a month. I make sure I get my money's worth out of them. (credit:<a href="http://www.flickr.com/" target="_blank" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name="Flickr:" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="64" data-vars-position-in-unit="73">Flickr:</a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/asiaticleague/" target="_blank" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name=" Asiatic League" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/people/asiaticleague/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="65" data-vars-position-in-unit="74"> Asiatic League</a>)
1. Gym membership - $29.99 per month
2. Netflix subscription - $9.99 per month
3. Popular Mechanics subscription - $1 per month
That's more than $40 a month. I make sure I get my money's worth out of them. (credit:<a href="http://www.flickr.com/" target="_blank" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name="Flickr:" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="64" data-vars-position-in-unit="73">Flickr:</a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/asiaticleague/" target="_blank" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name=" Asiatic League" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/people/asiaticleague/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="65" data-vars-position-in-unit="74"> Asiatic League</a>)
17. Ignoring Your Insurance(13 of29)
Becoming complacent about your insurance can cost you money. Stacy recommends shopping around for new insurance once a year - because when premiums drop or new, cheaper policies are available, no one's going to tell you if you don't ask. Check out our insurance comparison tool to shop for a better rate. (credit:<a href="http://www.flickr.com/" target="_blank" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name="Flickr:" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="62" data-vars-position-in-unit="71">Flickr:</a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/comedynose/" target="_blank" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name=" comedy_nose" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/people/comedynose/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="63" data-vars-position-in-unit="72"> comedy_nose</a>)
16. Wasting Utilities(14 of29)
Growing up, I got several lectures on leaving the lights on or keeping the front door open and "air conditioning the entire neighborhood." I didn't care too much then because I didn't pay the bill, but now I'm strict with my electricity usage. The result: My summer utility bills rarely top $100. If you've got lights on in a room you're not sitting in, you're wasting money. (credit:<a href="http://www.flickr.com/" target="_blank" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name="Flickr:" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="60" data-vars-position-in-unit="69">Flickr:</a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/emdot/" target="_blank" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name=" emdot" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/people/emdot/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="61" data-vars-position-in-unit="70"> emdot</a>)
15. Dining Out(15 of29)
I like to have a nice meal out every once in a while, but I've wasted a ton of money eating fast food I didn't really want because I didn't plan ahead. If I hit the drive-thru twice a week, I spend $12 on average. That is $48 a month - or enough for a really nice meal I actually wanted.
In 30 Tips to Save Money on Food, I've got a few ideas that will keep you out of the drive-thru lane - like keeping snacks on hand, freezing your leftovers to eat later, and planning your trips to the grocery store so that you always have something at home to eat. Check it out. (credit:<a href="http://www.flickr.com/" target="_blank" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name="Flickr:" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="58" data-vars-position-in-unit="67">Flickr:</a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/tracyhunter/" target="_blank" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name=" Tracy Hunter" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/people/tracyhunter/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="59" data-vars-position-in-unit="68"> Tracy Hunter</a>)
In 30 Tips to Save Money on Food, I've got a few ideas that will keep you out of the drive-thru lane - like keeping snacks on hand, freezing your leftovers to eat later, and planning your trips to the grocery store so that you always have something at home to eat. Check it out. (credit:<a href="http://www.flickr.com/" target="_blank" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name="Flickr:" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="58" data-vars-position-in-unit="67">Flickr:</a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/tracyhunter/" target="_blank" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name=" Tracy Hunter" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/people/tracyhunter/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="59" data-vars-position-in-unit="68"> Tracy Hunter</a>)
14. Morning Lattes(16 of29)
In my area, a Grande Caramel Macchiato costs $4.55. Buy one every weekday and you'll spend $22.75 a week, $91 a month, and $1,092 a year. By comparison, a 16 ounce bag of coffee costs me $5.99 and I can make about 82 cups per bag. That is 7 cents per cup, a savings of $4.48 a day. Make your coffee at home and skip the fancy coffee-house drinks. (credit:<a href="http://www.flickr.com/" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name="Flickr:" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="55" data-vars-position-in-unit="64">Flickr:</a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/kansirnet/" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name=" Kansir" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/people/kansirnet/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="56" data-vars-position-in-unit="65"> Kansir</a>)
13. Buying Software(17 of29)
Many popular software programs have free alternatives that are just as good as the paid versions. For example, the free OpenOffice suite includes word processing software. Pixlr offers free online photo editing with both vintage effects and a basic editor. For more advanced editing, use free software like Gimp. (credit:<a href="http://www.flickr.com/" target="_blank" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name="Flickr:" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="53" data-vars-position-in-unit="62">Flickr:</a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/striatic/" target="_blank" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name=" striatic" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/people/striatic/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="54" data-vars-position-in-unit="63"> striatic</a>)
