10 Simple Ways to Save More Money This Month

Saving money doesn’t have to feel overwhelming or out of reach. With a few practical tweaks, you can start building a solid cushion this month. Whether it’s cutting small expenses, rethinking habits, or finding smart ways to make the most of what you already have, small actions can add up quickly. Let’s explore easy, realistic changes that can help you grow your savings without sacrificing what matters most.

Create a Monthly Budget

Creating a monthly budget is one of the simplest and most effective ways to take control of your finances. Think of it as a roadmap for your money—it shows you exactly where your income is coming from and where it’s going. When done right, a budget not only helps you track expenses but also reveals opportunities to save. Let’s break down how to build one.

List All Income Sources

The first step in building a functional budget is knowing how much money you’re working with. Make a list of every source of income you have each month. This includes your paycheck, side hustles, rental income, or any other consistent earnings. Without an accurate picture of your total income, it’s impossible to plan responsibly.

Ask yourself, “Am I including everything?” Those small bits of extra income, like freelance gigs or bonuses, add up and can make a difference. Write down the after-tax amount you receive (your take-home pay), so you have the real numbers to work with. Knowing your income is like knowing the boundaries of a puzzle; it helps you fit the other pieces into place.

Track Your Expenses

Once you’ve nailed down your income, it’s time to see where your money is going. Tracking spending habits may seem tedious, but it’s the only way to uncover the areas where you’re overspending. You’d be surprised how quickly small, unplanned purchases add up.

Here are a few helpful methods to get started:

• Budgeting Apps: Use tools like Mint, YNAB (You Need a Budget), or EveryDollar to automatically track your expenses. These apps sync with your bank accounts to make monitoring easy.
• Spreadsheets: If you prefer something more customizable, set up a simple spreadsheet with categories like rent, groceries, entertainment, and transportation. Google Sheets or Excel work well for this.
• Pen and Paper: Some people find writing expenses down manually keeps them more mindful. A notebook works just fine.

The key here is consistency. Check in weekly to see patterns in your spending. Are those coffee runs or late-night takeouts sneaking up on you? Identifying these “leaks” is the first step to plugging them.

Set Saving Goals

Now that you’ve mapped out income and expenses, it’s time to focus on savings. A good budget isn’t just about paying bills—it’s about ensuring you’re putting money aside for things that matter. But vague goals like “save more” don’t work. Instead, set specific, measurable targets that keep you motivated.

For example:

• Aim to save $300 this month for an emergency fund.
• Plan to put 15% of your paycheck toward retirement savings.

Breaking goals into small chunks makes them achievable. Treat it like a friendly competition with yourself! Every dollar saved is a step closer to your dream vacation, a down payment for a house, or simply peace of mind.

Visualize your goals to make them real. Are you dreaming of a Caribbean getaway or a new car? Write it down or create a vision board. Saving becomes more satisfying when you tie it to something you value personally.

This system—listing income, tracking expenses, and setting savings goals—gives you control over your finances. Your budget isn’t just numbers on a page; it’s a tool for turning your financial goals into reality. Stay consistent, and those changes will add up fast.

Cut Unnecessary Subscriptions

Think about it—how many times have you signed up for a “free trial” and forgot to cancel? Or perhaps you have ongoing subscriptions for services you barely use. These sneaky charges can drain your bank account month after month without you even realizing it. Cutting unnecessary subscriptions is one of the easiest ways to immediately free up money for savings. Let’s walk through how to spot them and decide what to cut.

Identify Current Subscriptions

The first step is figuring out exactly what you’re subscribed to. This might sound obvious, but many people don’t fully realize how many subscriptions they’re paying for. Start by pulling up your bank statements and credit card bills from the last two months. Look closely for recurring charges.

Here’s the trick: search for anything that happens monthly or annually. Services like streaming platforms, fitness apps, cloud storage, meal kits, and digital memberships often fly under the radar because the fees are small and consistent. If you’re overwhelmed, use tools like Truebill or Rocket Money for automatic subscription tracking—they flag recurring payments so you don’t have to dig through every line item yourself.

