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| Meta Title | How to Save Money: 28 Ways - NerdWallet |
| Meta Description | Ways to save money: 1. Automate transfers to savings. 2. Use a high-yield savings account. 3. Pay off high-interest debt first. 4. Cancel unnecessary subscriptions. 5. Get discounts on entertainment. |
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More than half of Americans (51%) think consumer prices for goods and services will get worse in 2026, according to a recent
NerdWallet survey
.
Still, almost half of Americans (46%) plan on saving money for emergencies this year, the survey says.
We're here to help you find ways to build up that savings.
Budget money to become a saver
1. Create a budget
"Get a system in place so you dont have to think too much about money," says Durriya Pierce, a certified financial planner at Fruitful Advisory.
One way to manage your money is to follow a budget. Your budget will account for your income and your expenses, allowing you to set priorities for your spending and savings. NerdWallet's
free budget template
is a great place to start, but a piece of paper works fine, too.
One method is the
50/30/20 budget
: 50% of your after-tax income goes to necessities, 30% to wants and 20% to savings and any debt payments over the minimums. If one of your allocations exceeds these percentages, you can make some adjustments.
If this 50/30/20 breakdown doesn’t work for your financial situation, that’s OK. Another
type of budget
may work better, such as the 60/30/10 budget, or the envelope system, which has you set limits for various expenses.
The best method is the one you’ll stick to, so give this some thought.Â
» See your expenses and income in one place with the
NerdWallet app
2. Set savings goals
Set a specific and realistic goal — no goal is too small. Your goals could include adding money to your retirement savings, tackling debt with extra payments or saving up for holiday gifts.
Use a
savings goal calculator
to see how much you’d have to save each month or year to reach your goal.
3. Track spending
Saving money is tough if you don't know how much of it you've been spending in the first place. Keep track of your monthly cash flow — your income minus your expenditures. Many
budget apps
can help you track spending.
4. Keep savings in a high-yield savings account
Put your money in a
high-yield savings account
. This type of account earns an above-average interest rate on deposits, which can help your bank balance grow faster than with traditional options.
5. Automate transfers
"Everything should be on automation," says Pierce.
This makes savings consistent and easy, especially when you’re working toward specific goals like paying off debt, building an emergency fund, or saving for a down payment.
Set up automatic transfers either through your bank or direct deposit from your paycheck. Pierce says you'll be surprised at how much money you'll be able to save.
Tackle debt to save on interest
6. Pay off high-interest debt
The same NerdWallet survey we mentioned earlier found that 30% of Americans plan on paying off one or more of their debts in full in 2026.
If you can speed up your
debt repayment
by making extra payments, or paying more toward the principal balance when you can, you’ll save money on total interest paid.
If you can't make extra payments right now, consider exploring ways to
make money
on the side that you can put toward your debt.
7. Lower your student loan payments
If you have student loans, enrolling in a different repayment
plan tied to your income
or family size could lower your monthly payments to a manageable level.
Other options include refinancing student loans, enrolling in autopay to trigger an interest rate discount and making extra payments so you can unload the debt faster, which cuts the overall interest you’ll pay.
8. Refinance your mortgage
If you own a home and are able to get a lower interest rate, refinancing your mortgage could save you several hundred dollars each month. But it’s important to consider other factors, such as the current interest rates, if you’re trying to decide when to refinance a mortgage.
Use our
mortgage refinance calculator
to find out how much you could save. While refinancing comes with some initial costs upfront, such as application and appraisal fees, they may be able to be recouped over time, once you start paying less each month.
Cut the cost of monthly bills
9. Prep for grocery shopping
A little work before you go to the grocery store can go a long way toward helping you
save money on groceries
. Check your pantry and make a shopping list to avoid impulse buying something you don't need. Learn how to get coupons and join loyalty programs to maximize your savings as you shop.
10. Lower your TV and internet bills
Review what you’re spending on TV and internet and assess if you’re actually using the features you’re paying for. You could lower your cable bill by as much as $40 per month by downsizing your cable package. Other options to consider are getting rid of cable, cutting some streaming services or premium subscriptions, or downgrading your internet plan
Many cable and internet companies are willing to adjust pricing to keep you as a customer.
Here's a script
that can help guide your phone call to your provider.
11. Switch to a cheaper cell phone plan
When you’re ready to save, there’s probably a
cheap cell phone plan
out there that can meet your needs. As you set out to find the best cell phone plan for your situation, you’ll want to consider network quality and whether a prepaid or postpaid plan is best for you.
12. Reduce your electric bill
Changes in your energy use can help you
lower your electric bill
. Consider plugging any insulation leaks in your home, using smart power strips, swapping in more energy-efficient appliances and switching to a smart thermostat.
13. Cancel unnecessary subscriptions
According to a recent NerdWallet survey, more than half of U.S. adults (55%) plan to significantly decrease the subscriptions they have to save money in 2026.
What about you? You might be paying for subscriptions you no longer use or need. One
NerdWallet writer found $1,470 a year
in savings after auditing her subscriptions.
Reviewing your credit card or bank statement carefully can help you flag any recurring expenses you can cut. If you sign up for free trials, make a note or set a calendar reminder to cancel before the free period ends.
» Don’t want to comb through your subscriptions manually?
NerdWallet’s app
can track and cancel them for you.
Save money when you shop
14. Map out major purchases
You can save by timing your purchases of appliances, furniture, cars, electronics and more according to annual sale periods. And if you're an
Amazon Prime
member, you can check out Prime-exclusive sales in July and October. Amazon also added a Big Spring Sale in 2026.
It’s worth confirming whether a deal is actually a deal by tracking prices over time. You can use a
shopping browser extension
to automate the deal-tracking and couponing process.
For example, the Camelizer extension from Camelcamelcamel makes it easy to view prices over time on Amazon, and the PayPal Honey extension will automatically find and apply coupons while you shop online.
15. Delay purchases with the 30-day rule
One way to avoid overspending is to give yourself a cooling-off period between the time an item catches your eye and when you actually make the purchase. The 30-day rule gives you more time to decide whether you really want or need the item.
If you’re shopping online, consider putting the item in your shopping cart and then walking away until you’ve had more time to think it over. (In some cases, you might even get a coupon code when the retailer notices you abandoned the cart.)
If 30 days seems like too long to wait, you can try shorter periods like a 24- or 48-hour delay.
16. Add friction to make online shopping harder
Making it more difficult to shop online might help you stop spending money on things you may not need. Try deleting your saved billing and credit card information, or removing your Apple Pay from your devices so you have to enter details each time.
You could also do what Nerd Amanda Barroso did, and use a device like Brick to block access to shopping apps — and even social media, where influencers often promote things to buy.
Adding these small barriers gave her more time to pause and think if the item in her cart was something she actually needed. You can try the same.
17. Stock up on household supplies when they’re cheap
It can feel like you’re constantly buying items like dishwashing soap, paper towels or toiletries. Track your inventory of household supplies and consider buying these items in bulk or stocking up when they’re on sale. It may be cheaper than rushing to buy them last-minute when they’re selling at full price.
18. Shop consignment and thrift stores
Thrift and consignment stores sell previously owned items for less than they would be at a traditional store. At consignment shops, you could also bring in your own stuff to sell.
Whether buying at a consignment or thrift store, compare prices to ensure you’re getting a reasonable discount.
19. Get creative with gifts
You can save money with affordable gift ideas, like baking cookies, creating art or preparing someone dinner. You can also give someone the gift of your time by offering to take them to a free museum or event.
