5 Tech Tips to Save You Money in 2024
Like most people, you’re always on the lookout for new ways to save money. Most of the time, this search dredges up the same old advice — tips like how you should stop drinking lattes and bring a homemade lunch to work.
The problem is, you’ve done that, and you’re ready for something new. Well, it’s time to ditch old-fashioned tips for ones made in this century. Here are five tech tricks that can save you money.
1. Cut the cord
Cable is an easy source of savings, as long as you’re willing to say goodbye. You could stand to save more than $100 a month by canceling your TV package.
Decades ago, this trick would have left you with no way to watch your favorite TV shows.
Nowadays, things are a little different. You can still watch the newest Game of Thrones without cable. Most of the biggest channels post episodes online, and streaming services host thousands of movies and tv shows.
2. Call in changes to your phone plan
The cost of having a smartphone has never been more expensive. Depending on your plan and carrier, you could be spending close to a $100 a month for a single line.
But it doesn’t have to be this way. As long as you’re willing to spend some time researching your options, you can find an affordable plan.
To cut down how much you spend on your phone, try:
● Looking into the big carrier’s smaller competitors for cheaper rates
● Opting out of costly unlimited data plans and limiting your data usage
● Removing protection plans and insurance coverage
3. Automate your banking
Gone are the days when you had to go to the bank during specific business hours. Here in 2019, you don’t have to leave the comfort of your own home.
Online banking is more convenient than traditional banking methods because it automates savings, bills, and other payments. Automatic payments withdraw cash from your account to authorized payees according to a strict schedule.
Your bank can make investments and payments without fail — even if you forget about an important bill. If you have a bad habit of paying bills late, this could save a lot in late fees and interest.
4. Go online if you can’t get a loan
Every late payment has a negative effect on your credit score. Chronic delinquency is one of the many reasons why your score may be low.
Although it’s possible to go through life with a low credit score, it makes some things hard — especially in an emergency. Many of the biggest banks require fair or good credit before they’re willing to lend you money.
If you have something much lower, traditional banks may take longer to process your request, or they may grant you less money than you need.
You can wait to apply until you have better credit. But you can’t always predict when you’ll need to get a loan. Car problems, illnesses, and hundreds of other potential issues can come when you’re still rebuilding.
By turning to online lenders of installment loans, you have access to loans with fewer restrictions. Some lenders provide installment loans and lines of credit even if you have subprime credit.
5. Protect your gadgets
One quick way to save money is to slow down your phone’s upgrade cycle by keeping your device in its best shape.
Last year, Apple came out with their most expensive flagship ever at $1,500, and they’re on track to release an even costlier replacement this year.
Unfortunately, these phones are still made from glass and aluminum. One drop is all it takes to shatter a screen and flush that $1,500 down the toilet.
By comparison, the minor expense of a case and screen protector could save you from the astronomical cost of replacing broken gadgets.
Spend the extra cash on shock-absorbing polymers and impact-resistant glass. It’ll be worth it when you drop your phone and don’t have to pick up it up in pieces.
Next to the big things like a car and a home, tech can be some of the most expensive things you buy. But it’s also a source of savings if you know how to use it. Manipulate tech in your favor, and you’ll keep more of your money in your pocket.