Remember, those $9.99, $14.99, or even $1.99 charges add up when you’re juggling multiple subscriptions. This simple exercise could uncover more than you expect.

Evaluate Necessity

Once you’ve listed all your subscriptions, it’s time to ask some hard questions. Do you really need these services, or are they just “nice to have”? Go through your list one by one and evaluate which subscriptions add genuine value to your life.

Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

1. Streaming Services: Are you actively watching all the shows on multiple platforms? If not, stick with your favorite and cancel the rest.
2. Health and Fitness Apps: Are you consistently using that workout app or gym membership? If you’re not logging in weekly, it’s likely a waste.
3. Magazines or News Subscriptions: Are you reading enough articles to justify the cost, or could you find similar content for free?
4. Premium Software or Tools: Are you fully utilizing that “pro” version, or could you downgrade without losing key features?

For each one, ask yourself: If I canceled this today, would it negatively impact my life? If the answer is no, hit that cancel button.

Want to cut down but not break ties completely? Look into sharing accounts with family or friends. Many services allow multiple users, so why not split the cost? You’d be surprised how much you can save by simply sharing.

By cutting subscriptions that don’t serve your lifestyle or goals, you’ll free up money for what truly matters—whether that’s savings, investments, or once-in-a-while splurges that bring you joy. Don’t let unnecessary fees hold your budget hostage!

Automate Savings

Saving money often feels like an uphill battle, but automating the process can make it effortless. By setting up systems to save on autopilot, you eliminate the stress of remembering to put money aside and reduce the temptation to spend it. Automation works quietly in the background and helps ensure you’re consistently building your savings without even lifting a finger.

Set Up Automatic Transfers

Scheduling automatic transfers is one of the simplest ways to guarantee you’re saving every month. Most banks and financial apps offer this feature, making it easy to move money from your checking account to your savings account on a recurring schedule. Here's how to do it:

1. Log Into Your Bank Account: Go online or use your bank’s mobile app.
2. Choose a Transfer Amount: Decide on a realistic amount you can save without impacting your ability to cover essentials.
3. Set the Frequency: Weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly transfers all work—just match the timing to your paycheck cycle.
4. Select the Start Date: Pick a date right after payday so your savings happen first, before you’re tempted to spend.

Many find that treating savings like a “non-negotiable bill” helps keep their finances on track. Need more flexibility? Apps like Chime and Digit allow you to save small amounts daily or when your account balance is high. These tools take the guesswork out of saving, letting you focus on other goals.

Automatic transfers are like setting cruise control for your finances. Once it’s in place, you’ll be surprised at how fast your savings can add up without having to think about it.

Use Round-Up Apps

If saving feels hard because you’re living paycheck to paycheck, round-up apps can be a game-changer. They’re designed to turn your everyday purchases into tiny opportunities to save. Every time you buy something, these apps round up the transaction to the nearest dollar and move the spare change into a savings account.

For example, let’s say you buy coffee for $3.45. A round-up app would round that up to $4.00 and put the remaining $0.55 into savings. It’s such a small amount, you won’t even miss it, but over time, these small contributions build momentum.

Here are some popular round-up apps to consider:

• Acorns: Connects to your debit or credit card and invests your round-ups into a diversified portfolio.
• Qapital: Lets you save round-ups for specific goals like vacations or big purchases.
• Chime: Combines round-ups with other savings features, making it a solid one-stop banking app.

Most round-up apps also offer customizable features, like saving higher amounts or matching your round-ups for faster growth. Think of it like sweeping loose change from under the couch—only it’s happening digitally, all the time.

These tools are perfect for anyone who struggles with manual saving but still wants to make steady progress. They work in the background, ensuring that even on tight months, you’re still tucking away small amounts.

By combining automatic transfers with round-up apps, you create a double layer of savings without overcomplicating your finances. Set it, forget it, and watch your savings grow.

Reduce Dining Out Expenses

Eating out can be a fun treat, but it’s also an easy way to blow through your budget without realizing it. Those quick stops for lunch, spontaneous dinners, and coffee runs add up fast. The good news? Cutting back doesn’t mean giving up your social life or favorite foods. With a little planning and effort, you can slash your dining costs while still enjoying delicious meals.