To plan for costs, make a calendar for all the important gift-giving events for the year. Then create a savings bucket specifically for gifts, and buy the items during major sale periods such as Black Friday.
20. Find ways to get free items
Programs such as The Freecycle Network and Buy Nothing groups make it easier to get items you need for free. You can exchange items locally for free with the goal of reducing waste and helping the environment.
Check for these opportunities on Nextdoor, Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist, too.
21. Cash in on your birthday
Birthday freebies
and discounts could score you free food or rewards to redeem on purchases from your favorite stores and restaurants. If you've been keeping a wishlist of things you want to buy, this might be the time to use those discounts to save.
Spend less money on transportation
22. Lower your car costs
Refinancing your auto loan
could save you considerably over the life of your loan. Shopping around for car insurance can also help you cut costs compared with simply letting your current policy auto-renew.
23. Reduce gas costs
You can't control gas prices, but you can do several things to save on fuel, such as adhering to your car’s maintenance schedule and stacking errands to avoid unnecessary trips.
Try using a
gas app
or buying groceries from a store that offers fuel points to save money. Warehouse stores like Costco and Sam's Club typically offer lower prices on fuel, so fill up before you stock up.
24. Use car sharing services
If you need to rent a car, consider a rental car alternative, such as car-sharing services Turo or Getaround. Research to see if car-sharing services work out to be cheaper than larger rental companies.
If you don’t drive much, you may also find using car-sharing services are less expensive than owning a car or using taxis or ride-shares.
Find cheaper ways to be entertained
25. Minimize meals out
One of the easiest expenses to cut is restaurant meals, since eating out tends to be pricier than cooking at home. If you do still want to eat at restaurants, try to reduce the frequency and take advantage restaurant rewards your credit cards may offer.
You can find restaurants with happy hour discounts or split an entree with your dining companion to eat out on a budget. Order water instead of soda or alcoholic beverages and skipping dessert can help stretch your budget as well.
If you have kids, find restaurants where kids eat free to help cut costs — just be sure to call and find out the details first.
26. Reduce your meal delivery, too
"After housing and childcare, the third-largest expense I often see is food delivery — Uber Eats, DoorDash, and similar services," said Valerie A. Rivera, a certified financial planner in Chicago and founder of FirstGen Wealth.
It's understandable for busy professionals, but it also adds up. Think about what would happen if you redirected $50 every month that was going to takeout and put it in a savings account, she said.
You could start by cutting back. Instead of ordering meal delivery four times a month, for example, limit yourself to just once.
27. Get discounts on entertainment
Your local community might offer free concerts, movies and other events. Find
free (or cheap) things to do
by checking listings at libraries, churches and websites such as Facebook and Eventbrite.
You can also ask about discounts for older adults, teachers, students,
military members or veterans
, first responders and more.
28. BYO snacks
Getting out and having new experiences can be expensive. Bring your own coffee or food to avoid event pricing. This is even more true if you have small kids — packing their favorite snacks and water bottles can save money and prevent meltdowns.
If you have a streaming subscription (and you're planning to keep it) have a movie night with cheap snacks instead of going to the theater.
Where to get help when you can't afford to save
If you’re budgeting and living frugally and still don’t have enough left to save, consider getting help.
Government.
Government assistance programs may help you get discounts on utility bills, fund your food budget, offset child care expenses and more. Keep in mind that many of these government programs are available only to families considered to be low income.
211.
Visiting 211.org or calling 2-1-1 will connect you with local experts who can explain and potentially refer you to social service programs that may save you money. This confidential, 24/7 resource may help with expenses related to housing, health care, emergencies, crises and food.
Lenders and service providers.
If you can’t pay your bill to a lender or service provider, call the company’s customer service line. Ask for help in the form of lowered or deferred payments, rebates, assistance programs or an alternative payment plan.
Here’s exactly what to say
when you call a utility company.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I save each month?
How much should I save each month?
How can I save money fast?
How can I save money fast?
Saving money quickly often comes down to consistency — and automating your savings can help take the mental effort out of it. Next, make your money work harder by putting it in a high-yield savings account. Learn more about
how to get a high savings rate
.
How can I build an emergency fund?
How can I build an emergency fund?
Building an
emergency fund
starts with setting a savings goal and working toward it. Financial experts agree that saving three to six months of expenses is ideal, but that can feel overwhelming. The most important step is to start. Try setting a goal to save $500 and build up from there. You can use your company’s direct deposit feature to automatically move money into your savings each month.
If your bank offers the options to create savings buckets, set aside your emergency fund so you know how much you have and aren’t tempted to pull from it to pay for non-emergency expenses.
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[Finance](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance)
28 Proven Ways to Save Money
Advertiser disclosure
### You're our first priority. Every time.
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# 28 Proven Ways to Save Money
Ways to save include tracking your spending, shopping smart, canceling subscriptions and more.
[](https://www.nerdwallet.com/author/elizabeth-ayoola)
Written by
Elizabeth Ayoola
[](https://www.nerdwallet.com/author/elizabeth-ayoola)
[Elizabeth Ayoola](https://www.nerdwallet.com/author/elizabeth-ayoola)
Writer
8 years of experience
Expertise
- Retirement
- credit
- wellness
Elizabeth Ayoola is a Lead Multimedia Producer and Co-Host of the "Smart Money" podcast. Before delving into the podcast world, Elizabeth acquired over ten years of experience as a writer, and seven were spent covering personal finance topics. Her journey to finance writing started with a goal to learn as much as she could about how to attain financial freedom and share information with others about how to do it, too. This led her to Debt.com, where she covered topics relating to mortgages, debt and credit. Her articles have appeared on platforms like Washington Post, The Associated Press, The Washington Post, Yahoo, Essence, The Knot, PopSugar and Parents.com. Elizabeth has also done extensive spokesperson work and appeared on multiple renowned national networks like Good Morning America, ABC, NBC, and Fox to discuss money.
Published in 
[](https://www.nerdwallet.com/author/tommy-tindall)
Co-written by
Tommy Tindall
[](https://www.nerdwallet.com/author/tommy-tindall)
[Tommy Tindall](https://www.nerdwallet.com/author/tommy-tindall)
Lead Writer & Content Strategist
19 years of experience
Expertise
- Making money
- Saving money
- Budgeting
- Shopping
Tommy Tindall is a lead writer and content strategist covering how to make money — and how to keep it. He’s recorded and written about his experience testing popular gig jobs like driving for Uber, delivering with DoorDash and full-service shopping for Instacart. He loves making an extra buck, but laments the hours of awkward silence he endured as an Uber driver (never again).
Cool kids might call him a content creator because he makes YouTube videos for the NerdWallet channel and app, but he himself is no longer very cool. Ask him about budgeting apps — he's tried most of them, but still prefers a good ole Google sheet to track spending. Then be sure to smash that “like” and “subscribe” button.
Before NerdWallet, Tommy held decidedly more boring jobs at Fannie Mae and Booz Allen Hamilton. Today, he feels super privileged to write for you, the consumer.
Published in 
[](https://www.nerdwallet.com/author/pamela-de-la-fuente)
Edited by
Pamela de la Fuente
[](https://www.nerdwallet.com/author/pamela-de-la-fuente)
[Pamela de la Fuente](https://www.nerdwallet.com/author/pamela-de-la-fuente)
Managing Editor
23 years of experience
Expertise
- Personal Finance
- Budgeting
- Taxes
- Retirement
- Underrepresented communities
Pamela de la Fuente is a managing editor of NerdWallet's personal finance content. She leads budgeting, money-making, consumer credit and and debt coverage.
