Convenient ways to save on your purchases.
There are convenient and easy ways to save on everyday purchases. By making small adjustments, like doing extra research before making a big purchase, you can work toward saving for the future. And by doing something simple like applying for the right cash rewards credit card, you can earn cash back on purchases that you can put back into your wallet.
Here are three tips for saving on everyday expenses and making the most of your money:
1. Dare to compare:
There are numerous websites that allow you to comparison shop quickly and easily to find the best price before buying. When comparing prices, check out Bizrate.com, Nextag.com and mySimon.com. A little research goes a long way, particularly for more expensive items. For luxury brands at more affordable prices, try discount websites that offer free membership such as Gilt.com and ideeli.com.
2. Buy according to plan:
Save money at the grocery store by creating a weekly meal plan and a corresponding shopping list. Adhering to the list will prevent temptations and impulse buys. Search for coupons on products you use and sign up for your supermarket's loyalty program. If it makes sense for your household, shop at warehouse clubs for additional savings, especially on non-perishable products.
3. Stretch the dollar at the pump:
Keep your vehicle properly maintained so it runs more efficiently, allowing for better gas mileage and savings. In fact, a poorly tuned vehicle may burn 10 to 30 percent more fuel and can lead to expensive problems. For example, make sure that tires are correctly aligned and inflated under the recommended pressure. Also, to get the most of your gas tank, forgo paying for premium gas, as studies show that it is not necessary for regular engines.
If you use a credit card for purchases, consider one that provides cash back rewards. There are a wide range of solutions now available to help people earn cash back when they shop. The BankAmericard Cash RewardsTM credit card is an easy-to-use solution that offers more cash back for the things you buy most: automatically earn 1% cash back on every purchase, 2% cash back on groceries and 3% cash back on gas. Quarterly maximum applies to bonus rewards on grocery and gas purchases*. There are no rotating categories and points don’t expire. Plus, customers are offered additional ways to earn cash back by receiving a 10% customer bonus when they choose to have their cash rewards deposited into their Bank of America® checking or savings account.
Lastly, if you do use a credit card, try to pay the balance in full each month or make more than the minimum payment to help you save money on interest charges.
By putting a few of these tips in action, you will be surprised with how much you can preserve your personal budget.
*For information about the rates, fees, other costs and benefits of this credit card, click here and refer to the disclosures accompanying the online credit card application.
Some accounts and services, and the fees that apply to them, vary from state to state. Please review the information for your state in the Personal Schedule of Fees (at www.bankofamerica.com/feesataglance or at your local Banking Center) and in the Online Banking Service Agreement at www.bankofamerica.com/serviceagreement.