Plan Meals Ahead

One of the simplest ways to avoid the temptation of eating out is to plan your meals in advance. Think about it—how often do you resort to takeout because you’re hungry and unsure of what to cook? Meal planning solves that problem by giving you a clear game plan for the week.

Here’s how to get started:

• Choose Recipes for the Week: Pick meals based on what you already have at home and any deals at the grocery store. Apps like Mealime or Paprika can help.
• Prep in Batches: Cook multiple servings at once and store them in the fridge or freezer for quick reheating. Soups, casseroles, and stir-fries hold up well.
• Pack Lunches: Say goodbye to overpriced sandwiches or salads. Packing your own lunch can easily save you $10–$15 a day.

Want to save even more time? Rotate through a few go-to recipes each week. Think of it like putting your meal planning on autopilot. Not only will this reduce stress, but it’ll also make grocery shopping faster (and cheaper).

Meal planning is like having a safety net for those moments when convenience feels more appealing than cooking. It’s about setting yourself up for success before hunger strikes.

Cook at Home

Cooking at home doesn’t have to mean complicated recipes or hours in the kitchen. Even simple meals can taste better than what you’d order at a restaurant—and for a fraction of the price. Plus, there’s a certain joy in knowing you made something yourself.

Here are some easy ideas for home cooking:

• One-Pan Dinners: Toss some chicken, veggies, and seasoning onto a baking sheet, roast it all together, and you’ve got a meal.
• Pasta Night: A box of pasta, jar of marinara, and sprinkle of parmesan is both cheap and satisfying.
• DIY Pizza: Use store-bought dough or flatbread, add your favorite toppings, and bake. It’s fun, fast, and way cheaper than delivery.
• Breakfast for Dinner: Eggs, toast, and a side of fruit make a quick, affordable dinner option when you’re short on time.

Don’t forget to stock up on staples like rice, beans, pasta, canned tomatoes, and frozen veggies. These are the building blocks of budget-friendly meals that can stretch for days.

Cooking at home isn’t just about saving money. It’s also an opportunity to customize meals to your tastes and dietary needs. Plus, you’ll appreciate your occasional meals out even more when it feels like a treat instead of a habit.

Take Advantage of Discounts and Coupons

Who doesn’t love saving money on the things they already buy? Discounts and coupons are a simple, no-hassle way to boost your savings each month. It’s all about knowing where to look and how to use them effectively. With a bit of effort, you can keep more cash in your wallet while still enjoying everything you need (and maybe even a few things you want!). Let’s break it down.

Use Coupon Apps

Gone are the days of clipping paper coupons from the Sunday paper. Now, you can access hundreds of discounts right from your phone. Coupon apps make it easy to find deals on groceries, household items, and more—all without spending hours hunting.

Here are a few popular apps to help you save:

• Ibotta: Earn cash back on everyday purchases at grocery stores, pharmacies, and even online shopping.
• Honey: Automatically finds and applies coupon codes at checkout when shopping online.
• Rakuten: Formerly known as Ebates, it gives you cash back for shopping at partnered stores.
• Coupons.com: Offers digital coupons for groceries that you can load directly onto your store loyalty card.
• Fetch Rewards: Snap a photo of your receipt, and the app gives you points you can redeem for gift cards.

These apps work like your personal savings assistant. Some even let you combine deals—for example, applying a digital coupon alongside store sales or earning cashback after purchase. Think of them as free tools that pay you to shop smarter. Why pay full price when discounts are just a tap away?

Using these apps consistently can shave a noticeable amount off your grocery bill, giving you extra breathing room in your budget. The best part? Most of them work in the background, so you save time along with money.

Join Reward Programs

Stores love rewarding loyal customers, and their reward programs are designed to help you save money without much effort. These programs often give you discounts, cashback, or points, just for shopping as usual. Signing up is usually free and takes only a few minutes, yet the benefits can add up quickly.