Ask her and her talented team about why credit scores matter, how to save money on your grocery bill, finding the right side hustle, how to protect your identity for free and more.
Previously, she led taxes and retirement coverage at NerdWallet.
Pamela joined NerdWallet after working at companies including Hallmark Cards, Sprint Corp. and The Kansas City Star. She has been a writer and editor for more than 20 years.
Pamela is a thought leader in content diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging, and finds ways to make every piece of content conversational and accessible to all.
She is a graduate of the Maynard Institute's Maynard 200 program, and the National Association of Black Journalists Executive Leadership Academy. She is a two-time winner of the Kansas City Association of Black Journalists' President's Award. She was also founding co-chair of NerdWallet's Nerds of Color employee resource group.
other
Updated
Apr 6, 2026
Fact Checked
How is this page expert verified?
NerdWallet's content is fact-checked for accuracy, timeliness and relevance. It undergoes a thorough review process involving writers and editors to ensure the information is as clear and complete as possible.
[More on our editorial rigor](https://www.nerdwallet.com/l/nerdwallet-editorial-guidelines)
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This page includes information about these cards, currently unavailable on NerdWallet. The information has been collected by NerdWallet and has not been provided or reviewed by the card issuer.
More than half of Americans (51%) think consumer prices for goods and services will get worse in 2026, according to a recent [NerdWallet survey](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/studies/2026-consumer-outlook-report).
Still, almost half of Americans (46%) plan on saving money for emergencies this year, the survey says.
We're here to help you find ways to build up that savings.
## Budget money to become a saver
### 1\. Create a budget
"Get a system in place so you dont have to think too much about money," says Durriya Pierce, a certified financial planner at Fruitful Advisory.
One way to manage your money is to follow a budget. Your budget will account for your income and your expenses, allowing you to set priorities for your spending and savings. NerdWallet's [free budget template](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/budget-worksheet) is a great place to start, but a piece of paper works fine, too.
One method is the [50/30/20 budget](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/nerdwallet-budget-calculator): 50% of your after-tax income goes to necessities, 30% to wants and 20% to savings and any debt payments over the minimums. If one of your allocations exceeds these percentages, you can make some adjustments.
If this 50/30/20 breakdown doesn’t work for your financial situation, that’s OK. Another [type of budget](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/how-to-choose-the-right-budget-system) may work better, such as the 60/30/10 budget, or the envelope system, which has you set limits for various expenses.
The best method is the one you’ll stick to, so give this some thought.
» See your expenses and income in one place with the [NerdWallet app](https://nerdwallet.onelink.me/3687710914/dcbu9ifd)
### 2\. Set savings goals
Set a specific and realistic goal — no goal is too small. Your goals could include adding money to your retirement savings, tackling debt with extra payments or saving up for holiday gifts.
Use a [savings goal calculator](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/savings-goal-calculator) to see how much you’d have to save each month or year to reach your goal.
### Meet MoneyNerd, your weekly news decoder
So much news. So little time. NerdWallet's new weekly newsletter makes sense of the headlines that affect your wallet.
[SUBSCRIBE FOR FREE](https://moneynerd-nerdwallet.beehiiv.com/)

### 3\. Track spending
Saving money is tough if you don't know how much of it you've been spending in the first place. Keep track of your monthly cash flow — your income minus your expenditures. Many [budget apps](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/best-budget-apps) can help you track spending.
### 4\. Keep savings in a high-yield savings account
Put your money in a [high-yield savings account](https://www.nerdwallet.com/banking/learn/high-interest-savings-account). This type of account earns an above-average interest rate on deposits, which can help your bank balance grow faster than with traditional options.
### 5\. Automate transfers
"Everything should be on automation," says Pierce.
This makes savings consistent and easy, especially when you’re working toward specific goals like paying off debt, building an emergency fund, or saving for a down payment.
Set up automatic transfers either through your bank or direct deposit from your paycheck. Pierce says you'll be surprised at how much money you'll be able to save.
## Tackle debt to save on interest
### 6\. Pay off high-interest debt
The same NerdWallet survey we mentioned earlier found that 30% of Americans plan on paying off one or more of their debts in full in 2026.
If you can speed up your [debt repayment](https://www.nerdwallet.com/personal-loans/learn/pay-off-debt) by making extra payments, or paying more toward the principal balance when you can, you’ll save money on total interest paid.
If you can't make extra payments right now, consider exploring ways to [make money](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/how-to-make-money) on the side that you can put toward your debt.
### 7\. Lower your student loan payments
If you have student loans, enrolling in a different repayment [plan tied to your income](https://www.nerdwallet.com/student-loans/learn/income-driven-repayment-right) or family size could lower your monthly payments to a manageable level.
Other options include refinancing student loans, enrolling in autopay to trigger an interest rate discount and making extra payments so you can unload the debt faster, which cuts the overall interest you’ll pay.
### 8\. Refinance your mortgage
If you own a home and are able to get a lower interest rate, refinancing your mortgage could save you several hundred dollars each month. But it’s important to consider other factors, such as the current interest rates, if you’re trying to decide when to refinance a mortgage.
Use our [mortgage refinance calculator](https://www.nerdwallet.com/mortgages/calculators/refinance-calculator) to find out how much you could save. While refinancing comes with some initial costs upfront, such as application and appraisal fees, they may be able to be recouped over time, once you start paying less each month.
## Cut the cost of monthly bills
### 9\. Prep for grocery shopping
A little work before you go to the grocery store can go a long way toward helping you [save money on groceries](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/ways-to-save-money-on-food-groceries). Check your pantry and make a shopping list to avoid impulse buying something you don't need. Learn how to get coupons and join loyalty programs to maximize your savings as you shop.
» Stay on budget with a [grocery list app](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/best-grocery-list-apps)
### 10\. Lower your TV and internet bills
Review what you’re spending on TV and internet and assess if you’re actually using the features you’re paying for. You could lower your cable bill by as much as \$40 per month by downsizing your cable package. Other options to consider are getting rid of cable, cutting some streaming services or premium subscriptions, or downgrading your internet plan
Many cable and internet companies are willing to adjust pricing to keep you as a customer. [Here's a script](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/use-this-script-to-lower-your-cable-and-internet-bills) that can help guide your phone call to your provider.
### 11\. Switch to a cheaper cell phone plan
When you’re ready to save, there’s probably a [cheap cell phone plan](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/best-cheap-cell-phone-plans) out there that can meet your needs. As you set out to find the best cell phone plan for your situation, you’ll want to consider network quality and whether a prepaid or postpaid plan is best for you.
### 12\. Reduce your electric bill
Changes in your energy use can help you [lower your electric bill](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/how-to-save-money-on-your-electric-bill). Consider plugging any insulation leaks in your home, using smart power strips, swapping in more energy-efficient appliances and switching to a smart thermostat.
### 13\. Cancel unnecessary subscriptions
According to a recent NerdWallet survey, more than half of U.S. adults (55%) plan to significantly decrease the subscriptions they have to save money in 2026.
What about you? You might be paying for subscriptions you no longer use or need. One [NerdWallet writer found \$1,470 a year](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/studies/subscription-audit) in savings after auditing her subscriptions.
Reviewing your credit card or bank statement carefully can help you flag any recurring expenses you can cut. If you sign up for free trials, make a note or set a calendar reminder to cancel before the free period ends.
» Don’t want to comb through your subscriptions manually? [NerdWallet’s app](https://nerdwallet.onelink.me/3687710914/7k2faed2) can track and cancel them for you.