12. Long-Distance Calls(18 of29)
Most wireless plans include free long distance. If you call during off-peak hours, you won't use your minutes, either. You can also make long-distance calls over your Internet connection with Skype and Google Voice - both services offer free state-to-state calls. International calls cost 2 to 15 cents per minute through Google Voice. Check out their rate plans here. Skype ranges from 2 to 23 cents per minute. Check out Skype's rate plans here. (credit:<a href="http://www.flickr.com/" target="_blank" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name="Flickr:" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="48" data-vars-position-in-unit="57">Flickr:</a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/kiwanja/" target="_blank" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name=" kiwanja" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/people/kiwanja/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="49" data-vars-position-in-unit="58"> kiwanja</a>)
11. Baggage On Airlines(19 of29)
You'll pay up to $35 to check your luggage when you fly. Some airlines - like JetBlue and Southwest - don't charge extra for baggage, but most do. Check Airfarewatchdog's Airline Baggage Fees Chart before you book. If you're getting charged, only bring a carry-on (they're free) or find a better airline. (credit:<a href="http://www.flickr.com/" target="_blank" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name="Flickr:" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="42" data-vars-position-in-unit="51">Flickr:</a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/betsyweber/" target="_blank" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name=" betsyweber" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/people/betsyweber/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="43" data-vars-position-in-unit="52"> betsyweber</a>)
10. Full-Priced College Degrees(20 of29)
Between 2009 and 2010, full-time students spent an average of $17,464 on tuition, room, and board, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. But you can get a college degree cheaper (or even free) with scholarships. There are thousands out there. Check out 5 Ways to Score Scholarship Money. (credit:<a href="http://www.flickr.com/" target="_blank" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name="Flickr:" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="39" data-vars-position-in-unit="48">Flickr:</a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/billselak/" target="_blank" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name=" billaday" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/people/billselak/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="40" data-vars-position-in-unit="49"> billaday</a>)
9. Credit Reports(21 of29)
By law, the three major credit bureaus have to give you a free copy of your credit report once per year. Don't buy one until you've used up your freebies at AnnualCreditReport.com.
Once you order your free credit reports, dispute any errors you find with the credit bureaus. Errors lower your credit score, and a lower credit score means higher interest rates and wasted money. Check out 18 Tips to Give Your Credit Score a Boost for more ways to improve your score (and your interest rate). (credit:https://www.annualcreditreport.com/cra/index.jsp)
Once you order your free credit reports, dispute any errors you find with the credit bureaus. Errors lower your credit score, and a lower credit score means higher interest rates and wasted money. Check out 18 Tips to Give Your Credit Score a Boost for more ways to improve your score (and your interest rate). (credit:https://www.annualcreditreport.com/cra/index.jsp)
8. Buying Books(22 of29)
I'm an avid reader, but I haven't paid the suggested price in years. There are plenty of free or cheaper options for getting new books:
1. Get them from the library for free.
2. Use a book-swapping service to trade books you no longer want for ones you do. Check out the 4 Best Sites for Trading in Your Old Books.
3. Scour garage sales for books. I've bought many hardcovers for $1 this way. Check out 10 Ways to Save Time and Money at Garage Sales for shopping tips. (credit:<a href="http://www.flickr.com/" target="_blank" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name="Flickr:" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="32" data-vars-position-in-unit="41">Flickr:</a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/r0sss/" target="_blank" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name=" r0sss" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/people/r0sss/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="33" data-vars-position-in-unit="42"> r0sss</a>)
1. Get them from the library for free.
2. Use a book-swapping service to trade books you no longer want for ones you do. Check out the 4 Best Sites for Trading in Your Old Books.
3. Scour garage sales for books. I've bought many hardcovers for $1 this way. Check out 10 Ways to Save Time and Money at Garage Sales for shopping tips. (credit:<a href="http://www.flickr.com/" target="_blank" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name="Flickr:" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="32" data-vars-position-in-unit="41">Flickr:</a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/r0sss/" target="_blank" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name=" r0sss" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/people/r0sss/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="33" data-vars-position-in-unit="42"> r0sss</a>)
7. Brand Names(23 of29)
Some brand names are worth paying a little more for, but in many cases, the cheaper generics are the same quality as the brand names. For example, basic food stocks like rice, sugar, flour, and butter taste the same no matter what the label says. And generic over-the-counter meds? They work just as well as the name brands. Check out 7 Things You Should Always Buy Generic before you buy anything else with a brand name. (credit:<a href="http://www.flickr.com/" target="_blank" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name="Flickr:" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="28" data-vars-position-in-unit="37">Flickr:</a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/fauxto_dkp/" target="_blank" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name=" fauxto_digit" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/people/fauxto_dkp/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="29" data-vars-position-in-unit="38"> fauxto_digit</a>)
6. 411 Calls(24 of29)
