Money Management

Reddit can be a great place to find helpful hints on a variety of topics. Here are a few choice ways to shop Costco, courtesy of Reddit. 

It happened again: I disappeared down a Reddit rabbit hole and lost a few hours of my life. Today, I was searching for some helpful hints and tricks to save money and get the best shopping experience at many people’s favorite warehouse club store, Costco.

The Costco subreddit, r/Costco, is chock full of people sharing weird food court finds from around the world, shaming fellow customers for bad behavior (seriously, why do people just leave items they’ve decided not to buy in random places around the store!?), and lamenting how much money they’ve spent on ridiculous purchases. But among these posts, there is wisdom to be found. Here’s a few gems from r/Costco to help you stick to your budget and enjoy your next visit to Costco.

1. When it comes to chicken, think big

It stands to reason that if an item you’re buying is priced per piece, rather than by count or weight, you might want to buy the biggest one you can find, to really get your money’s worth. Costco’s famous rotisserie chickens are one of the best deals in the store, as they are priced at just $4.99 (in contrast to my local grocery store, which sells them for $8.99…ouch).

In a thread from a few years ago, Reddit user Rex805 noted that the rotisserie chickens “are not created equally,” and advised shoppers to grab the biggest chickens available. Even if you aren’t hosting dinner for enough people to eat that chicken in one go, rotisserie chicken freezes beautifully (how do you think I get my money’s worth out of the expensive ones at my grocery store?). And there are so many ways to use up that chicken in full.

2. A good way to shop Costco without a membership

There is no Costco in my area; the closest location to me is 60 miles away. That said, my family had a Costco membership when I was a kid, and I have fond memories of strolling the aisles. If I should ever feel like recreating that experience as an adult, I’d be allowed to shop at Costco as a non-member under one condition.

As user wcutiew pointed out, a current member can purchase a Costco Shop Card for a non-member, thereby allowing them to reap some savings on bulk buys. Now I just need to find out who amongst my friends is a Costco member…

3. A nice perk for your tires

If you’ve ever hopped in your car and found your tire pressure light on, you know that finding a place to air up your tires can be a real pain. Thankfully, Costco sells and services tires, and as pointed out by user hawksfan0223, members can take advantage of a free nitrogen pump to re-air their tires. Many gas stations charge for this service, forcing you to dig around your car for quarters.

Other Costco members in the thread noted that the air pump may be turned off when the store is closed, so keep this in mind if you have the urge to fill your tires when your Costco isn’t open for business.

4. Don’t shop hungry

It’s the kiss of death to your checking account balance: grocery shopping while hungry. Take this chance and you might end up coming home with a lot more food than you originally intended. But if you shop at Costco, there’s a way around this. User butteredxtoast noted that since Costco has a food court (and a famous $1.50 hot dog and soda combo), you could kill two metaphorical birds with one stone. Make Costco your meal plan, then do your shopping on a full stomach.

5. Consider adding an appliance

If you really want to take saving money at Costco to its highest level, you must have the appropriate places to store your purchases. User schoolsout4evah recommended that a new member (and new parent) invest in a chest freezer to keep those bulk frozen foods at peak freshness.

6. Another way buying in bulk can help you save

Costco is a good place to buy alcoholic beverages, so if you partake and are looking for a deal, see if your local Costco sells booze (not all do, since liquor laws vary from state to state). While you’re at it, also check to see if you can take advantage of a bulk discount. User Beren_ _ noted that they received 10% off when they bought six bottles of wine. This is another tip that may or may not work for you, however; some users in the thread noted that their Costco stores don’t honor this discount. You have nothing to lose by asking, though — and much to save!

It’s no surprise to me that Costco is so popular, both on Reddit and in real life. If these tips are new to you, try them out and see how much better your Costco trips can be!

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The Ascent does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from The Ascent is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Costco Wholesale. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

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Before your next flight, be sure to review checked baggage fees to avoid surprises. Find out what it’ll cost to bring a checked bag when flying domestically. 

When planning a trip, it’s important to consider transportation costs. You may have luck reducing ticket costs by taking advantage of airfare deals. But don’t forget to review checked bag fees when comparing ticket prices. Unless you’re a light packer, baggage fees can add up, making your trip more expensive. We’ve outlined domestic checked bag fee details for the major U.S. airlines to help you plan your travels without ignoring your personal finances.

1. American Airlines

Most fliers can expect to pay checked bag fees when flying domestically with American Airlines. For domestic flights, including flights to Mexico, you’ll pay $30 each way for your first checked bag. Those with elite status through the AAdvantage loyalty program and those with eligible American Airlines credit cards enjoy free checked bag perks.