## Save money when you shop
### 14\. Map out major purchases
You can save by timing your purchases of appliances, furniture, cars, electronics and more according to annual sale periods. And if you're an [Amazon Prime](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/amazon-prime-benefits-cost-worth) member, you can check out Prime-exclusive sales in July and October. Amazon also added a Big Spring Sale in 2026.
It’s worth confirming whether a deal is actually a deal by tracking prices over time. You can use a [shopping browser extension](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/browser-extensions-online-shopping) to automate the deal-tracking and couponing process.
For example, the Camelizer extension from Camelcamelcamel makes it easy to view prices over time on Amazon, and the PayPal Honey extension will automatically find and apply coupons while you shop online.
### 15\. Delay purchases with the 30-day rule
One way to avoid overspending is to give yourself a cooling-off period between the time an item catches your eye and when you actually make the purchase. The 30-day rule gives you more time to decide whether you really want or need the item.
If you’re shopping online, consider putting the item in your shopping cart and then walking away until you’ve had more time to think it over. (In some cases, you might even get a coupon code when the retailer notices you abandoned the cart.)
If 30 days seems like too long to wait, you can try shorter periods like a 24- or 48-hour delay.
### 16\. Add friction to make online shopping harder
Making it more difficult to shop online might help you stop spending money on things you may not need. Try deleting your saved billing and credit card information, or removing your Apple Pay from your devices so you have to enter details each time.
You could also do what Nerd Amanda Barroso did, and use a device like Brick to block access to shopping apps — and even social media, where influencers often promote things to buy.
Adding these small barriers gave her more time to pause and think if the item in her cart was something she actually needed. You can try the same.
» MORE: [How I saved hundreds by 'Bricking' my phone](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/news/phone-brick-experiment)
### 17\. Stock up on household supplies when they’re cheap
It can feel like you’re constantly buying items like dishwashing soap, paper towels or toiletries. Track your inventory of household supplies and consider buying these items in bulk or stocking up when they’re on sale. It may be cheaper than rushing to buy them last-minute when they’re selling at full price.
### 18\. Shop consignment and thrift stores
Thrift and consignment stores sell previously owned items for less than they would be at a traditional store. At consignment shops, you could also bring in your own stuff to sell.
Whether buying at a consignment or thrift store, compare prices to ensure you’re getting a reasonable discount.
### 19\. Get creative with gifts
You can save money with affordable gift ideas, like baking cookies, creating art or preparing someone dinner. You can also give someone the gift of your time by offering to take them to a free museum or event.
To plan for costs, make a calendar for all the important gift-giving events for the year. Then create a savings bucket specifically for gifts, and buy the items during major sale periods such as Black Friday.
### 20\. Find ways to get free items
Programs such as The Freecycle Network and Buy Nothing groups make it easier to get items you need for free. You can exchange items locally for free with the goal of reducing waste and helping the environment.
Check for these opportunities on Nextdoor, Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist, too.
### 21\. Cash in on your birthday
[Birthday freebies](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/birthday-freebies) and discounts could score you free food or rewards to redeem on purchases from your favorite stores and restaurants. If you've been keeping a wishlist of things you want to buy, this might be the time to use those discounts to save.
## Spend less money on transportation
### 22\. Lower your car costs
[Refinancing your auto loan](https://www.nerdwallet.com/auto-loans/best/refinance-car-loan) could save you considerably over the life of your loan. Shopping around for car insurance can also help you cut costs compared with simply letting your current policy auto-renew.
### 23\. Reduce gas costs
You can't control gas prices, but you can do several things to save on fuel, such as adhering to your car’s maintenance schedule and stacking errands to avoid unnecessary trips.
Try using a [gas app](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/gas-apps) or buying groceries from a store that offers fuel points to save money. Warehouse stores like Costco and Sam's Club typically offer lower prices on fuel, so fill up before you stock up.
### 24\. Use car sharing services
If you need to rent a car, consider a rental car alternative, such as car-sharing services Turo or Getaround. Research to see if car-sharing services work out to be cheaper than larger rental companies.
If you don’t drive much, you may also find using car-sharing services are less expensive than owning a car or using taxis or ride-shares.
## Find cheaper ways to be entertained
### 25\. Minimize meals out
One of the easiest expenses to cut is restaurant meals, since eating out tends to be pricier than cooking at home. If you do still want to eat at restaurants, try to reduce the frequency and take advantage restaurant rewards your credit cards may offer.
You can find restaurants with happy hour discounts or split an entree with your dining companion to eat out on a budget. Order water instead of soda or alcoholic beverages and skipping dessert can help stretch your budget as well.
If you have kids, find restaurants where kids eat free to help cut costs — just be sure to call and find out the details first.
### 26\. Reduce your meal delivery, too
"After housing and childcare, the third-largest expense I often see is food delivery — Uber Eats, DoorDash, and similar services," said Valerie A. Rivera, a certified financial planner in Chicago and founder of FirstGen Wealth.
It's understandable for busy professionals, but it also adds up. Think about what would happen if you redirected \$50 every month that was going to takeout and put it in a savings account, she said.
You could start by cutting back. Instead of ordering meal delivery four times a month, for example, limit yourself to just once.
» MORE: [Is DoorDash eating into your retirement?](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/doordash-eating-into-retirement)
### 27\. Get discounts on entertainment
Take advantage of [free days at museums and national parks](https://www.nerdwallet.com/travel/learn/free-national-park-days) to save on entertainment costs.
Your local community might offer free concerts, movies and other events. Find [free (or cheap) things to do](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/free-cheap-things-to-do) by checking listings at libraries, churches and websites such as Facebook and Eventbrite.
You can also ask about discounts for older adults, teachers, students, [military members or veterans](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/military-discounts), first responders and more.
### 28\. BYO snacks
Getting out and having new experiences can be expensive. Bring your own coffee or food to avoid event pricing. This is even more true if you have small kids — packing their favorite snacks and water bottles can save money and prevent meltdowns.
If you have a streaming subscription (and you're planning to keep it) have a movie night with cheap snacks instead of going to the theater.
## Where to get help when you can't afford to save
If you’re budgeting and living frugally and still don’t have enough left to save, consider getting help.
Government. Government assistance programs may help you get discounts on utility bills, fund your food budget, offset child care expenses and more. Keep in mind that many of these government programs are available only to families considered to be low income.
Learn about what counts as low income and how to potentially [get money from the government](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/6-ways-to-get-free-money-from-the-government).
211\. Visiting 211.org or calling 2-1-1 will connect you with local experts who can explain and potentially refer you to social service programs that may save you money. This confidential, 24/7 resource may help with expenses related to housing, health care, emergencies, crises and food.
Lenders and service providers. If you can’t pay your bill to a lender or service provider, call the company’s customer service line. Ask for help in the form of lowered or deferred payments, rebates, assistance programs or an alternative payment plan. [Here’s exactly what to say](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/utility-bills-script) when you call a utility company.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I save each month? How much should I save each month?
Saving from 10% to 20% of your paycheck is a solid goal, but the details can get more complicated. Learn how to determine [how much you should save each month](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/how-much-should-i-save-each-month).
How can I save money fast? How can I save money fast?
Saving money quickly often comes down to consistency — and automating your savings can help take the mental effort out of it. Next, make your money work harder by putting it in a high-yield savings account. Learn more about [how to get a high savings rate](https://www.nerdwallet.com/banking/learn/your-easiest-new-years-resolution-make-your-money-work-harder).
How can I build an emergency fund? How can I build an emergency fund?