Use the search feature on your smartphone - connect to a WiFi network and you won't use your data - or dial free 411 (1-800-Free411.) The results are sponsored by companies, and you'll have to listen to a 10-second ad, but it's free. (credit:<a href="http://www.flickr.com/" target="_blank" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name="Flickr:" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="25" data-vars-position-in-unit="34">Flickr:</a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/featheredtar/" target="_blank" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name=" FeatheredTar" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/people/featheredtar/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="26" data-vars-position-in-unit="35"> FeatheredTar</a>)
5. ATM Fees(25 of29)
My bank charged a $2.50 "convenience fee" for using an ATM that's not in its network. Convenient for who? I didn't live by a branch, so I was paying around $130 a year to use my own money. I changed banks, and now I use an app - ATM Hunter - to find a branch ATM. (credit:<a href="http://www.flickr.com/" target="_blank" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name="Flickr:" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="22" data-vars-position-in-unit="31">Flickr:</a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/redspotted/" target="_blank" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name=" redspotted" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/people/redspotted/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="23" data-vars-position-in-unit="32"> redspotted</a>)
4. Credit Card Interest(26 of29)
If you're not paying your credit card balance off in full each month, you're wasting money on interest. If you carry a $1,000 balance on a card that charges 18 percent, you'll waste $180 every year just on interest. If you can't pay off your credit card, check out our credit card comparison tool and look for a card with a lower interest rate. Also look for money-saving zero-percent transfer offers. (credit:<a href="http://www.flickr.com/" target="_blank" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name="Flickr:" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="19" data-vars-position-in-unit="28">Flickr:</a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/59937401@N07/" target="_blank" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name=" Images_of_Money" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/people/59937401@N07/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="20" data-vars-position-in-unit="29"> Images_of_Money</a>)
3. Bottled Water(27 of29)
A 16-ounce bottle of water costs about $1.50 at my local gas station. Buy a bottle of water five days a week, and you'll spend $30 a month and $360 a year. While it's not really free, water from your tap is much cheaper. If you hate the taste - and I do - you can buy a water-filtration system for as little as $20. Check out Consumer Reports' Water filters: green buying guide 2/12. (credit:<a href="http://www.flickr.com/" target="_blank" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name="Flickr:" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="15" data-vars-position-in-unit="24">Flickr:</a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/stevendepolo/" target="_blank" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name=" stevendepolo" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/people/stevendepolo/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="16" data-vars-position-in-unit="25"> stevendepolo</a>)
2. Checking Accounts(28 of29)
Big banks charge an average of $110 a year for checking accounts if customers don't meet their minimum requirements, U.S. News & World Report recently revealed. Your options?
Move your money to a community bank that will offer better terms, or head to a credit union. The National Credit Union Administration has a Credit Union Locator tool to help you find one in your area.
For those comfortable enough with the tech, consider going to an online-only bank. Without the overhead of brick-and-mortar branches, the terms are often much better. Consumerism Commentary offers two lists that are a great starting point: The Best Online Checking Accounts, June 2012 and The Best Online Savings Accounts, June 2012. (credit:<a href="http://www.flickr.com/" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name="Flickr:" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="12" data-vars-position-in-unit="21">Flickr:</a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/z0/" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name=" Aranami" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/people/z0/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="13" data-vars-position-in-unit="22"> Aranami</a>)
Move your money to a community bank that will offer better terms, or head to a credit union. The National Credit Union Administration has a Credit Union Locator tool to help you find one in your area.
For those comfortable enough with the tech, consider going to an online-only bank. Without the overhead of brick-and-mortar branches, the terms are often much better. Consumerism Commentary offers two lists that are a great starting point: The Best Online Checking Accounts, June 2012 and The Best Online Savings Accounts, June 2012. (credit:<a href="http://www.flickr.com/" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name="Flickr:" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="12" data-vars-position-in-unit="21">Flickr:</a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/z0/" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name=" Aranami" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/people/z0/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="13" data-vars-position-in-unit="22"> Aranami</a>)
1. Cable TV(29 of29)
The average cost of cable is about $100 a month right now. And it's still rising. A recent study by consumer research firm NPD Group says it "expects the average pay-TV bill to reach $123 by the year 2015 and $200 by 2020." I canceled my cable about six months ago and haven't looked back. I keep up on the TV shows I like with Netflix ($9.99 per month for streaming) and Hulu (free for basic, $7.99 per month for extended). Many networks also stream their shows on their websites. For example: ABC, NBC, The CW and Comedy Central.To learn even more, check out You Don't Have to Pay for Cable TV. (credit:<a href="http://www.flickr.com/" target="_blank" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name="Flickr:" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="7" data-vars-position-in-unit="16">Flickr:</a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/wonderlane/" target="_blank" role="link" rel="nofollow" class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" data-vars-item-name=" Wonderlane" data-vars-item-type="text" data-vars-unit-name="5b9e6252e4b03a1dcc96b2d5" data-vars-unit-type="buzz_body" data-vars-target-content-id="http://www.flickr.com/people/wonderlane/" data-vars-target-content-type="url" data-vars-type="web_external_link" data-vars-subunit-name="before_you_go_slideshow" data-vars-subunit-type="component" data-vars-position-in-subunit="8" data-vars-position-in-unit="17"> Wonderlane</a>)