A late fee. A surprise bill. Groceries that often cost twice what they used to. It adds up fast. And before you know it, your paycheck’s gone.
But it doesn’t have to stay that way.
Here are 9 smart moves to help you stretch your money, lower costs, and even find extra cash—without getting a second job.
Start with these:
1. Get out of more than $20,000 of debt
If you have $20,000 or more in credit card, student, or medical debt, stop before you make another payment. With interest rates rising as high as 36%, your payments might not even be making a dent — while banks keep lining their pockets.
But there’s a better way.
A program called Accredited Debt Relief is helping thousands of people fight back—by working directly with creditors to reduce what they owe and roll it into one simple monthly payment.
You can signup for a free debt assessment to see if you qualify. It’s quick, and your credit doesn’t have to be perfect.
💡 Tip: Once you’re in, download their app to track real progress on your debt.
2. Cancel your car insurance. Keep the coverage.
Most Americans still let their car insurance auto-renew, even when rates jump. In 2024 alone, premiums climbed by an average of 16.5%¹ — and many didn’t even realize it.
But a growing number are flipping the script, canceling early and switching online in minutes after using a smart “rate check-up” tool most drivers don’t even know exists.
This smart insurance tool from tech company Insurify reveals real-time rates from dozens of top insurers — helping drivers cancel early, switch fast, and save big. It’s backed by new pricing data and is already unlocking up to $1,025 in annual savings² for some users.
How to check:
- Enter your ZIP code to see if it works near you.
- Answer a few short questions about your vehicle, current provider, etc.
- Instantly get matched with insurers competing for your business—and compare real quotes side by side.
If there’s a better deal, you’ll find it in just a few minutes.
3. Got spare time? Turn that into extra money
Brands spend millions trying to understand what people really think—and this site lets you get a piece of that.
A company called Survey Junkie pays users to answer simple questions about their habits, preferences, and product experiences. It’s easy to use, free to join, and perfect for spare moments—whether you’re scrolling on the couch, waiting in line, or killing time at night.
How to check:
- Join the site here — it’s free and takes less than 2 minutes
- Answer a few short questions to build your profile
- Get matched with surveys and start earning right away
You can cash out with as little as $5.00, and get paid through PayPal or gift cards. Some users even make it a daily habit.
💡 Tip: Start with shorter surveys to build momentum and unlock higher-paying ones.
4. Got a lot of apps? Why not get paid for them
Most people try out new apps or games without thinking twice—usually for free. But a growing app called Freecash flips the script by paying you to explore other new apps, complete simple tasks, or play games on your own schedule.
You can pick the offers that interest you, and get paid through PayPal or gift cards. Some users even rack up earnings daily, just by playing casually.
💡 Tip: Payouts can vary, so check today’s top offers and start with the highest-value ones.
5. Call your internet or phone company to ask for a discount
This might sound awkward, but it works more often than you’d think. Call your internet, phone, or cable provider and just ask if there are any promotions or discounts available for your account.
Plenty of people have had success doing this with companies like SiriusXM, Xfinity (Comcast), Verizon, AT&T, and Dish Network. Mention you’re looking to lower your bill or considering canceling—and be polite but firm. Companies often have loyalty rates or hidden deals they don’t advertise unless you ask.
Pro tip: Call during business hours and ask for the customer retention department. That’s where the magic usually happens.
6. Use your birthday month to score freebies (and a free meal or two)
You’d be surprised how many places offer free stuff just for being born. Restaurants, coffee shops, beauty brands, and even retail stores often dish out birthday deals if you’re signed up for their rewards program.
Think: a free drink from Starbucks, a burger from Red Robin, or a $5 coupon from stores like CVS or Ulta. Create a throwaway email just for rewards programs and sign up a week or two before your birthday—then enjoy the perks all month long.
🔥 Quick money wins to try today:
💳 See if you qualify to lower your credit card debt »
🚗 See what other drivers are paying for the same coverage »
💬 Get paid for your opinions—on your schedule »
🎮 Try new apps and games—and get rewarded for it »
7. Making “minimum” payments? This debt relief program could cut your interest
If you’re stuck making just the minimums, outrageously high interest charges could be draining your finances — with no real progress on your debt.
A private program is helping Americans with over $20,000 in debt consolidate what they owe — with some rolling up to $200,000 into one manageable payment. It works for credit card, medical, and even personal loan debt.
Over 700,000 Americans have already enrolled, and your credit doesn’t need to be perfect.
See if you’re eligible (free, takes just minutes)
💡 Update: As of April 2025, this program is still available.
8. Turn household clutter into instant cash
Most of us have things around the house we don’t use anymore—clothes, electronics, small appliances, even furniture. Instead of letting it collect dust, turn it into cash.
Snap some decent photos, write a quick description, and list on platforms like Facebook Marketplace, OfferUp, or eBay. A little effort can go a long way.
9. Turn a skill into income (even if you’re not a pro)
Whether you’re good with words, design, tech, or admin work, there’s someone out there who needs your skills.
Sites like Upwork and Fiverr help freelancers connect with clients looking for one-off or ongoing help. You choose your rates and workload, which makes it a flexible option for extra income.
⭐ Reader favorites: quick money wins worth trying now
If you only try one thing today, make it one of these. They’re simple, smart, and could help you save or earn real money—starting now:
- See if you qualify to lower your credit card debt
- See what other drivers are paying for the same coverage »
- Get paid for your opinions—on your schedule »
- Try new apps and games—and get rewarded for it »
Final thoughts
You don’t have to do everything on this list—but choosing just one or two could be the momentum shift you need.
The right tools are out there. Whether you’re trying to save, earn, or just breathe a little easier, taking one small step today can help tomorrow feel a lot less overwhelming.
Stay scrappy. Stay smart. You’ve got this.
Disclaimer:
¹ The 16.5% average rate increase in 2024 is from ValuePenguin’s “State of Auto Insurance in 2025” report.
² Based on savings claims from Insurify, where shoppers may save up to $1,025 annually by comparing auto insurance quotes. Individual results will vary.