Here’s why you should consider joining:

1. Exclusive Discounts: Members-only deals, coupons, or bonus offers that aren’t available to regular shoppers.
2. Cashback or Points: Earn rewards for every dollar spent, which you can redeem for future purchases.
3. Birthday Perks: Many programs offer freebies or discounts during your birthday month.

Think about stores you shop at regularly—grocery stores, drugstores, big-box retailers, even gas stations. Here are a few common examples:

• Kroger Plus Card: Save on groceries and earn fuel points for discounts at the pump.
• Target Circle: Get 1% back on purchases and access exclusive store coupons.
• Sephora Beauty Insider: Earn points for free samples or exclusive products.
• Starbucks Rewards: Earn stars with every order, which can be redeemed for free drinks and snacks.

If you’re worried about cluttering your wallet, many of these programs have mobile apps or allow you to input your phone number at checkout. So, no more fumbling around for plastic reward cards!

Reward programs are like a bonus for spending money you’re going to spend anyway. They’re perfect for frequent shoppers, helping you stretch every dollar further. Even small savings, like a free coffee or a grocery discount, can add up over time. Why not take advantage of the freebies and rewards stores are already offering?

By combining coupon apps and reward programs, you open the door to consistent, easy savings every time you shop. It’s like giving yourself a tiny raise without working extra hours—just smarter spending!

Sell Unused Items

One of the easiest ways to boost your savings this month is by selling items you no longer use. It’s a double win—you clear out clutter and make extra cash. Many of us have drawers and closets filled with things collecting dust, and those hidden treasures could be someone else’s must-have. Let’s break down how to get started.

Identify Sellable Items

Start by taking a look around your home. You might be surprised at how much you own that’s not being used. To make it easier, focus on categories of items that often sell quickly and at a good price:

• Electronics: Old phones, tablets, laptops, or gaming consoles. Even outdated devices can sell for parts.
• Clothing: Gently worn or name-brand items, especially shoes, coats, or accessories. Vintage pieces are particularly popular.
• Home Goods: Kitchen gadgets, decor, small furniture, or appliances in good condition.
• Toys & Baby Gear: Strollers, car seats, puzzles, or LEGO sets—parents are always looking for affordable options.
• Books & Media: Rare or collectible books, DVDs, vinyl records, or video games.
• Jewelry & Accessories: Unused watches, necklaces, or handbags can bring in serious cash.

Ask yourself: When’s the last time I used this? If it’s been more than six months, it’s time to let it go. Keep in mind, items in good condition with minimal wear will sell faster and fetch higher prices, so inspect everything before listing.

Choose Selling Platforms

Now that you’ve gathered items to sell, picking the right platform is key. Each platform has its strengths, so your choice depends on what you’re selling and how much effort you’re willing to put in. Here’s a quick guide to popular options:

• eBay: Great for almost anything, especially collectibles, electronics, and name-brand clothing. It’s competitive, but the auction format can help you get top dollar.
• Facebook Marketplace: Ideal for local sales like furniture, appliances, and kids’ gear. It’s free to list, and you avoid shipping hassles.
• Poshmark: A go-to for fashion lovers. Sell clothes, shoes, and accessories, especially trendy or designer brands.
• ThredUp: Perfect for selling bulk clothing without much effort. Send them your items, and they handle the rest, but the payouts are smaller.
• Craigslist: Simple and fast for local sales. Works well for large items like bikes, TVs, or furniture.
• Trade-In Programs: Electronics stores like Apple or Best Buy offer trade-in credits for old gadgets.

Want a low-effort option? Host a yard sale. While you won’t make top dollar, it’s a fast way to clear out items in one day.

When selling online, include clear photos, honest descriptions, and a fair price. Pricing too high might scare off buyers, but pricing too low could leave money on the table. Research similar listings to see what works.

By selling items you no longer need, you not only create space but also turn clutter into cash. It’s a simple way to add some extra money to your savings while helping others find what they need.

Consolidate Debts

Debt can feel like a weight holding you back from achieving your savings goals. High-interest debts, especially credit cards, can eat away at your budget and make saving nearly impossible. If juggling multiple payments is stressing you out, debt consolidation might be the solution. It simplifies your payments and may even reduce what you owe in interest each month.

