Let’s face it: budgets are a problem for everyone right now, or so it seems. Whether you’re saving for something special, living paycheck to paycheck, or just trying to gain a measure of control over your finances, a little bit of breathing room can make all the difference.
The usual advice is to start a side hustle on top of your existing business, cut out your daily coffee (come on, now), or create a spreadsheet that shows incomings and outgoings and somehow will magically uncover space for savings in a budget that’s already been cut to ribbons. But what if there were better ways to give your budget the boost it needs?
Revisit forgotten finance
We all have financial decisions we made a while back – insurance policies, old subscriptions, or financing deals – that could be worth reviewing. In some cases you may be entitled to some money back, and while it’s not always a lot, you never know what might be there until you check.
Multiple motorists in the UK have discovered they were sold car financing that they never really needed, and which wasn’t revealed to them at the time. If that sounds like something that could apply to you, it might be time to start your PCP claim with PCP Claimback and recover money that should never have been taken from you. This is one of many examples of shady financial practices that are starting to be brought to light.
Clear out, cash in
When we’re flush with cash, we like to spend it and the evidence of this is visible in most rooms of our house. That second laptop for streaming and gaming? Those outfits that looked good in the store but don’t quite do it for you when you look in the wardrobe? That kitchen gadget that you were sure you would use all the time but you haven’t even read the instructions? Apps for selling “preloved” items are popping up all over now, and they could be a pathway to some extra green you weren’t counting on.
Audit your subscriptions
Sure, this one isn’t likely to lead to a four-figure lump sum, but if you just need that inch of breathing space then it might be time to look at your scheduled payments. You’re probably not going to stop binge-watching, but maybe it’s better to hollow out one streaming app and then cancel it for another and repeat the process. Music is a similar story – could you pause one or more apps, at least temporarily, and then compile a YouTube playlist with your favorites on it? Most podcasts are now pivoting to at least putting some of their content on there too.
The side hustle idea sounds good – it even has a connotation of go-getter spark that makes people feel like they could be the next self-made millionaire. But we’re all so busy that there’s not much side left to hustle on. Looking for alternative ways to bring some money back into your incomings is maybe something to try before you give up even more of your time.
Unexpected Ways to Boost Your Budget (Without the Side Hustle)
Until next time, shine amongst the stars!
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With four kids and a full calendar, I need advice that works. This article gave me that. Thank you for writing with compassion and common sense!
As a retiree on a fixed income, these insights were incredibly practical. I especially liked the part about forgotten finances — I’ve already pulled out some old paperwork. Thanks, Lavanda!
This article hit home. Freelancing can be feast or famine, so every little budget trick helps. Loved the reminder to audit subscriptions — already found two to cancel!
I deeply appreciate advice that isn’t hustle-harder-24/7. You nailed it with this post — thoughtful, empowering, and immediately useful!
This was so validating! As a stay-at-home parent, I need ways to save that don’t involve selling my time. These ideas feel respectful and accessible. Thank you!