Category

Money Management

Expert Says: If You Don’t Have a Health Savings Account, You’re Bleeding Money

By Money Management No Comments
[[{“value”:”Image source: Getty Images
Open enrollment is underway for 2025. That special time of year when Americans can choose a new health insurance plan runs from Nov. 1, 2024 to Jan. 15, 2025. It means now is the perfect time to choose a health insurance plan that’s compatible with a health savings account (HSA) — a smart financial move.Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. HSAs are versatile, tax-advantaged savings and investment accounts that help you accomplish three big money goals at once:Save money for healthcareGet a tax deduction for your contributionsPotentially benefit from long-term tax-free investment growthMany people think you can only access a HSA through an employer-sponsored plan, but that’s not the case. We talked with Alexa Irish, co-CEO of Catch, a company that helps self-employed people get access to health insurance, about why health savings accounts are a must-have item for your 2025 healthcare budget.Here are the biggest reasons to get a health savings account for 2025.1. Health savings accounts give you a 2025 tax deductionOne of the great advantages of HSAs is that the money you put in is tax-deductible. For 2025, the IRS rules say individuals can contribute $4,300 to an HSA (if you have self-only health insurance coverage), and families can contribute $8,550.If you’re in the 22% tax bracket, $8,550 of HSA contributions would reduce your 2025 federal income taxes by about $1,880. And if you’re nearing retirement, keep in mind that you can put even more money into your HSA. “If you’re over 55, you can contribute an additional $1,000 to your HSA as a catch-up contribution,” said Catch’s Irish.2. HSAs let you invest for the futureIf you want to use your HSA money to pay for healthcare in 2025, that’s totally fine. You can just put in enough to cover your medical bills and copays, and nothing more.But, as Irish explains, if you don’t spend much on healthcare, you can use your HSA as an extra investment account. “The real power of an HSA is that the investment growth on whatever you save is tax-free,” Irish said. “You can always spend your HSA funds completely tax-free, as long as you’re using the funds for qualified medical expenses.”Want to get more proactive about saving and investing for the future? Click here to learn more about our best brokerages. Some of these top-rated investment firms also offer health savings accounts.3. HSA dollars are not “use it or lose it”Sometimes people get HSAs confused with flexible spending accounts (FSAs). But here’s another excellent advantage of HSAs: health savings account dollars are yours to keep.With a typical FSA, you have to use your money by year-end or lose it. HSAs are different — your entire HSA balance can roll over from year to year. Even if you change jobs, your HSA stays with you, just like your 401(k) or IRA account.”You can spend out of your HSA for eligible health expenses each year, but whatever you don’t spend rolls over,” Irish said. “Unlike an FSA, it never expires, so any remaining funds continue to work for you by growing on a tax-deferred basis.”4. HSA dollars are easy to use on a wide range of healthcare expensesHealth savings accounts are not only for paying hospital bills or copays for doctor’s office visits. The IRS allows you to use HSA dollars for a wide range of deductible medical expenses, including:AcupunctureDental careEyeglassesHearing aidsPrescription drugsTherapyWeight loss programs if prescribed by a physicianAlong with the wide range of items you can pay for with HSA dollars, it’s easy to use an HSA to make payments. “Some people think HSAs are complicated, but it’s super easy,” Alexa Irish said. “You’ll often get a dedicated debit card, and some retailers offer special portals where all the offerings are HSA-eligible, so you never have to wonder.”5. Your HSA can be an “extra” retirement accountHere’s another thing people might not know about HSAs: You can use the HSA like a bonus retirement account. Before you reach 65, you have to pay extra tax on any withdrawals that aren’t for medical expenses. But after 65, you can withdraw the funds for any purpose — although you’ll have to pay income tax on non-healthcare withdrawals, similar to a traditional IRA.”After age 65, you can also use your HSA funds for non-health expenses without a tax penalty, you’ll just need to pay normal income tax on the HSA funds when you use them,” Alexa Irish said. “That’s why some people consider HSAs the ‘sleeper’ retirement account.”Choose an HSA-eligible insurance planTo use an HSA, you must choose an HSA-eligible health insurance plan, also known as a high-deductible health plan (HDHP). If you don’t do this during open enrollment, it takes a qualifying life event (like losing a job or having a baby) for many employees to change health insurance later in the year.HSA-eligible health insurance plans for 2025 have a minimum deductible of $1,650 for self-only and $3,300 for family coverage. The maximum annual out-of-pocket expenses for self-only coverage is $8,300 and $16,600 for families.Bottom lineHealth savings accounts give you a flexible, portable, owned-by-you way to save money for healthcare and get great tax breaks now and in the future. You can even use your HSA as a backup “sleeper” retirement account. Don’t miss out on the tax savings and other benefits. Get a health savings account for 2025!Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. 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.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

Woman shopping in aisle at the drugstore.