Building an [emergency fund](https://www.nerdwallet.com/banking/learn/emergency-fund-why-it-matters) starts with setting a savings goal and working toward it. Financial experts agree that saving three to six months of expenses is ideal, but that can feel overwhelming. The most important step is to start. Try setting a goal to save \$500 and build up from there. You can use your company’s direct deposit feature to automatically move money into your savings each month.
If your bank offers the options to create savings buckets, set aside your emergency fund so you know how much you have and aren’t tempted to pull from it to pay for non-emergency expenses.
Explore more on
[The Financial Glow Up](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/hubs/glowup)[Money News You Can Use](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/news)[Money Management](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/hubs/money-management)[Making Money](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/hubs/making-money)[Paying Your Bills](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/hubs/paying-your-bills)[Personal Finance](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance)
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About the authors
[](https://www.nerdwallet.com/author/elizabeth-ayoola)
[Elizabeth Ayoola](https://www.nerdwallet.com/author/elizabeth-ayoola)
Elizabeth Ayoola is a Lead Multimedia Producer and Co-Host of the "Smart Money" podcast. Before delving into the podcast world, Elizabeth acquired over ten years of experience as a writer, and seven were spent covering personal finance topics. Her journey to finance writing started with a goal to learn as much as she could about how to attain financial freedom and share information with others about how to do it, too. This led her to Debt.com, where she covered topics relating to mortgages, debt and credit. Her articles have appeared on platforms like Washington Post, The Associated Press, The Washington Post, Yahoo, Essence, The Knot, PopSugar and Parents.com. Elizabeth has also done extensive spokesperson work and appeared on multiple renowned national networks like Good Morning America, ABC, NBC, and Fox to discuss money.
Published in 
[](https://www.nerdwallet.com/author/tommy-tindall)
[Tommy Tindall](https://www.nerdwallet.com/author/tommy-tindall)
Tommy Tindall is a lead writer and content strategist covering how to make money — and how to keep it. He’s recorded and written about his experience testing popular gig jobs like driving for Uber, delivering with DoorDash and full-service shopping for Instacart. He loves making an extra buck, but laments the hours of awkward silence he endured as an Uber driver (never again).
Cool kids might call him a content creator because he makes YouTube videos for the NerdWallet channel and app, but he himself is no longer very cool. Ask him about budgeting apps — he's tried most of them, but still prefers a good ole Google sheet to track spending. Then be sure to smash that “like” and “subscribe” button.
Before NerdWallet, Tommy held decidedly more boring jobs at Fannie Mae and Booz Allen Hamilton. Today, he feels super privileged to write for you, the consumer.
Published in 
[NerdWallet is committed to editorial integrity.](https://www.nerdwallet.com/p/advertiser-disclosures#finance)
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- [Budget money to become a saver](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/how-to-save-money#budget-money-to-become-a-saver)
Budget money to become a saver
- [1\. Create a budget](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/how-to-save-money#create-a-budget)
- [2\. Set savings goals](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/how-to-save-money#set-savings-goals)
- [3\. Track spending](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/how-to-save-money#track-spending)
- [4\. Keep savings in a high-yield savings account](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/how-to-save-money#keep-savings-in-a-highyield-savings-account)
- [5\. Automate transfers](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/how-to-save-money#automate-transfers)
- [Tackle debt to save on interest](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/how-to-save-money#tackle-debt-to-save-on-interest)
Tackle debt to save on interest
- [6\. Pay off high-interest debt](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/how-to-save-money#pay-off-highinterest-debt)
- [7\. Lower your student loan payments](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/how-to-save-money#lower-your-student-loan-payments)
- [8\. Refinance your mortgage](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/how-to-save-money#refinance-your-mortgage)
- [Cut the cost of monthly bills](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/how-to-save-money#cut-the-cost-of-monthly-bills)
Cut the cost of monthly bills
- [9\. Prep for grocery shopping](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/how-to-save-money#prep-for-grocery-shopping)
- [10\. Lower your TV and internet bills](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/how-to-save-money#lower-your-tv-and-internet-bills)
- [11\. Switch to a cheaper cell phone plan](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/how-to-save-money#switch-to-a-cheaper-cell-phone-plan)
- [12\. Reduce your electric bill](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/how-to-save-money#reduce-your-electric-bill)
- [13\. Cancel unnecessary subscriptions](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/how-to-save-money#cancel-unnecessary-subscriptions)
- [Save money when you shop](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/how-to-save-money#save-money-when-you-shop)
Save money when you shop
- [14\. Map out major purchases](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/how-to-save-money#map-out-major-purchases)
- [15\. Delay purchases with the 30-day rule](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/how-to-save-money#delay-purchases-with-the-30day-rule)
- [16\. Add friction to make online shopping harder](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/how-to-save-money#add-friction-to-make-online-shopping-harder)
- [17\. Stock up on household supplies when they’re cheap](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/how-to-save-money#stock-up-on-household-supplies-when-theyre-cheap)
- [18\. Shop consignment and thrift stores](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/how-to-save-money#shop-consignment-and-thrift-stores)
- [19\. Get creative with gifts](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/how-to-save-money#get-creative-with-gifts)
- [20\. Find ways to get free items](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/how-to-save-money#find-ways-to-get-free-items)
- [21\. Cash in on your birthday](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/how-to-save-money#cash-in-on-your-birthday)
- [Spend less money on transportation](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/how-to-save-money#spend-less-money-on-transportation)
Spend less money on transportation
- [22\. Lower your car costs](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/how-to-save-money#lower-your-car-costs)
- [23\. Reduce gas costs](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/how-to-save-money#reduce-gas-costs)
- [24\. Use car sharing services](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/how-to-save-money#use-car-sharing-services)
- [Find cheaper ways to be entertained](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/how-to-save-money#find-cheaper-ways-to-be-entertained)
Find cheaper ways to be entertained
- [25\. Minimize meals out](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/how-to-save-money#minimize-meals-out)
- [26\. Reduce your meal delivery, too](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/how-to-save-money#reduce-your-meal-delivery-too)
