Check out these simple tips for saving today!

1. Open a long-term savings account

The funny thing about life events is that they are spontaneous. It’s impossible to know what opportunities will become available or what uncomfortable situations may happen in the next year. The best way to save up money for a “Life Happens” moment is to open a savings account. Whether you put $100 or $1,000 into it, you will thank yourself for saving your money while you have it. This savings account shouldn’t be something that you look at everyday. Try browsing different banks that offer high-yield savings accounts. You could potentially earn more interest than your current provider!

Check out savings accounts with high-yield interest rates here.

2. Bring your lunch to work

I know it’s a pain, but it’s the best way to save money fast. Squeezing in time to make your own lunch for work will save you so much money in the long run. Buying your lunch everyday for $10 per day for a month could cost you $200 or more (taxes, side of guacamole, etc.) . What could you do with that extra money?

3. Ask yourself “Do You Need It?”

I am an avid online shopper and I often have to check myself to make sure that I’m 1) getting the best deal and 2) not spending money on things that I don’t need. You don’t need 5 pairs of black sandals, one pair will do just fine. Remember to ask yourself this while shopping before you get too carried away.

4. Check your credit cards cash back features

This tip should be used at all times. Credit card companies find new ways every month to get you to use your card, but sometimes their cash back rates go up for certain stores. It’s worth looking into, and it’s worth using your credit card on major purchases for that extra cash back to spend on other things.

5. Create a budget tracker

Budget tracking doesn’t have to be difficult or stressful. A simple Google Spreadsheet will help you see exactly how much you’re spending a month and how much money is left over for fun things. If you have a particularly good month, it’s also a great way to calculate how much money you can set aside for when life events happen.