Image source: Getty Images

Open enrollment is underway for 2025. That special time of year when Americans can choose a new health insurance plan runs from Nov. 1, 2024 to Jan. 15, 2025. It means now is the perfect time to choose a health insurance plan that’s compatible with a health savings account (HSA) — a smart financial move.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

HSAs are versatile, tax-advantaged savings and investment accounts that help you accomplish three big money goals at once:

  1. Save money for healthcare
  2. Get a tax deduction for your contributions
  3. Potentially benefit from long-term tax-free investment growth

Many people think you can only access a HSA through an employer-sponsored plan, but that’s not the case. We talked with Alexa Irish, co-CEO of Catch, a company that helps self-employed people get access to health insurance, about why health savings accounts are a must-have item for your 2025 healthcare budget.

Here are the biggest reasons to get a health savings account for 2025.

1. Health savings accounts give you a 2025 tax deduction

One of the great advantages of HSAs is that the money you put in is tax-deductible. For 2025, the IRS rules say individuals can contribute $4,300 to an HSA (if you have self-only health insurance coverage), and families can contribute $8,550.

If you’re in the 22% tax bracket, $8,550 of HSA contributions would reduce your 2025 federal income taxes by about $1,880. And if you’re nearing retirement, keep in mind that you can put even more money into your HSA. “If you’re over 55, you can contribute an additional $1,000 to your HSA as a catch-up contribution,” said Catch’s Irish.

2. HSAs let you invest for the future

If you want to use your HSA money to pay for healthcare in 2025, that’s totally fine. You can just put in enough to cover your medical bills and copays, and nothing more.

But, as Irish explains, if you don’t spend much on healthcare, you can use your HSA as an extra investment account. “The real power of an HSA is that the investment growth on whatever you save is tax-free,” Irish said. “You can always spend your HSA funds completely tax-free, as long as you’re using the funds for qualified medical expenses.”

Want to get more proactive about saving and investing for the future? Click here to learn more about our best brokerages. Some of these top-rated investment firms also offer health savings accounts.

3. HSA dollars are not “use it or lose it”

Sometimes people get HSAs confused with flexible spending accounts (FSAs). But here’s another excellent advantage of HSAs: health savings account dollars are yours to keep.

With a typical FSA, you have to use your money by year-end or lose it. HSAs are different — your entire HSA balance can roll over from year to year. Even if you change jobs, your HSA stays with you, just like your 401(k) or IRA account.

“You can spend out of your HSA for eligible health expenses each year, but whatever you don’t spend rolls over,” Irish said. “Unlike an FSA, it never expires, so any remaining funds continue to work for you by growing on a tax-deferred basis.”

4. HSA dollars are easy to use on a wide range of healthcare expenses

Health savings accounts are not only for paying hospital bills or copays for doctor’s office visits. The IRS allows you to use HSA dollars for a wide range of deductible medical expenses, including:

  • Acupuncture
  • Dental care
  • Eyeglasses
  • Hearing aids
  • Prescription drugs
  • Therapy
  • Weight loss programs if prescribed by a physician

Along with the wide range of items you can pay for with HSA dollars, it’s easy to use an HSA to make payments. “Some people think HSAs are complicated, but it’s super easy,” Alexa Irish said. “You’ll often get a dedicated debit card, and some retailers offer special portals where all the offerings are HSA-eligible, so you never have to wonder.”

5. Your HSA can be an “extra” retirement account

Here’s another thing people might not know about HSAs: You can use the HSA like a bonus retirement account. Before you reach 65, you have to pay extra tax on any withdrawals that aren’t for medical expenses. But after 65, you can withdraw the funds for any purpose — although you’ll have to pay income tax on non-healthcare withdrawals, similar to a traditional IRA.

“After age 65, you can also use your HSA funds for non-health expenses without a tax penalty, you’ll just need to pay normal income tax on the HSA funds when you use them,” Alexa Irish said. “That’s why some people consider HSAs the ‘sleeper’ retirement account.”

Choose an HSA-eligible insurance plan

To use an HSA, you must choose an HSA-eligible health insurance plan, also known as a high-deductible health plan (HDHP). If you don’t do this during open enrollment, it takes a qualifying life event (like losing a job or having a baby) for many employees to change health insurance later in the year.

HSA-eligible health insurance plans for 2025 have a minimum deductible of $1,650 for self-only and $3,300 for family coverage. The maximum annual out-of-pocket expenses for self-only coverage is $8,300 and $16,600 for families.

Bottom line

Health savings accounts give you a flexible, portable, owned-by-you way to save money for healthcare and get great tax breaks now and in the future. You can even use your HSA as a backup “sleeper” retirement account. Don’t miss out on the tax savings and other benefits. Get a health savings account for 2025!