- [27\. Get discounts on entertainment](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/how-to-save-money#get-discounts-on-entertainment)
- [28\. BYO snacks](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/how-to-save-money#byo-snacks)
- [Where to get help when you can't afford to save](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/how-to-save-money#where-to-get-help-when-you-cant-afford-to-save)
Helpful Resources
[Savings Goal Calculator](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/savings-goal-calculator)
[8 Ways to Track Monthly Expenses](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/tracking-monthly-expenses)
[How to Budget Money in 5 Steps](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/how-to-budget)
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[ Use This Script to Cut Your Cell Phone Bill  2 By Laura McMullen, AI-Assisted NerdWallet](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/cut-your-cell-phone-bill-with-this-script)
[ Frugal Living Comprehensive Guide: 30+ Ways to Find Serious Savings  2 By Kelsey Sheehy, Hal M. Bundrick, CFP®](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/frugal-living-guide)
[ 13 Ways to Get Free Stuff  3 By Lauren Schwahn, Amanda Barroso, Lisa Mulka](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/ways-to-get-free-stuff)
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[%22%3E%3Cstop%20offset%3D%220%22%20style%3D%22stop-color%3A%2300A0FF%22%2F%3E%3Cstop%20offset%3D%226.569999e-03%22%20style%3D%22stop-color%3A%2300A1FF%22%2F%3E%3Cstop%20offset%3D%220.2601%22%20style%3D%22stop-color%3A%2300BEFF%22%2F%3E%3Cstop%20offset%3D%220.5122%22%20style%3D%22stop-color%3A%2300D2FF%22%2F%3E%3Cstop%20offset%3D%220.7604%22%20style%3D%22stop-color%3A%2300DFFF%22%2F%3E%3Cstop%20offset%3D%221%22%20style%3D%22stop-color%3A%2300E3FF%22%2F%3E%3C%2FlinearGradient%3E%3Cpath%20fill-rule%3D%22evenodd%22%20clip-rule%3D%22evenodd%22%20fill%3D%22url\(%23SVGID_1_\)%22%20d%3D%22M418.4%2C302.1c-11.6%2C12.5-18.3%2C31.6-18.3%2C56.6v886.7c0%2C25%2C6.7%2C44.1%2C18.7%2C56.1l3.1%2C2.7l496.8-496.8v-11.1%20L421.5%2C299.4C421.5%2C299.4%2C418.4%2C302.1%2C418.4%2C302.1z%22%2F%3E%3ClinearGradient%20id%3D%22SVGID_2_%22%20gradientUnits%3D%22userSpaceOnUse%22%20x1%3D%221712.6624%22%20y1%3D%221274.8376%22%20x2%3D%221606.5613%22%20y2%3D%221274.8376%22%20gradientTransform%3D%22matrix\(9.145%200%200%20-7.7%20-14305.5381%2010618.251\)%22%3E%3Cstop%20offset%3D%220%22%20style%3D%22stop-color%3A%23FFE000%22%2F%3E%3Cstop%20offset%3D%220.4087%22%20style%3D%22stop-color%3A%23FFBD00%22%2F%3E%3Cstop%20offset%3D%220.7754%22%20style%3D%22stop-color%3A%23FFA500%22%2F%3E%3Cstop%20offset%3D%221%22%20style%3D%22stop-color%3A%23FF9C00%22%2F%3E%3C%2FlinearGradient%3E%3Cpath%20fill-rule%3D%22evenodd%22%20clip-rule%3D%22evenodd%22%20fill%3D%22url\(%23SVGID_2_\)%22%20d%3D%22M1084%2C973.5L918.3%2C807.8v-11.6L1084%2C630.5l3.6%2C2.2l196%2C111.4c56.1%2C31.6%2C56.1%2C83.8%2C0%2C115.8l-196%2C111.4%20C1087.6%2C971.3%2C1084%2C973.5%2C1084%2C973.5z%22%2F%3E%3ClinearGradient%20id%3D%22SVGID_3_%22%20gradientUnits%3D%22userSpaceOnUse%22%20x1%3D%221707.4414%22%20y1%3D%221290.0475%22%20x2%3D%221646.682%22%20y2%3D%221211.2225%22%20gradientTransform%3D%22matrix\(15.02%200%200%20-11.5775%20-24650.2285%2015829.6484\)%22%3E%3Cstop%20offset%3D%220%22%20style%3D%22stop-color%3A%23FF3A44%22%2F%3E%3Cstop%20offset%3D%221%22%20style%3D%22stop-color%3A%23C31162%22%2F%3E%3C%2FlinearGradient%3E%3Cpath%20fill%3D%22url\(%23SVGID_3_\)%22%20fill-rule%3D%22evenodd%22%20clip-rule%3D%22evenodd%22%20d%3D%22M1087.6%2C971.3L918.3%2C802l-499.9%2C499.9c18.3%2C19.6%2C49%2C21.8%2C83.3%2C2.7L1087.6%2C971.3%22%2F%3E%3ClinearGradient%20id%3D%22SVGID_4_%22%20gradientUnits%3D%22userSpaceOnUse%22%20x1%3D%221660.6357%22%20y1%3D%221365.6676%22%20x2%3D%221687.767%22%20y2%3D%221330.4501%22%20gradientTransform%3D%22matrix\(15.02%200%200%20-11.5715%20-24650.2285%2015809.9922\)%22%3E%3Cstop%20offset%3D%220%22%20style%3D%22stop-color%3A%2332A071%22%2F%3E%3Cstop%20offset%3D%226.850000e-02%22%20style%3D%22stop-color%3A%232DA771%22%2F%3E%3Cstop%20offset%3D%220.4762%22%20style%3D%22stop-color%3A%2315CF74%22%2F%3E%3Cstop%20offset%3D%220.8009%22%20style%3D%22stop-color%3A%2306E775%22%2F%3E%3Cstop%20offset%3D%221%22%20style%3D%22stop-color%3A%2300F076%22%2F%3E%3C%2FlinearGradient%3E%3Cpath%20fill%3D%22url\(%23SVGID_4_\)%22%20fill-rule%3D%22evenodd%22%20enable-background%3D%22new%22%20clip-rule%3D%22evenodd%22%20d%3D%22M1087.6%2C632.7L501.7%2C299.9c-34.3-19.6-65.1-16.9-83.3%2C2.7L918.3%2C802L1087.6%2C632.7z%22%2F%3E%3Cpath%20fill-rule%3D%22evenodd%22%20clip-rule%3D%22evenodd%22%20opacity%3D%220.2%22%20d%3D%22M1084%2C967.7l-581.9%2C330.6c-32.5%2C18.7-61.5%2C17.4-80.2%2C0.4l-3.1%2C3.1l3.1%2C2.7c18.7%2C16.9%2C47.7%2C18.3%2C80.2-0.4%20L1088%2C971.3C1088%2C971.3%2C1084%2C967.7%2C1084%2C967.7z%22%2F%3E%3Cpath%20fill-rule%3D%22evenodd%22%20clip-rule%3D%22evenodd%22%20opacity%3D%220.12%22%20enable-background%3D%22new%22%20d%3D%22M1283.6%2C854.1l-200.1%2C113.6l3.6%2C3.6l196-111.4c28.1-16%2C41.9-37%2C41.9-57.9C1323.3%2C821.2%2C1309%2C839.4%2C1283.6%2C854.1%20z%22%2F%3E%3Cpath%20fill-rule%3D%22evenodd%22%20clip-rule%3D%22evenodd%22%20opacity%3D%220.25%22%20enable-background%3D%22new%22%20d%3D%22M501.7%2C305.7l781.9%2C444.2c25.4%2C14.3%2C39.7%2C33%2C41.9%2C52.1c0-20.9-13.8-41.9-41.9-57.9L501.7%2C299.9%20c-56.1-32.1-101.6-5.3-101.6%2C58.8v5.8C400.1%2C300.3%2C445.6%2C274%2C501.7%2C305.7z%22%2F%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E)](https://nerdwallet.onelink.me/3687710914/233a7a41)
4\.3
31,200+ reviews

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NerdWallet Compare, Inc. NMLS ID\# 1617539[NMLS Consumer Access](https://www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org/EntityDetails.aspx/COMPANY/1617539) \|[Licenses and Disclosures](https://www.nerdwallet.com/p/nerdwallet-compare-inc-licenses-and-disclosures)
California: California Finance Lender loans arranged pursuant to Department of Financial Protection and Innovation Finance Lenders License \#60DBO-74812
Insurance Services offered through NerdWallet Insurance Services, Inc. (CA resident license no.OK92033) [Insurance Licenses](https://www.nerdwallet.com/nerdwallet-insurance-services-inc-licenses-and-disclosures)
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California: California Finance Lender loans arranged pursuant to the Department of Financial Protection and Innovation Finance Lenders License \#603L288
NerdWallet has engaged Atomic Invest LLC (“Atomic”), an SEC-registered investment adviser, to bring you the opportunity to open investment advisory accounts (Automated Investing Account and/or Treasury Account) with Atomic. NerdWallet receives compensation of 0% to 0.85% of assets under management annualized, payable monthly, for each referred client who opens an Atomic account and a percentage of free cash interest earned by clients, which creates a conflict of interest. Brokerage services for Atomic are provided by Atomic Brokerage LLC ("Atomic Brokerage"), member of [FINRA](https://www.finra.org/#/)/[SIPC](https://www.sipc.org/) and an affiliate of Atomic, which creates a conflict of interest. See details about Atomic, in their [Form CRS](https://reports.adviserinfo.sec.gov/crs/crs_313255.pdf), [Form ADV Part 2A](https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/brochure/313255) and [Privacy Policy](https://legal.atomicvest.com/usa.privacy.de3d0277-78f7-4741-9e9f-755f6b4f03ba.pdf). See details about Atomic Brokerage in their [Form CRS](https://files.brokercheck.finra.org/crs_315263.pdf), [General Disclosures](https://legal.atomicvest.com/usa.broker.disclosures.003464f3-f6bd-41c3-bbdf-7050e50b43a2.pdf), [fee schedule](https://legal.atomicvest.com/usa.broker.schedule.7ea28665-88a9-4542-a748-987e90ea46b6.pdf), and FINRA’s [BrokerCheck](https://brokercheck.finra.org/).
