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- 10 Things You Should Never Pay For (cheapism.com)
Ten Things You Should Never Pay For
Savvy spending is a priority for many Americans, but even the most budget-conscious among us can fall prey to unnecessary expenses. Here are ten things you should never pay for if you’re looking to save money:
1. Credit Reports: You’re legally entitled to a free credit report annually from each of the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion). Equifax is even offering six free reports per year through 2026.
2. Air for Your Tires: Need to top off your tires?
Gas stations in Connecticut and California are required to provide free air to customers. Costco also offers free nitrogen fills at their tire centers, regardless of membership status.
3. Shipping Costs: In today’s online marketplace, free shipping options are abundant. Look for deals, utilize subscription services offering free shipping, or consider buying locally to avoid this unnecessary expense.
4. Moving Supplies: Don’t waste money on boxes you’ll just discard. Check online marketplaces for free or discounted moving supplies, or take advantage of programs like U-Haul’s free box exchange.
5. Lottery Tickets: The odds of winning the lottery are astronomically low. Instead of chasing a dream, save your money for something more tangible.
6. Bottled Water: Tap water is often just as safe and healthy as bottled water, and significantly cheaper. Invest in a reusable water bottle and save yourself the expense.
7. Unnecessary Supplements: Many supplements offer little to no proven health benefits. Consult with a healthcare professional before spending money on supplements, and focus on a healthy diet instead.
8. Credit Card Annual Fees: A plethora of excellent rewards credit cards don’t charge annual fees. While fee-based cards may offer perks, ensure the rewards outweigh the cost.
9. A Brand-New Cell Phone: Carriers frequently offer free or heavily discounted phones to attract new customers. Consider switching providers to take advantage of these deals.
10. Bank Fees: Credit unions often offer lower fees and better rates compared to traditional banks. Explore your options to avoid unnecessary charges.
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