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

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

“}]] Read More 

Have $5,000 in Your Checking Account? Here Are 3 Better Places to Keep Your Cash

By Money Management No Comments
[[{“value”:”Image source: The Motley Fool
A checking account is the best place to keep the cash you need for bills and everyday spending. The recommendations vary on how much to keep in a checking account, but a good guideline is to keep at least one month’s expenses stashed away.Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. But suppose you consistently have $5,000 parked in your checking account and that’s more than enough to pay your bills for one or two months. Let’s explore some better places to keep that extra money.Three better options for extra cashChecking accounts may be convenient, but here’s the problem: The average interest-bearing checking account pays just 0.08% APY. That means if you deposited $5,000 in a checking account for a year and never touched the balance, you’d have just $5,004 after 12 months. And that’s assuming your checking account pays interest. (Many do not.)These three options will help grow your money faster.1. High-yield savings accountThe top high-yield savings accounts are paying APYs in the 4% range. It’s possible that those rates will drop some if the Federal Reserve continues to move forward with rate cuts in the coming months. Regardless of where rates are headed, you’ll almost certainly earn more in a high-yield savings account than you’d get from a checking account.Need a new home for your savings? Check out our list of the best high-yield savings accounts here.2. 1-year CDIf you have a healthy emergency fund but you’re sitting on savings you might need to tap in the next couple of years, consider locking in a 1-year CD. The best 1-year CD rates are also in the 4% range. Unlike with a high-yield savings account, you’re locking in an APY until the CD matures.The drawback is that the money is also less liquid since you’ll usually pay an early withdrawal penalty if you need your money before the maturity date — which is why a CD often isn’t a good place for an emergency fund.3. Roth IRAIf you don’t need your money for several years, setting up a Roth IRA and investing the money in the stock market is a smart way to go. You fund the account with money that’s been taxed, but if you follow all the rules, your withdrawals will be 100% tax free in retirement. The best Roth IRA brokers offer $0 commissions, no account fees, and low minimum opening deposits.If you don’t want to choose your own stocks, consider an S&P 500 ETF. You’ll automatically invest in 500 of the largest, most profitable publicly traded companies in the U.S. Though returns can vary significantly from year to year, the S&P 500’s average annual returns are about 10% over the long term.Note that Roth IRAs have income limits and contribution limits. If putting your extra funds in a Roth IRA isn’t an option, consider other types of tax-advantaged retirement accounts or a regular brokerage account.Another option for your extra cashIf you have extra money in your checking account and you’re carrying credit card debt, consider putting the excess toward paying off the balance. Any interest you’re earning from a checking account will pale in comparison to the amount you’re forking over in credit card interest each month. To speed up the process of getting out of debt, consider a top balance transfer card so that you can maximize your interest savings.Keeping a decent amount of cash in your checking account provides a safety cushion and makes it easy to access your money when you need it. But excess money in a checking account isn’t earning much (if anything), so you’ll want to find a way to put that money to work for you.Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. 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.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

A pot of change with a plant growing out of it

Image source: The Motley Fool

A checking account is the best place to keep the cash you need for bills and everyday spending. The recommendations vary on how much to keep in a checking account, but a good guideline is to keep at least one month’s expenses stashed away.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

But suppose you consistently have $5,000 parked in your checking account and that’s more than enough to pay your bills for one or two months. Let’s explore some better places to keep that extra money.

Three better options for extra cash

Checking accounts may be convenient, but here’s the problem: The average interest-bearing checking account pays just 0.08% APY. That means if you deposited $5,000 in a checking account for a year and never touched the balance, you’d have just $5,004 after 12 months. And that’s assuming your checking account pays interest. (Many do not.)

These three options will help grow your money faster.

1. High-yield savings account

The top high-yield savings accounts are paying APYs in the 4% range. It’s possible that those rates will drop some if the Federal Reserve continues to move forward with rate cuts in the coming months. Regardless of where rates are headed, you’ll almost certainly earn more in a high-yield savings account than you’d get from a checking account.

Need a new home for your savings? Check out our list of the best high-yield savings accounts here.

2. 1-year CD

If you have a healthy emergency fund but you’re sitting on savings you might need to tap in the next couple of years, consider locking in a 1-year CD. The best 1-year CD rates are also in the 4% range. Unlike with a high-yield savings account, you’re locking in an APY until the CD matures.

The drawback is that the money is also less liquid since you’ll usually pay an early withdrawal penalty if you need your money before the maturity date — which is why a CD often isn’t a good place for an emergency fund.

3. Roth IRA

If you don’t need your money for several years, setting up a Roth IRA and investing the money in the stock market is a smart way to go. You fund the account with money that’s been taxed, but if you follow all the rules, your withdrawals will be 100% tax free in retirement. The best Roth IRA brokers offer $0 commissions, no account fees, and low minimum opening deposits.

If you don’t want to choose your own stocks, consider an S&P 500 ETF. You’ll automatically invest in 500 of the largest, most profitable publicly traded companies in the U.S. Though returns can vary significantly from year to year, the S&P 500’s average annual returns are about 10% over the long term.

Note that Roth IRAs have income limits and contribution limits. If putting your extra funds in a Roth IRA isn’t an option, consider other types of tax-advantaged retirement accounts or a regular brokerage account.

Another option for your extra cash

If you have extra money in your checking account and you’re carrying credit card debt, consider putting the excess toward paying off the balance. Any interest you’re earning from a checking account will pale in comparison to the amount you’re forking over in credit card interest each month. To speed up the process of getting out of debt, consider a top balance transfer card so that you can maximize your interest savings.