You also can open a Cash Account offered by Atomic Brokerage which allows you to earn interest on your cash through a cash sweep program. [View Important Cash Account Disclosures.](https://www.atomicvest.com/legal/disclosures/7d9c31dd-bf97-46ae-9803-1774b97187af)
Neither Atomic Invest nor Atomic Brokerage, nor any of their affiliates is a bank. Investments in securities: Not FDIC Insured, Not Bank Guaranteed, May Lose Value. Investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. Before investing, consider your investment objectives and the fees and expenses charged.
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NerdWallet™ \| 4150 N Drinkwater Blvd, Suite 200, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
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| Readable Markdown | SOME CARD INFO MAY BE OUTDATED
This page includes information about these cards, currently unavailable on NerdWallet. The information has been collected by NerdWallet and has not been provided or reviewed by the card issuer.
More than half of Americans (51%) think consumer prices for goods and services will get worse in 2026, according to a recent [NerdWallet survey](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/studies/2026-consumer-outlook-report).
Still, almost half of Americans (46%) plan on saving money for emergencies this year, the survey says.
We're here to help you find ways to build up that savings.
Budget money to become a saver
1\. Create a budget
"Get a system in place so you dont have to think too much about money," says Durriya Pierce, a certified financial planner at Fruitful Advisory.
One way to manage your money is to follow a budget. Your budget will account for your income and your expenses, allowing you to set priorities for your spending and savings. NerdWallet's [free budget template](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/budget-worksheet) is a great place to start, but a piece of paper works fine, too.
One method is the [50/30/20 budget](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/nerdwallet-budget-calculator): 50% of your after-tax income goes to necessities, 30% to wants and 20% to savings and any debt payments over the minimums. If one of your allocations exceeds these percentages, you can make some adjustments.
If this 50/30/20 breakdown doesn’t work for your financial situation, that’s OK. Another [type of budget](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/how-to-choose-the-right-budget-system) may work better, such as the 60/30/10 budget, or the envelope system, which has you set limits for various expenses.
The best method is the one you’ll stick to, so give this some thought.
» See your expenses and income in one place with the [NerdWallet app](https://nerdwallet.onelink.me/3687710914/dcbu9ifd)
2\. Set savings goals
Set a specific and realistic goal — no goal is too small. Your goals could include adding money to your retirement savings, tackling debt with extra payments or saving up for holiday gifts.
Use a [savings goal calculator](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/savings-goal-calculator) to see how much you’d have to save each month or year to reach your goal.
3\. Track spending
Saving money is tough if you don't know how much of it you've been spending in the first place. Keep track of your monthly cash flow — your income minus your expenditures. Many [budget apps](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/best-budget-apps) can help you track spending.
4\. Keep savings in a high-yield savings account
Put your money in a [high-yield savings account](https://www.nerdwallet.com/banking/learn/high-interest-savings-account). This type of account earns an above-average interest rate on deposits, which can help your bank balance grow faster than with traditional options.
5\. Automate transfers
"Everything should be on automation," says Pierce.
This makes savings consistent and easy, especially when you’re working toward specific goals like paying off debt, building an emergency fund, or saving for a down payment.
Set up automatic transfers either through your bank or direct deposit from your paycheck. Pierce says you'll be surprised at how much money you'll be able to save.
Tackle debt to save on interest
6\. Pay off high-interest debt
The same NerdWallet survey we mentioned earlier found that 30% of Americans plan on paying off one or more of their debts in full in 2026.
If you can speed up your [debt repayment](https://www.nerdwallet.com/personal-loans/learn/pay-off-debt) by making extra payments, or paying more toward the principal balance when you can, you’ll save money on total interest paid.
If you can't make extra payments right now, consider exploring ways to [make money](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/how-to-make-money) on the side that you can put toward your debt.
7\. Lower your student loan payments
If you have student loans, enrolling in a different repayment [plan tied to your income](https://www.nerdwallet.com/student-loans/learn/income-driven-repayment-right) or family size could lower your monthly payments to a manageable level.
Other options include refinancing student loans, enrolling in autopay to trigger an interest rate discount and making extra payments so you can unload the debt faster, which cuts the overall interest you’ll pay.
8\. Refinance your mortgage
If you own a home and are able to get a lower interest rate, refinancing your mortgage could save you several hundred dollars each month. But it’s important to consider other factors, such as the current interest rates, if you’re trying to decide when to refinance a mortgage.
Use our [mortgage refinance calculator](https://www.nerdwallet.com/mortgages/calculators/refinance-calculator) to find out how much you could save. While refinancing comes with some initial costs upfront, such as application and appraisal fees, they may be able to be recouped over time, once you start paying less each month.
Cut the cost of monthly bills
9\. Prep for grocery shopping
A little work before you go to the grocery store can go a long way toward helping you [save money on groceries](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/ways-to-save-money-on-food-groceries). Check your pantry and make a shopping list to avoid impulse buying something you don't need. Learn how to get coupons and join loyalty programs to maximize your savings as you shop.
10\. Lower your TV and internet bills
Review what you’re spending on TV and internet and assess if you’re actually using the features you’re paying for. You could lower your cable bill by as much as \$40 per month by downsizing your cable package. Other options to consider are getting rid of cable, cutting some streaming services or premium subscriptions, or downgrading your internet plan
Many cable and internet companies are willing to adjust pricing to keep you as a customer. [Here's a script](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/use-this-script-to-lower-your-cable-and-internet-bills) that can help guide your phone call to your provider.
11\. Switch to a cheaper cell phone plan
When you’re ready to save, there’s probably a [cheap cell phone plan](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/best-cheap-cell-phone-plans) out there that can meet your needs. As you set out to find the best cell phone plan for your situation, you’ll want to consider network quality and whether a prepaid or postpaid plan is best for you.
12\. Reduce your electric bill
Changes in your energy use can help you [lower your electric bill](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/how-to-save-money-on-your-electric-bill). Consider plugging any insulation leaks in your home, using smart power strips, swapping in more energy-efficient appliances and switching to a smart thermostat.
13\. Cancel unnecessary subscriptions
According to a recent NerdWallet survey, more than half of U.S. adults (55%) plan to significantly decrease the subscriptions they have to save money in 2026.
What about you? You might be paying for subscriptions you no longer use or need. One [NerdWallet writer found \$1,470 a year](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/studies/subscription-audit) in savings after auditing her subscriptions.
Reviewing your credit card or bank statement carefully can help you flag any recurring expenses you can cut. If you sign up for free trials, make a note or set a calendar reminder to cancel before the free period ends.