2. Delta Air Lines

Delta Air Lines charges $30 each way for most domestic ticket types for your first checked bag. Delta has a baggage fee calculator tool on its website that travelers can use to estimate fees before their flight. Fliers with elite status or a Delta credit card can save money on checked baggage fees. Check out our list of the best Delta credit cards to learn more.

3. JetBlue

When traveling with JetBlue, your fare type will dictate whether you’ll be charged checked bag fees. Travelers flying domestically on a Blue Basic, Blue, or Blue Extra fare ticket can expect to pay $35 each way for their first checked bag. Those flying domestically with a Blue Plus or Mint fare can check their first bag for free. Mosaic members and JetBlue cardholders also get a free checked bag when flying domestically.

4. Southwest Airlines

Many travelers are big fans of Southwest Airlines — and for good reason. The brand is known for going above and beyond to provide a welcoming in-flight experience. Southwest also has a reputation for charging minimal fees, which can be a big win for your checking account. Regardless of the fare purchased, every Southwest flier gets two free checked bags.

5. United Airlines

Unlike other airlines mentioned in this article, United Airlines doesn’t outline standard checked bag fees on its website. Because of this, your best bet is to use the provided bag fee calculator to review costs before your next flight. Fees vary by journey. However, those without elite status can expect to pay around $35 each way for their first checked bag. You’ll get a discount of about $5 by prepaying this fee online before your flight.

How to get free checked bag perks

No one likes paying extra fees if it can be avoided. If you’re hoping to keep your travel costs to a minimum, there are ways to get free checked bag perks. Here are a few options:

Get an airline credit card: Some airline credit cards include free checked bag benefits. Review our list of the best airline credit cards to learn more.Achieve elite status: Being brand loyal has its benefits! By achieving elite status with your favorite airline, you can minimize the extra checked bag fees you pay.Pay attention to the fare you buy: With some airlines, purchasing higher class fares could have added benefits, such as free checked baggage perks. Typically, economy fares don’t include this perk.

Now you know what to expect regarding checked bag fees the next time you fly within the U.S. With careful planning, you can avoid overspending and honor your vacation budget.

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We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
The Ascent does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from The Ascent is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.Natasha Gabrielle has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Delta Air Lines and Southwest Airlines. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

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As high school seniors make plans for summer, they may be looking for ways to make money in their free time. Read on for a few ways to make money this summer. 

As summer approaches, many students are finishing their final year of high school. The summer after graduation can be exciting for high school seniors, full of graduation parties and celebrations. However, some may wish to spend some of their free time working to boost their savings account balances. There are many ways for high school grads to earn extra cash this summer. We’ve outlined a few ideas for inspiration below.

1. Babysit

Graduates with experience caring for kids can offer babysitting services to families in their community. The summer months are a popular time for events, so chances are there are many parents in your area looking for help with childcare. Those interested in this kind of work may consider getting CPR certified and taking a babysitting class to increase their safety knowledge and improve their chances of getting hired.

2. Pet sit

Many families take vacations in the summer, and if they have fur babies, they’ll need help caring for them while they’re out of town. If you love animals, you can get paid to pet sit cats, dogs, and other furry companions. Be ready to explain your experience caring for pets.

3. Dog walker

A dog walking gig is another idea to explore if you’re a fan of dogs. Some dog owners in your community may need assistance caring for their dogs during the workday. With this gig, you can get paid to hang out with adorable four-legged friends, stay active, and spend time outdoors.

4. Get a part-time job

If you’re looking for a traditional part-time job rather than gig work, there are many jobs you can work during the summer months to make money. Consider applying for jobs early in the summer to increase your earning potential. Here are a few job ideas to explore:

Restaurant serverSummer camp counselorBaristaAmusement park workerYouth sports refereeRetail associateLifeguard

5. Yard work

High school grads may also consider doing yard work to earn extra cash. Keeping up with regular yard work tasks like weeding, lawn mowing, mulching, and plant watering can be challenging for busy homeowners. If you enjoy spending time outdoors, this gig can help you reach your savings goals.

6. Sell unwanted items online

If you have extra items lying around the house, you can earn money by selling them. Figure out what excess items you have and ask your family if they have any extra unwanted items you can sell. By doing this, you can clear away clutter and make your home look better. Plus, you can boost your income and stay busy during the summer.