Keeping a decent amount of cash in your checking account provides a safety cushion and makes it easy to access your money when you need it. But excess money in a checking account isn’t earning much (if anything), so you’ll want to find a way to put that money to work for you.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

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

“}]] Read More 

4 Things I Wish I Knew Before I Got My First Auto Loan

By Money Management No Comments
[[{“value”:”Image source: Upsplash/The Motley Fool
Buying a new car (or a new-to-you car) is exciting, but it can also be easy to fall into traps — especially if you’ve never taken out a car loan before. I bought my first car in my 20s and financed it through a local credit union. While the process went pretty smoothly, there were definitely a few things I didn’t know that may have made it easier.Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. So, if you’re getting your first auto loan, here are a few factors to keep in mind.1. Your credit score directly impacts your interest rateAs I mentioned above, I took out my first car loan in my early 20s. I knew that my credit score impacted whether I’d be approved and how much I’d be approved for, but I didn’t realize just how much my credit score would impact my interest rate — and thus how much I’d pay over the life of the loan. Whether you buy a new or used car can also impact your credit score.Here’s the average interest rate you can expect to pay based on your credit score:FICO® ScoreAverage Interest Rate for New Car LoansAverage Interest Rate for Used Car Loans781 to 8505.25%7.31%661 to 7806.87%9.36%601 to 6609.83%13.92%501 to 60013.18%18.86%Data source: Experian State of Automotive Finance Marketing Report Another thing to keep in mind is that your credit score can also impact your car insurance rates.The best way to lower car insurance costs is to shop around. Check out our list of the best car insurance companies.2. You might need gap coverageI totaled my first car before paying off the loan. (I don’t recommend driving too fast down hairpin turns.) Luckily, I had paid enough off the loan so that the insurance payout covered the rest of the loan. But if you buy a new car, that might not be the case.New cars can lose up to 20% of their value in the first year, so you can easily owe more than the car is worth. For example, let’s say you pay $30,000 for a new car with a 7% interest rate and a 60-month term. You even put 20% down because you’re trying to be responsible. After one year, you’re in a car accident and total your car.Assuming you made regular payments and didn’t pay anything extra, you’ll still owe $24,341 on the car — but if it loses 20% in value, insurance might only pay you $24,000 or even less.In this case, it’s only a few hundred dollars’ worth of difference. But if you buy a car that decreases in value faster, get a higher loan interest rate, or don’t put 20% down, you could owe thousands of dollars on a car you can’t drive.If you’re buying a new car, consider whether you need gap insurance to avoid making payments on a car you no longer have.3. Dealerships will adjust your loan term to meet your budget (and that’s not always a good thing!)If you walk into a car dealership, there’s a good chance they’re going to ask you how much you can afford to pay a month, not how much you actually want to spend. That’s because they can adjust the term (length) of the loan to match your budget, which means paying thousands extra in interest over the life of the loan.So, if you can afford to pay $500 a month, they aren’t just going to show you cars that you can pay off at $500 per month in 36 or 48 months. They might also show you a car double that value and then increase the term to 72 or 84 months. You pay the same per month — but much more over the length of the loan.4. Paying even a little extra makes a huge difference in total loan costsCompound interest is great when your money is growing in a high-yield savings account. But compound interest works against you in debt. When I got my first car loan, I paid what I owed each month, but I didn’t realize paying even $50 extra would have saved me thousands in interest — and shaved months off of my loan.For a $20,000 car loan with 7% interest and a 60-month term, paying just $100 extra a month will allow you to pay off the loan 13 months early and save you $893.74 in interest payments.Taking out your first auto loan is a learning experience, and being informed can save you money and stress. Keep in mind that your car loan is only part of your car expenses; the price of insurance can also drive up your costs, so it’s worth shopping around for lower rates.Save more on car expenses by exploring the cheapest car insurance companies.Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026
This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!
Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes. 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.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

A small SUV against a green background

Image source: Upsplash/The Motley Fool

Buying a new car (or a new-to-you car) is exciting, but it can also be easy to fall into traps — especially if you’ve never taken out a car loan before. I bought my first car in my 20s and financed it through a local credit union. While the process went pretty smoothly, there were definitely a few things I didn’t know that may have made it easier.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

So, if you’re getting your first auto loan, here are a few factors to keep in mind.

1. Your credit score directly impacts your interest rate

As I mentioned above, I took out my first car loan in my early 20s. I knew that my credit score impacted whether I’d be approved and how much I’d be approved for, but I didn’t realize just how much my credit score would impact my interest rate — and thus how much I’d pay over the life of the loan. Whether you buy a new or used car can also impact your credit score.

Here’s the average interest rate you can expect to pay based on your credit score:

FICO® Score Average Interest Rate for New Car Loans Average Interest Rate for Used Car Loans
781 to 850 5.25% 7.31%
661 to 780 6.87% 9.36%
601 to 660 9.83% 13.92%
501 to 600 13.18% 18.86%
Data source: Experian State of Automotive Finance Marketing Report

Another thing to keep in mind is that your credit score can also impact your car insurance rates.