» Don’t want to comb through your subscriptions manually? [NerdWallet’s app](https://nerdwallet.onelink.me/3687710914/7k2faed2) can track and cancel them for you.
Save money when you shop
14\. Map out major purchases
You can save by timing your purchases of appliances, furniture, cars, electronics and more according to annual sale periods. And if you're an [Amazon Prime](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/amazon-prime-benefits-cost-worth) member, you can check out Prime-exclusive sales in July and October. Amazon also added a Big Spring Sale in 2026.
It’s worth confirming whether a deal is actually a deal by tracking prices over time. You can use a [shopping browser extension](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/browser-extensions-online-shopping) to automate the deal-tracking and couponing process.
For example, the Camelizer extension from Camelcamelcamel makes it easy to view prices over time on Amazon, and the PayPal Honey extension will automatically find and apply coupons while you shop online.
15\. Delay purchases with the 30-day rule
One way to avoid overspending is to give yourself a cooling-off period between the time an item catches your eye and when you actually make the purchase. The 30-day rule gives you more time to decide whether you really want or need the item.
If you’re shopping online, consider putting the item in your shopping cart and then walking away until you’ve had more time to think it over. (In some cases, you might even get a coupon code when the retailer notices you abandoned the cart.)
If 30 days seems like too long to wait, you can try shorter periods like a 24- or 48-hour delay.
16\. Add friction to make online shopping harder
Making it more difficult to shop online might help you stop spending money on things you may not need. Try deleting your saved billing and credit card information, or removing your Apple Pay from your devices so you have to enter details each time.
You could also do what Nerd Amanda Barroso did, and use a device like Brick to block access to shopping apps — and even social media, where influencers often promote things to buy.
Adding these small barriers gave her more time to pause and think if the item in her cart was something she actually needed. You can try the same.
17\. Stock up on household supplies when they’re cheap
It can feel like you’re constantly buying items like dishwashing soap, paper towels or toiletries. Track your inventory of household supplies and consider buying these items in bulk or stocking up when they’re on sale. It may be cheaper than rushing to buy them last-minute when they’re selling at full price.
18\. Shop consignment and thrift stores
Thrift and consignment stores sell previously owned items for less than they would be at a traditional store. At consignment shops, you could also bring in your own stuff to sell.
Whether buying at a consignment or thrift store, compare prices to ensure you’re getting a reasonable discount.
19\. Get creative with gifts
You can save money with affordable gift ideas, like baking cookies, creating art or preparing someone dinner. You can also give someone the gift of your time by offering to take them to a free museum or event.
To plan for costs, make a calendar for all the important gift-giving events for the year. Then create a savings bucket specifically for gifts, and buy the items during major sale periods such as Black Friday.
20\. Find ways to get free items
Programs such as The Freecycle Network and Buy Nothing groups make it easier to get items you need for free. You can exchange items locally for free with the goal of reducing waste and helping the environment.
Check for these opportunities on Nextdoor, Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist, too.
21\. Cash in on your birthday
[Birthday freebies](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/birthday-freebies) and discounts could score you free food or rewards to redeem on purchases from your favorite stores and restaurants. If you've been keeping a wishlist of things you want to buy, this might be the time to use those discounts to save.
Spend less money on transportation
22\. Lower your car costs
[Refinancing your auto loan](https://www.nerdwallet.com/auto-loans/best/refinance-car-loan) could save you considerably over the life of your loan. Shopping around for car insurance can also help you cut costs compared with simply letting your current policy auto-renew.
23\. Reduce gas costs
You can't control gas prices, but you can do several things to save on fuel, such as adhering to your car’s maintenance schedule and stacking errands to avoid unnecessary trips.
Try using a [gas app](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/gas-apps) or buying groceries from a store that offers fuel points to save money. Warehouse stores like Costco and Sam's Club typically offer lower prices on fuel, so fill up before you stock up.
24\. Use car sharing services
If you need to rent a car, consider a rental car alternative, such as car-sharing services Turo or Getaround. Research to see if car-sharing services work out to be cheaper than larger rental companies.
If you don’t drive much, you may also find using car-sharing services are less expensive than owning a car or using taxis or ride-shares.
Find cheaper ways to be entertained
25\. Minimize meals out
One of the easiest expenses to cut is restaurant meals, since eating out tends to be pricier than cooking at home. If you do still want to eat at restaurants, try to reduce the frequency and take advantage restaurant rewards your credit cards may offer.
You can find restaurants with happy hour discounts or split an entree with your dining companion to eat out on a budget. Order water instead of soda or alcoholic beverages and skipping dessert can help stretch your budget as well.
If you have kids, find restaurants where kids eat free to help cut costs — just be sure to call and find out the details first.
26\. Reduce your meal delivery, too
"After housing and childcare, the third-largest expense I often see is food delivery — Uber Eats, DoorDash, and similar services," said Valerie A. Rivera, a certified financial planner in Chicago and founder of FirstGen Wealth.
It's understandable for busy professionals, but it also adds up. Think about what would happen if you redirected \$50 every month that was going to takeout and put it in a savings account, she said.
You could start by cutting back. Instead of ordering meal delivery four times a month, for example, limit yourself to just once.
27\. Get discounts on entertainment
Your local community might offer free concerts, movies and other events. Find [free (or cheap) things to do](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/free-cheap-things-to-do) by checking listings at libraries, churches and websites such as Facebook and Eventbrite.
You can also ask about discounts for older adults, teachers, students, [military members or veterans](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/military-discounts), first responders and more.
28\. BYO snacks
Getting out and having new experiences can be expensive. Bring your own coffee or food to avoid event pricing. This is even more true if you have small kids — packing their favorite snacks and water bottles can save money and prevent meltdowns.
If you have a streaming subscription (and you're planning to keep it) have a movie night with cheap snacks instead of going to the theater.
Where to get help when you can't afford to save
If you’re budgeting and living frugally and still don’t have enough left to save, consider getting help.
Government. Government assistance programs may help you get discounts on utility bills, fund your food budget, offset child care expenses and more. Keep in mind that many of these government programs are available only to families considered to be low income.
211\. Visiting 211.org or calling 2-1-1 will connect you with local experts who can explain and potentially refer you to social service programs that may save you money. This confidential, 24/7 resource may help with expenses related to housing, health care, emergencies, crises and food.
Lenders and service providers. If you can’t pay your bill to a lender or service provider, call the company’s customer service line. Ask for help in the form of lowered or deferred payments, rebates, assistance programs or an alternative payment plan. [Here’s exactly what to say](https://www.nerdwallet.com/finance/learn/utility-bills-script) when you call a utility company.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I save each month? How much should I save each month?
How can I save money fast? How can I save money fast?
Saving money quickly often comes down to consistency — and automating your savings can help take the mental effort out of it. Next, make your money work harder by putting it in a high-yield savings account. Learn more about [how to get a high savings rate](https://www.nerdwallet.com/banking/learn/your-easiest-new-years-resolution-make-your-money-work-harder).
How can I build an emergency fund? How can I build an emergency fund?
Building an [emergency fund](https://www.nerdwallet.com/banking/learn/emergency-fund-why-it-matters) starts with setting a savings goal and working toward it. Financial experts agree that saving three to six months of expenses is ideal, but that can feel overwhelming. The most important step is to start. Try setting a goal to save \$500 and build up from there. You can use your company’s direct deposit feature to automatically move money into your savings each month.
If your bank offers the options to create savings buckets, set aside your emergency fund so you know how much you have and aren’t tempted to pull from it to pay for non-emergency expenses.
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