Explore Debt Consolidation Options

Debt consolidation is all about combining your debts into a single payment, often at a lower interest rate. This can make managing your money easier while saving you cash in the long run. Let’s look at a few common methods:

• Personal Loans: Banks, credit unions, or online lenders offer loans you can use to pay off your debts. These typically come with fixed interest rates and repayment terms, so you’ll know exactly how much you owe each month. This method works well if you have good credit and can secure a lower rate than what your debts currently have.
• Balance Transfer Credit Cards: Look for cards with a 0% introductory APR offer. These allow you to move high-interest credit card balances to a card with no interest for a set period (usually 12–18 months). This can give you a window to pay off your debt faster without extra charges. Be sure to check the transfer fees, though—they usually range from 3–5% of the balance.
• Home Equity Loans or HELOCs: If you own a home, you may qualify to borrow against its equity at a lower interest rate. These loans often have better terms than personal loans or credit cards, but they come with risks—your home is collateral, so missed payments could be costly.
• Debt Management Plans: Nonprofit organizations, like credit counseling agencies, can negotiate lower interest rates with your creditors and bundle your payments into one monthly amount. While they charge a fee for the service, it’s a good option if managing debt on your own feels overwhelming.

Before choosing an approach, compare your options. Look at interest rates, repayment terms, and any fees involved. Remember, the goal is to make your payments more manageable while saving money.

Calculate Potential Savings

Debt consolidation isn’t just about simplifying your finances—it’s also an opportunity to save. Let’s take a simple example to see how much you could potentially save:

Imagine you owe $10,000 in credit card debt with an average interest rate of 20%. Your monthly minimum payment is $200. At this rate, it could take years to pay off the debt, and you’d pay a small fortune in interest.

Now, suppose you consolidate that debt with a personal loan offering a 6% interest rate and a 5-year repayment term. Here’s the math:

• Current Scenario:
  • Interest Rate: 20%
  • Monthly Payment: $200
  • Total Paid Over Time: Around $17,500 ($7,500 in interest)
• With Consolidation Loan:
  • Interest Rate: 6%
  • Monthly Payment: ~$193
  • Total Paid Over Time: Around $11,580 ($1,580 in interest)

By consolidating, you save approximately $6,000 in interest and shave years off your repayment timeline. Plus, a single monthly payment is easier to stick to, reducing stress and helping you pay down debt faster.

Of course, your actual savings depend on your debts, terms, and discipline in repayment. It only works if you avoid racking up new debt while repaying the old. Debt consolidation isn’t a silver bullet, but it’s a powerful tool that can give you room to breathe and focus on building your savings.

Opt for Energy-Saving Measures

Did you know small changes in your energy use could lead to big savings? It’s not just about cutting costs—it’s about creating lasting habits that protect both your wallet and the environment. Whether it’s upgrading appliances or tweaking daily habits, energy-saving measures can add up in a meaningful way.

Switch to Energy-Efficient Appliances

Upgrading to energy-efficient appliances might feel like an upfront cost, but these investments pay off quickly. They use less electricity, which lowers your monthly bills, and many come with rebates or incentives to offset the price. Here are a few smart swaps to consider:

• Refrigerators: Older models can consume up to twice as much energy as newer, energy-efficient ones. Look for the ENERGY STAR® label, which indicates significant savings.
• Washing Machines: A high-efficiency washer can cut water use in half, saving on both energy and water bills. Front-load models tend to be more efficient than top-load ones.
• Dishwashers: Modern dishwashers use less energy and water compared to older versions. Skip pre-rinsing dishes—you’ll waste less water and energy.
• LED Bulbs: These use up to 75% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last years longer.
• Programmable Thermostats: Adjusting the temperature automatically saves energy while keeping your home comfortable.

Think of these changes like planting trees—the benefits grow over time. Spending a little now can save hundreds, or even thousands, down the road. Plus, many utility companies offer discounts or rebates for upgrading, so be sure to check your local programs.