The best way to lower car insurance costs is to shop around. Check out our list of the best car insurance companies.

2. You might need gap coverage

I totaled my first car before paying off the loan. (I don’t recommend driving too fast down hairpin turns.) Luckily, I had paid enough off the loan so that the insurance payout covered the rest of the loan. But if you buy a new car, that might not be the case.

New cars can lose up to 20% of their value in the first year, so you can easily owe more than the car is worth. For example, let’s say you pay $30,000 for a new car with a 7% interest rate and a 60-month term. You even put 20% down because you’re trying to be responsible. After one year, you’re in a car accident and total your car.

Assuming you made regular payments and didn’t pay anything extra, you’ll still owe $24,341 on the car — but if it loses 20% in value, insurance might only pay you $24,000 or even less.

In this case, it’s only a few hundred dollars’ worth of difference. But if you buy a car that decreases in value faster, get a higher loan interest rate, or don’t put 20% down, you could owe thousands of dollars on a car you can’t drive.

If you’re buying a new car, consider whether you need gap insurance to avoid making payments on a car you no longer have.

3. Dealerships will adjust your loan term to meet your budget (and that’s not always a good thing!)

If you walk into a car dealership, there’s a good chance they’re going to ask you how much you can afford to pay a month, not how much you actually want to spend. That’s because they can adjust the term (length) of the loan to match your budget, which means paying thousands extra in interest over the life of the loan.

So, if you can afford to pay $500 a month, they aren’t just going to show you cars that you can pay off at $500 per month in 36 or 48 months. They might also show you a car double that value and then increase the term to 72 or 84 months. You pay the same per month — but much more over the length of the loan.

4. Paying even a little extra makes a huge difference in total loan costs

Compound interest is great when your money is growing in a high-yield savings account. But compound interest works against you in debt. When I got my first car loan, I paid what I owed each month, but I didn’t realize paying even $50 extra would have saved me thousands in interest — and shaved months off of my loan.

For a $20,000 car loan with 7% interest and a 60-month term, paying just $100 extra a month will allow you to pay off the loan 13 months early and save you $893.74 in interest payments.

Taking out your first auto loan is a learning experience, and being informed can save you money and stress. Keep in mind that your car loan is only part of your car expenses; the price of insurance can also drive up your costs, so it’s worth shopping around for lower rates.

Save more on car expenses by exploring the cheapest car insurance companies.

Alert: highest cash back card we’ve seen now has 0% intro APR into 2026

This credit card is not just good – it’s so exceptional that our experts use it personally. It features a 0% intro APR for 15 months, a cash back rate of up to 5%, and all somehow for no annual fee!

Click here to read our full review for free and apply in just 2 minutes.

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.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

“}]] Read More 

5 Mistakes to Avoid While Christmas Shopping at Costco This Year

By Money Management No Comments
[[{“value”:”Image source: The Motley Fool
There are all kinds of deals and discounts to be had on holiday goodies at Costco. There are also many people on the Costco marketing and merchandising teams who specialize in convincing you to buy them all.Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)
We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco. Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.
Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!It’s all too easy to make simple mistakes during your Costco holiday shopping that could eat into your savings. Here are some to watch out for — and avoid.1. Shopping online instead of in personLook, I totally get it. Costco is busy at the best of times, and when you add on the pressure of holiday shopping…well, I can see why you might want to Instacart or Costco.com your way around that mess.This is likely a mistake. For one thing, everything online has some type of markup and/or delivery fee. Even basics, like Kirkland Signature paper towels, will cost a couple bucks more when you buy online vs. in person at the store.Some items are also store-only, which could include big-name brands with deep discounts. Plus, those end-of-season clearance and sale items will only be found at your local warehouse.Pro tip: The best time to avoid the Costco crowds is during the middle of the week, particularly in the hour before closing.2. Using the wrong payment method at checkoutIf you’re going to drop a small fortune at Costco on gifts and holiday hosting essentials, you should really make sure you’re maximizing your credit card rewards so you don’t miss out on potentially hundreds in cash back.Costco’s rule about using only Visa credit cards in store can make it harder to maximize your rewards, but there are still some excellent options. Click here to explore our top rewards cards for Costco purchases.If you’re really going big this year, you should definitely consider opening a new rewards credit card that offers a welcome bonus you’re capable of earning. A good welcome bonus can be worth at least $200, if not more.3. Skipping the gift card rackGift cards are my go-to gift for the picky folks on my list, especially those of the teenage (and, somehow worse, preteen) persuasion. And the place I’m most likely to get them is off the Costco gift card rack.Costco has an excellent selection of gift cards, all at a discount, making it a gift for you and your recipient alike. Discount amounts vary, but I’ve seen restaurant gift cards for 30% off the face value.Even if you’re not giving them as gifts this year, they can be worth picking up if you spot a retailer or restaurant you like to frequent yourself! (It can stay between you and Santa.)4. Forgetting to comparison shopIt’s tempting to assume Costco has the best deal, because it’s so often true. But “often” isn’t “always,” and it’s never good to skip the important comparison shopping step before making a major purchase.This is especially true at this time of year, when nearly every retailer has constantly evolving sales and deals. The price for a popular item could change day by day, or even by the hour in some places, so you never know when you’ll find a better deal elsewhere.Also, remember that Costco doesn’t price match other retailers, but some retailers will price match Costco. While you could be giving up the Costco return policy by shopping elsewhere, a deep discount or great deal could be worthwhile.5. Getting carried away (aka, not sticking to the list)I know all too well the allure of the “deal.” When everything is the cheapest you can find it, it’s hard to leave anything behind.But letting yourself get carried away at Costco today will mean big regrets when the credit card bills hit next month. Instead, create a holiday shopping budget and stick to it.Make a list, check it twice, and don’t naughtily buy a bunch of stuff that’s not on the list just because it’s on sale.Don’t have a budget — holiday or otherwise? Try one of our top budgeting apps for an easy way to get a handle on your finances.Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)
We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco. Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.
Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!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.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.Brittney Myers has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Costco Wholesale and Visa. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