Working a summer job offers benefits

If you’re a recent high school graduate, you may still be deciding whether you want to get a job this summer. It’s understandable if you want to spend time with friends and family. But spending some time working can provide you with several benefits, including the following:

Earn money: You can earn your own money by working a summer job. Making your own money can feel rewarding and help you better understand the value of hard work. Plus, you’ll have your own money to buy what you want.Learn new skills: Even when high school ends, you never stop learning. Developing new skills can make you more marketable as it gives you more work experience and can help you figure out what you like to do and what work isn’t the best fit for your interests.Learn the importance of budgeting and saving: There are also financial benefits to working in the summer. You’ll better understand the value of money and can learn critical budgeting and savings skills.

If you’re a recent high school graduate looking to keep busy this summer, you may want to consider getting a job. In addition to developing new work skills and making friends, you can earn money and learn essential personal finance skills that set you up for success in adulthood.

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We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
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To avoid credit card debt, you should pay your entire credit card balance off regularly. Find out why letting a balance linger is a bad idea. 

While credit cards are a convenient way to pay, you should use them with care. Carrying a balance on your credit card can become an expensive problem. The best strategy to avoid debt is to pay your entire credit card balance off regularly. If you’re only paying the minimum amount due, you’re making a choice that could quickly become costly. Here’s what you need to know.

Understanding how credit cards work

If you’re new to using credit cards, you may wonder how credit cards work. When you swipe your credit card while making a purchase, you’re borrowing money from your credit card issuer. Your credit card issuer will send you a bill for the purchases you made in the previous billing cycle.

Your bill will list your total balance for the latest statement closing date. Many consumers make the mistake of only paying the minimum amount due listed on their credit card bill instead of the total balance. But if you do this, you’ll be charged interest on your unpaid card balance.

The danger of credit card debt

Anyone who uses credit cards needs to learn how credit card debt is charged. Each card has an annual percentage rate (APR), the total cost you’ll pay yearly to borrow money from your credit card issuer. When you carry a balance on your card, your card issuer will charge interest fees based on your APR.

Credit card interest accumulates daily. That means if you continue to carry a balance, interest will continue to accrue — leading to a more expensive problem. If you’re not careful, credit card debt can quickly get out of hand and negatively impact your personal finances.

Do this to avoid credit card debt

If you want to take steps to avoid credit card debt, make sure you pay your balance off monthly. If you’re considering using your credit card to finance a costly purchase, your best bet is to save money first. Stashing cash in a high-yield saving account, charging your credit card, and using your savings to pay the entire balance is the best way to avoid paying interest.

How to get out of credit card debt

You’re not alone if you have credit card debt. The average American has $5,221 in credit card debt. Since credit card interest is calculated daily, paying your debt off sooner is ideal. If you have significant debt, you may want to consider using a balance transfer credit card to avoid additional debt while you pay off your existing balance. Balance transfer credit cards offer an introductory 0% interest rate for a set time.

You can transfer debt from an existing credit card to a balance transfer credit card and enjoy no interest during the promotional period, which could last 18 months or longer. While you’ll likely pay a balance transfer fee of 3% to 5% on the transferred balance total, you can save a lot of money on interest charges using this kind of credit card.

If you have $2,500 in credit card debt and transfer it to a balance transfer credit card with a 5% fee, you’ll pay $125 in fees, making your new total balance $2,625. If the card you choose offers 0% APR for 21 months, you’ll have 21 months to pay off the entire card balance without being charged interest. Bear in mind, you’ll need to pay $125 every month to pay off your balance during the promotional period.

Monitor your spending

Credit cards aren’t all bad news. If you pay your balance off regularly, you can avoid costly debt. If you’re new to using credit cards, you should closely monitor your spending habits to avoid debt. Budgeting apps make it easier to set spending limits and follow a budget. You can stay out of debt by only using your credit cards to pay for things you can afford.

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We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
The Ascent does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from The Ascent is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

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Have a Sam’s Club membership? Read on to see why Sam’s is a great source for eyewear and contacts. 

Many people join Sam’s Club for the savings involved. Shopping there for things like groceries and household items often means racking up a lower credit card tab compared to what you’d be looking at in a supermarket or big-box store.

But one added perk of being a Sam’s Club member is getting to take advantage of its eyewear and contact lenses. You need a membership to purchase glasses and contacts at Sam’s Club, but here are a few good reasons to go that route.

1. You can save big on glasses

The cost of your eyeglasses at Sam’s Club will depend on the frame and type of lens you choose. But you should know that Sam’s Club offers glasses that start at just $59. Compare that to Warby Parker, where adult prescription glasses start at $95, and you’re looking at a real bargain.

2. You can try on glasses virtually

Ordering your glasses from Sam’s Club online? It can be difficult to find the perfect pair when you’re not able to get to an actual store. But Sam’s Club has a virtual try-on tool that integrates with your laptop’s camera to show you what your new glasses might actually look like on your face.