Implement Simple Changes

You don’t need to overhaul your home to see savings. Small, everyday actions can make a noticeable difference on your energy bill. Here are a few easy ways to cut back:

• Turn Off Lights: Make it a habit to switch off lights in empty rooms. Remind the kids to do the same.
• Unplug Unused Electronics: Chargers, TVs, and appliances draw power even when off. Use power strips to turn off multiple devices at once.
• Close Doors and Vents: Only heat or cool the rooms you’re using. Shutting doors and vents keeps energy focused where it’s needed.
• Run Full Loads: Only wash full loads of laundry and dishes. Running half-empty machines wastes water and energy.
• Adjust Thermostats: Lower your thermostat by 7-10°F for eight hours a day in the winter (or raise it in the summer). This small adjustment can reduce annual heating or cooling costs by up to 10%.
• Seal Drafts: Use weather stripping or draft stoppers for doors and windows. Keeping the outside air out helps your HVAC system run more efficiently.

These changes might seem minor, but they add up—kind of like skipping a coffee here and there. Before you know it, you’ll see a lighter utility bill and more cash in your savings.

Energy-saving measures are a win-win. Each step you take not only saves money but also builds habits that reduce your household’s overall energy demands. It’s about creating a system that works for you, rather than against your budget.

Monitor Your Progress

Keeping track of your progress is the key to staying motivated while boosting your savings. When you see how your actions are making a difference, it builds momentum. Think of it like watching a plant grow—small daily efforts lead to bigger, visible results over time. Let’s look at two simple ways to stay on top of your progress and adjust as needed.

Use Savings Apps

Savings apps are like a personal trainer for your finances. They make it simple to track how much you’re saving and help you visualize progress. Many apps also offer insights that show where you’re thriving and where you can improve.

Here are a few standout apps to consider:

• Mint: Great for setting savings goals and tracking spending side by side. It links directly to your accounts for real-time updates.
• Digit: Automatically saves small amounts for you by analyzing your spending patterns. It’s effortless and effective.
• YNAB (You Need a Budget): Perfect for people who want to plan every dollar and monitor savings growth actively.
• Personal Capital: Combines budgeting with net worth tracking so you can see the big picture.

These apps work like a dashboard for your money, giving you a visual representation of your progress. You can even get reminders to help you stay consistent. Watching that savings bar move closer to your goal is a quick win that’ll keep you on track.

If apps aren’t your style, a simple spreadsheet or notebook works just as well. The key is to make your progress visible. When you can see the numbers growing, it’s easier to stay motivated and keep going.

Adjust Goals as Needed

Life happens, and sometimes your savings goals need to shift. Maybe an unexpected expense popped up, or you found new ways to save more than expected. Either way, it’s important to be flexible and realign your goals based on what’s happening.

Here’s how to adjust without losing focus:

1. Check In Weekly: Spend 10-15 minutes reviewing your savings. Look at what’s working and what isn’t.
2. Revisit Your Goals: If you’re consistently exceeding or falling short, tweak the amount you’re setting aside.
3. Celebrate Milestones: Reaching a milestone, no matter how small, is a reason to celebrate. Treat yourself (within reason) to make saving feel rewarding.
4. Account for Changes: Did you start earning more or face a new expense? Adjust your savings plan to reflect your current reality.

Think of adjusting your goals like steering a car. When the road changes, you need to adjust your direction—but you’re still heading toward your destination. Flexibility keeps your savings plan realistic and sustainable, no matter what life throws your way.

By monitoring your progress and making small changes when needed, you’ll stay on track without feeling overwhelmed. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about staying consistent and focused on your “why.” Every step adds up and gets you closer to the life you’re building.

Conclusion

Building your savings doesn’t have to mean big sacrifices or radical changes. The strategies we’ve covered—budgeting, cutting unnecessary costs, automating savings, and more—are all practical, approachable steps you can start today. Each small effort adds momentum and gets you closer to your financial goals.

This month, focus on just one or two tactics that fit your lifestyle. Every action counts, no matter how small it seems. Over time, these consistent choices create lasting habits and measurable progress.

Your financial goals are within reach—take that first step now. Which strategy will you try first?