Christmas tree against a blue background

Image source: The Motley Fool

There are all kinds of deals and discounts to be had on holiday goodies at Costco. There are also many people on the Costco marketing and merchandising teams who specialize in convincing you to buy them all.

Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)

We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco.

Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.

Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!

It’s all too easy to make simple mistakes during your Costco holiday shopping that could eat into your savings. Here are some to watch out for — and avoid.

1. Shopping online instead of in person

Look, I totally get it. Costco is busy at the best of times, and when you add on the pressure of holiday shopping…well, I can see why you might want to Instacart or Costco.com your way around that mess.

This is likely a mistake. For one thing, everything online has some type of markup and/or delivery fee. Even basics, like Kirkland Signature paper towels, will cost a couple bucks more when you buy online vs. in person at the store.

Some items are also store-only, which could include big-name brands with deep discounts. Plus, those end-of-season clearance and sale items will only be found at your local warehouse.

Pro tip: The best time to avoid the Costco crowds is during the middle of the week, particularly in the hour before closing.

2. Using the wrong payment method at checkout

If you’re going to drop a small fortune at Costco on gifts and holiday hosting essentials, you should really make sure you’re maximizing your credit card rewards so you don’t miss out on potentially hundreds in cash back.

Costco’s rule about using only Visa credit cards in store can make it harder to maximize your rewards, but there are still some excellent options. Click here to explore our top rewards cards for Costco purchases.

If you’re really going big this year, you should definitely consider opening a new rewards credit card that offers a welcome bonus you’re capable of earning. A good welcome bonus can be worth at least $200, if not more.

3. Skipping the gift card rack

Gift cards are my go-to gift for the picky folks on my list, especially those of the teenage (and, somehow worse, preteen) persuasion. And the place I’m most likely to get them is off the Costco gift card rack.

Costco has an excellent selection of gift cards, all at a discount, making it a gift for you and your recipient alike. Discount amounts vary, but I’ve seen restaurant gift cards for 30% off the face value.

Even if you’re not giving them as gifts this year, they can be worth picking up if you spot a retailer or restaurant you like to frequent yourself! (It can stay between you and Santa.)

4. Forgetting to comparison shop

It’s tempting to assume Costco has the best deal, because it’s so often true. But “often” isn’t “always,” and it’s never good to skip the important comparison shopping step before making a major purchase.

This is especially true at this time of year, when nearly every retailer has constantly evolving sales and deals. The price for a popular item could change day by day, or even by the hour in some places, so you never know when you’ll find a better deal elsewhere.

Also, remember that Costco doesn’t price match other retailers, but some retailers will price match Costco. While you could be giving up the Costco return policy by shopping elsewhere, a deep discount or great deal could be worthwhile.

5. Getting carried away (aka, not sticking to the list)

I know all too well the allure of the “deal.” When everything is the cheapest you can find it, it’s hard to leave anything behind.

But letting yourself get carried away at Costco today will mean big regrets when the credit card bills hit next month. Instead, create a holiday shopping budget and stick to it.

Make a list, check it twice, and don’t naughtily buy a bunch of stuff that’s not on the list just because it’s on sale.

Don’t have a budget — holiday or otherwise? Try one of our top budgeting apps for an easy way to get a handle on your finances.

Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)

We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco.

Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.

Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!

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.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.Brittney Myers has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Costco Wholesale and Visa. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

