Got a spare hour? Instead of falling into a doom scrolling or bingeing another episode, why not knock out some quick money moves that can actually put cash back in your pocket? These aren’t boring, complicated finance chores. They’re fast, simple tasks that could help you save, protect, or even uncover money.
Most of them take less time than it takes to microwave popcorn (okay, a few might take a little longer, but still under an hour!). And best of all? You can do many of them from your phone or laptop, right from your couch. Whether it’s scoring a better phone plan, checking your credit, or finding money you didn’t know you had, these mini-missions are totally doable.
Here are ten easy money wins you can tackle in no time:
- Check Your Credit Report: Errors on your credit report are surprisingly common, and they can seriously mess with your score. A quick review can help you catch wrong account info, unfamiliar charges, or even identity theft. You can request free reports from all three major bureaus at AnnualCreditReport.com.
- Freeze Your Credit: Freezing your credit is like putting a lock on your front door. It keeps thieves from opening new accounts in your name. It’s free, fast, and reversible if you ever need to unfreeze. Just contact all three bureaus individually and boom, your info’s locked down tight.
- Get An IRS Identity Protection PIN: Worried about tax scams? An Identity Protection PIN is a unique six-digit code from the IRS that adds an extra layer of security to your tax return. It only takes a few minutes to set up online, and you’ll get a new PIN every year to help keep cyber crooks at bay.
- Call Your Cellphone Provider And Ask For A Better Deal: Your mobile bill might be quietly draining your wallet, but it doesn’t have to. A quick call could land you a cheaper plan or hidden discount. Or check out if you’re paying for too much data and can downgrade to a cheaper plan to save a few bucks. Don’t forget to ask about loyalty perks, too!
- Download Grocery Store Apps: If you’re not using your supermarket’s app, you might be missing out on personalized deals, digital coupons, and loyalty rewards. Some apps even let you scan items as you shop to see real-time savings. Bonus tip: apps like Ibotta and Flipp can net you cashback or match flyers across stores.
- Search For Unclaimed Money: There could be forgotten money waiting for you. From old bank accounts to stray insurance payments, there’s a sea of cash just waiting to be claimed. Head to MissingMoney.com and search any states you’ve lived or worked in. It’s free, easy, and could uncover some serious funds.
- Apply For A 0-Percent Balance Transfer Credit Card: Still carrying credit card debt? A balance transfer card with 0-percent interest can save you real cash, with some offers of up to 21 months interest-free available. The application usually takes less than 20 minutes, and if your credit score’s solid (around 670 or higher), you’re typically in the running to qualify.
- Compare Car Insurance Rates: Car insurance prices have been creeping up, but loyalty doesn’t always pay. Comparison sites make it quick to check rates across multiple insurers. You could score the same (or better) coverage for way less with just a few minutes of searching.
- Create A Separate Email For Store Deals: Retailer promos are great, but they can clutter your inbox and tempt you into spending. Set up a second email just for shopping alerts and discount codes. That way, you keep the deals (and the distractions) in their own tidy corner.
- Sign Up For A My Social Security Account: Whether retirement is around the corner or a few decades away, it’s smart to know where you stand. A My Social Security account gives you real-time access to your benefits and payment estimates.
Source: AARP