3. You can order contacts three different ways

You can always place an order for contact lenses the next time you’re visiting your local Sam’s Club store. But if that’s not convenient, you can order your contacts online or by phone by calling 1-800-749-LENS (5367).

4. You can choose from many contact brands

Sam’s Club carries a host of brands for contact lens wearers, from Alcon to Dailies to Bausch + Lomb. You can also choose from different contact lens types, from daily disposable lenses to monthly disposables.

Plus, you might save some money on contacts by buying them in bulk. Sam’s Club sells Alcon’s TOTAL30 contacts for $42.38 per box when you buy four boxes. Lens.com sells the same item for $44.89 per box.

5. You can pay by gift card

Eyeglasses and contacts can be expensive. And even if you have vision insurance, you may be forced to pay out of pocket if you’re already exceeded your plan’s allowance (such as if your insurance only pays for one pair of glasses per year but you need a second pair). But if you happen to have a Sam’s Club gift card, you’re in luck, because you can use it to purchase contact lenses in stores, or to buy glasses online or in stores.

6. Your satisfaction is guaranteed

Sam’s Club maintains a 30-day, hassle-free return or exchange policy for the eyewear it sells. If you aren’t satisfied with your purchase, you can get a refund or exchange within 30 days.

7. You can buy kids’ glasses, too

It’s not just adults who can buy their eyeglasses at Sam’s Club. The warehouse club giant sells kids’ glasses, too. Best of all, prices start at just $59. That’s a steal compared to other low-cost options like Warby Parker, where kids’ glasses start at $95.

Whether you’re new to needing glasses or have needed corrective lenses for years, it pays to consider buying your next pair (or batch of contacts) at Sam’s Club. And if you can’t make it over to a store, you can always take advantage of the option to order your eyewear online.

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We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
The Ascent does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from The Ascent is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

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In some cases, proving your income to a mortgage lender could be harder than expected. Read on to learn whether you really need a W-2 job to buy a home. 

Right now certainly isn’t anyone’s definition of a good time to buy a house. According to Redfin data, there were just 1.4 million homes for sale in April 2023, which translates to only a two-month supply. It takes a larger supply of homes (four months or ideally more to equalize the market) to meet buyer demand, so already 2023 isn’t a good time to buy a home. And when you take into consideration higher mortgage rates (as of this writing, the average rate for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage is 6.57%, according to Freddie Mac), it’s just bad news all the way down.

What if despite all these factors, you’re still chomping at the bit to buy a home? Depending on your employment situation, you might face more of an uphill climb to secure a mortgage loan. But do you really need a W-2 job to qualify for a mortgage loan?

Being self-employed means more hoops to jump through

If you’re a small business owner or freelancer, it’s best to go into the home-buying process as informed as you can be. In terms of proving income (which is how a mortgage lender will be able to tell you can afford to repay your mortgage loan), you’ll need to do more legwork.

A regular employee can prove their income via pay stubs and a W-2 to show income for a whole year. If you’re self-employed, you can expect to show income records in the form of personal and business tax returns, balance sheets, and profit and loss statements, according to Freddie Mac.

In addition, you might also need to prove that your current income is stable (or ideally, growing) going forward (because, again, mortgage lenders need to know you’ll be able to repay your loan). You might need to collect letters from clients or a statement from your CPA to attest to this.

Don’t lose hope, however. Thankfully, there are a few steps you can take to make yourself a more appealing borrower as a small business owner or self-employed person. And while switching to a W-2 job may be an option for you, if it’s not a move you would make under other circumstances, it’s probably not the best solution to getting a mortgage loan.

Focus on these areas before applying for a mortgage

Making the following moves can help ensure you don’t need a W-2 job to get approved for a mortgage.

Work on your credit: When buying a home, as in many aspects of personal finance, having a strong credit score can work in your favor. Go through your credit report and look for errors that could be dragging your score down, and commit yourself to making all your debt payments on time and in full, every month — payment history is a major part of your credit score.Pay down debt: Going into the mortgage process with less debt will make you look far better to lenders, as it will lower your debt-to-income ratio. Plus, paying down debt will also improve your credit score.Save money: You generally need a down payment to buy a home (and the more you can put down, the lower your monthly payments will be and the more equity you’ll start with). If you’re self-employed, having more money to put down and more money saved to show a lender can help you get approved. If your income fluctuates, this could be even more crucial.

While buying a home with income from a W-2 job is certainly more straightforward than buying while self-employed, don’t think you’re doomed to rent forever. Get your paperwork in order, make the moves above, and when the time is right for you, go buy a home.

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We’re firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers.
The Ascent does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from The Ascent is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

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