“}]] Read More 

Watch Out: This Simple Costco Mistake Could Get Your Membership Cancelled

By Money Management No Comments
[[{“value”:”Image source: Upsplash/The Motley Fool
I get it — you like Costco so much, you want to share your membership card with all of your family and friends. Or maybe you just want to help out that nice person who assured you they’re a member, they just forgot their card. You’d be their hero if you’d swipe your membership card so they can pump gas, just this once.Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)
We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco. Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.
Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!Don’t. This seemingly innocent gesture could get your Costco membership cancelled — with no refund.Costco rules strictly forbid membership sharingIf you’ve ever wondered why your Costco membership card has your photo on it, this is why. It’s against the Costco membership agreement to let anyone else use your card.Yes, this applies even to family and spouses. Your spouse cannot use your Costco membership card to make purchases, even at the pump. In fact, they can’t even use your card to get into the store unless you’re with them.When Costco catches you — because it’s highly likely you will get caught, particularly in store — you might just get a warning. But you may also have your membership cancelled entirely.Pro tip: Go through a lot of Costco gas? Check out this cobranded rewards credit card for bonus cash back at the pump.Only the member can pay at checkoutEach card-carrying member can bring up to two guests per trip, but the guests can’t make purchases. Whether you’re buying gas or items in store, only the card-carrying member is allowed to pay at checkout.This is a little harder to police at the pump, where you generally only need to swipe your membership card. The system may notice if the name on the membership card and the name on the payment method don’t match.Either way, definitely don’t try to share cards in the store. Costco employees swipe cards and verify photos during checkout, even in the self-checkout lanes.Each paid membership can have two cardsIf you really want to share your Costco membership with a partner or other household member, you can get them their own membership card. Each paid Costco membership comes with two individual membership cards.You can assign the second card to anyone in your household (provided they live with you). This can be done online or in a store, but you’ll need to stop at the membership desk either way to get a photo taken and card printed.Make sure the other cardmember also understands the rules of membership, including not to share their card with anyone else. If your household member messes up, it could also jeopardize your account.Next step: If you’re ready to share Costco accounts, you may also want to share credit card rewards. Click here to explore our top rewards credit cards for Costco and see how much you can earn.Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)
We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco. Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.
Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!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.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.Brittney Myers has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Costco Wholesale. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

A brown reusable shopping bag against a green background

Image source: Upsplash/The Motley Fool

I get it — you like Costco so much, you want to share your membership card with all of your family and friends. Or maybe you just want to help out that nice person who assured you they’re a member, they just forgot their card. You’d be their hero if you’d swipe your membership card so they can pump gas, just this once.

Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)

We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco.

Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.

Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!

Don’t. This seemingly innocent gesture could get your Costco membership cancelled — with no refund.

Costco rules strictly forbid membership sharing

If you’ve ever wondered why your Costco membership card has your photo on it, this is why. It’s against the Costco membership agreement to let anyone else use your card.

Yes, this applies even to family and spouses. Your spouse cannot use your Costco membership card to make purchases, even at the pump. In fact, they can’t even use your card to get into the store unless you’re with them.

When Costco catches you — because it’s highly likely you will get caught, particularly in store — you might just get a warning. But you may also have your membership cancelled entirely.

Pro tip: Go through a lot of Costco gas? Check out this cobranded rewards credit card for bonus cash back at the pump.

Only the member can pay at checkout

Each card-carrying member can bring up to two guests per trip, but the guests can’t make purchases. Whether you’re buying gas or items in store, only the card-carrying member is allowed to pay at checkout.

This is a little harder to police at the pump, where you generally only need to swipe your membership card. The system may notice if the name on the membership card and the name on the payment method don’t match.

Either way, definitely don’t try to share cards in the store. Costco employees swipe cards and verify photos during checkout, even in the self-checkout lanes.

Each paid membership can have two cards

If you really want to share your Costco membership with a partner or other household member, you can get them their own membership card. Each paid Costco membership comes with two individual membership cards.

You can assign the second card to anyone in your household (provided they live with you). This can be done online or in a store, but you’ll need to stop at the membership desk either way to get a photo taken and card printed.

Make sure the other cardmember also understands the rules of membership, including not to share their card with anyone else. If your household member messes up, it could also jeopardize your account.

Next step: If you’re ready to share Costco accounts, you may also want to share credit card rewards. Click here to explore our top rewards credit cards for Costco and see how much you can earn.

Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)

We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco.

Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.

Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!

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.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.Brittney Myers has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Costco Wholesale. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

“}]] Read More 

Today Only: Save Up to $25 With These Online Costco Gift Card Deals

By Money Management No Comments
[[{“value”:”Image source: Getty Images
Like many retailers, Costco promotes holiday shopping deals ahead of and on Black Friday. These holiday sales can help you finish your gift buying without depleting all the funds in your checking account. Costco will have some online-only sales happening only on Thanksgiving.Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)
We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco. Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.
Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!If you plan to buy some gift cards this holiday season, don’t ignore additional discounts that are available when purchasing select gift cards at Costco this Turkey Day. I’ll explain how you can save up to $25 shopping these online Costco gift card deals, today only.Save $20: Five $15 Subway gift cards for $54.99Subway is a popular sandwich chain with stores nationwide. Costco sells a five-pack of $15 Subway gift cards for $59.99. But you can score an additional $5 discount when buying this gift card pack at Costco.com on Nov. 28, 2024.This gift card deal will cost $54.99 only on Thanksgiving. This makes for an easy way to save $20 on a great stocking stuffer. Take advantage of this online-only deal if you plan to buy gift cards for the holidays.Save $25: Four $25 Papa John’s gift cards for $74.99Here’s another limited-time gift card deal you won’t want to miss — especially if you have a pizza lover on your list. Costco sells a four-pack of $25 Papa John’s gift cards for $79.99. But you can save an extra $5 if you buy this gift card pack on Costco.com on Nov. 28, 2024.On Thanksgiving, this gift card pack will cost $74.99. So you can save $25 while giving someone you care about $100 of pizza.Act fast to get these dealsRemember, both of these deals are only available today — Nov. 28, 2024. They can only be purchased at Costco.com. After that time, they will be available in-club and online at Costco’s standard price. If you’re stocking up on gift cards, consider these offers.Want to save more on your next Costco haul? The right credit card can help. You can earn cash back when you swipe your card at checkout. Click here to review our list of top rewards credit cards for Costco shoppers.Buying discounted gift cards is a win for your walletThese limited-time gift card deals are available only on Thanksgiving. But you can buy discounted gift cards to popular retailers at Costco anytime. Costco sells cheap gift cards for restaurants, entertainment venues, travel brands, and more.If you use gift cards regularly or like to give them away as holiday and birthday gifts, check to see if you can save more money by purchasing them at your local club or Costco.com. Even saving $10 to $20 when purchasing gift cards is a major win for your wallet.Here’s a small sampling of other gift card deals that you can score at Costco:Two $50 Uber gift cards for $79.99$50 Cinemark Theatres gift card for $39.99$100 Instacart gift card for $79.99Four $25 TGI Friday’s gift cards for $79.99In addition to buying groceries, household goods, clothes, and electronics at Costco, you can save by purchasing gift card deals like the ones highlighted above. You can maximize your Costco membership by taking advantage of as many perks and discounts as you can.Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)
We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco. Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.
Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!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.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money 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 has positions in and recommends Costco Wholesale and Uber Technologies. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

Female gives friend wrapped gift in an office setting.

Image source: Getty Images

Like many retailers, Costco promotes holiday shopping deals ahead of and on Black Friday. These holiday sales can help you finish your gift buying without depleting all the funds in your checking account. Costco will have some online-only sales happening only on Thanksgiving.

Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)

We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco.

Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.

Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!

If you plan to buy some gift cards this holiday season, don’t ignore additional discounts that are available when purchasing select gift cards at Costco this Turkey Day. I’ll explain how you can save up to $25 shopping these online Costco gift card deals, today only.

Save $20: Five $15 Subway gift cards for $54.99

Subway is a popular sandwich chain with stores nationwide. Costco sells a five-pack of $15 Subway gift cards for $59.99. But you can score an additional $5 discount when buying this gift card pack at Costco.com on Nov. 28, 2024.

This gift card deal will cost $54.99 only on Thanksgiving. This makes for an easy way to save $20 on a great stocking stuffer. Take advantage of this online-only deal if you plan to buy gift cards for the holidays.

Save $25: Four $25 Papa John’s gift cards for $74.99

Here’s another limited-time gift card deal you won’t want to miss — especially if you have a pizza lover on your list. Costco sells a four-pack of $25 Papa John’s gift cards for $79.99. But you can save an extra $5 if you buy this gift card pack on Costco.com on Nov. 28, 2024.

On Thanksgiving, this gift card pack will cost $74.99. So you can save $25 while giving someone you care about $100 of pizza.

Act fast to get these deals

Remember, both of these deals are only available today — Nov. 28, 2024. They can only be purchased at Costco.com. After that time, they will be available in-club and online at Costco’s standard price. If you’re stocking up on gift cards, consider these offers.

Want to save more on your next Costco haul? The right credit card can help. You can earn cash back when you swipe your card at checkout. Click here to review our list of top rewards credit cards for Costco shoppers.

Buying discounted gift cards is a win for your wallet

These limited-time gift card deals are available only on Thanksgiving. But you can buy discounted gift cards to popular retailers at Costco anytime. Costco sells cheap gift cards for restaurants, entertainment venues, travel brands, and more.

If you use gift cards regularly or like to give them away as holiday and birthday gifts, check to see if you can save more money by purchasing them at your local club or Costco.com. Even saving $10 to $20 when purchasing gift cards is a major win for your wallet.

Here’s a small sampling of other gift card deals that you can score at Costco:

  • Two $50 Uber gift cards for $79.99
  • $50 Cinemark Theatres gift card for $39.99
  • $100 Instacart gift card for $79.99
  • Four $25 TGI Friday’s gift cards for $79.99

In addition to buying groceries, household goods, clothes, and electronics at Costco, you can save by purchasing gift card deals like the ones highlighted above. You can maximize your Costco membership by taking advantage of as many perks and discounts as you can.

Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)

We love versatile credit cards that offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco! This card is a standout among America’s favorite credit cards because it offers perhaps the easiest $200 cash bonus you could ever earn and an unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases, even when you shop at Costco.

Add on the competitive 0% interest period and it’s no wonder we awarded this card Best No Annual Fee Credit Card.

Click here to read our full review for free and apply before the $200 welcome bonus offer ends!

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.
Motley Fool Money does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from Motley Fool Money 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 has positions in and recommends Costco Wholesale and Uber Technologies. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

“}]] Read More