Money Management

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Want to prioritize making time for fun but don’t have much extra money? Believe it or not, it’s possible to have fun in your free time without spending all the money in your checking account.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!An easy way to save is by purchasing discounted gift cards. You can use them to pay for exciting outings with your favorite people. Costco members can buy cheap gift cards for popular entertainment brands. Here are several Costco gift card deals that can save you up to $25 on entertainment expenses.1. Save $20: Get two $50 Topgolf gift cards for $79.99Topgolf is an entertainment complex with interactive golf courses and food and drinks. Whether you’re going with your partner, friends, or family, it’s a great way to have fun. You can purchase a pack of two $50 Topgolf gift cards for $79.99 at Costco. With this gift card deal, you’ll save $20 and have $100 to spend on gameplay, lessons, food, drink, and merchandise.2. Save $20: Buy two $50 Dave & Buster’s gift cards for $79.99Dave & Buster’s is another popular entertainment venue. You can play games, listen to music, eat, and drink here. Costco sells Dave & Buster’s gift cards at a discount to its members.You can purchase a pack of two $50 Dave & Buster’s gift cards for $79.99, a savings of $20. These gift cards can be used to pay for games, merchandise, food, and drinks. This is an especially great deal for a family with kids or teens.You can boost your Costco savings by using a credit card that offers rewards. Click here for a list of the top credit cards for Costco shoppers.3. Save $10: Score a $50 Cinemark Theatres gift card for $39.99A movie outing is another way to have fun on your next day off from work. You can see the latest film without feeling like you overspent. The key is to get a cheap gift card before you head to the theater. Costco sells a $50 Cinemark Theatres gift card for $39.99. This deal makes it easy to save $10. The funds can be spent on movie tickets, food, drinks, and merchandise.4. Save $25: Purchase two $50 Main Event gift cards for $74.99Main Event is an entertainment center that features video games, bowling, laser tag, mini golf, and more. You can also have a meal there and sip on drinks. If you have a Main Event location near your home, consider taking advantage of this gift card deal from Costco. The warehouse club sells two $50 gift cards for $74.99. That’s a savings of $25 on entertainment costs. Main Event gift cards are accepted at all locations in the United States.Get more value from your Costco membershipA Costco membership can be a worthwhile investment. You can shop discounts when buying groceries, household goods, cleaning supplies, clothing, electronics, and more. You can also save money when purchasing gift cards from popular retailers.You can maximize your Costco membership by taking advantage of the retailer’s perks and discounts. If you want to reduce your entertainment costs without sacrificing having fun in your free time, these gift card deals from Costco can help. You don’t have to spend a fortune on fun.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. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.”}]] [[{“value”:”

Want to prioritize making time for fun but don’t have much extra money? Believe it or not, it’s possible to have fun in your free time without spending all the money in your checking account.

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!

An easy way to save is by purchasing discounted gift cards. You can use them to pay for exciting outings with your favorite people. Costco members can buy cheap gift cards for popular entertainment brands. Here are several Costco gift card deals that can save you up to $25 on entertainment expenses.

1. Save $20: Get two $50 Topgolf gift cards for $79.99

Topgolf is an entertainment complex with interactive golf courses and food and drinks. Whether you’re going with your partner, friends, or family, it’s a great way to have fun. You can purchase a pack of two $50 Topgolf gift cards for $79.99 at Costco. With this gift card deal, you’ll save $20 and have $100 to spend on gameplay, lessons, food, drink, and merchandise.

2. Save $20: Buy two $50 Dave & Buster’s gift cards for $79.99

Dave & Buster’s is another popular entertainment venue. You can play games, listen to music, eat, and drink here. Costco sells Dave & Buster’s gift cards at a discount to its members.

You can purchase a pack of two $50 Dave & Buster’s gift cards for $79.99, a savings of $20. These gift cards can be used to pay for games, merchandise, food, and drinks. This is an especially great deal for a family with kids or teens.

You can boost your Costco savings by using a credit card that offers rewards. Click here for a list of the top credit cards for Costco shoppers.

3. Save $10: Score a $50 Cinemark Theatres gift card for $39.99

A movie outing is another way to have fun on your next day off from work. You can see the latest film without feeling like you overspent. The key is to get a cheap gift card before you head to the theater. Costco sells a $50 Cinemark Theatres gift card for $39.99. This deal makes it easy to save $10. The funds can be spent on movie tickets, food, drinks, and merchandise.

4. Save $25: Purchase two $50 Main Event gift cards for $74.99

Main Event is an entertainment center that features video games, bowling, laser tag, mini golf, and more. You can also have a meal there and sip on drinks. If you have a Main Event location near your home, consider taking advantage of this gift card deal from Costco. The warehouse club sells two $50 gift cards for $74.99. That’s a savings of $25 on entertainment costs. Main Event gift cards are accepted at all locations in the United States.

Get more value from your Costco membership

A Costco membership can be a worthwhile investment. You can shop discounts when buying groceries, household goods, cleaning supplies, clothing, electronics, and more. You can also save money when purchasing gift cards from popular retailers.

You can maximize your Costco membership by taking advantage of the retailer’s perks and discounts. If you want to reduce your entertainment costs without sacrificing having fun in your free time, these gift card deals from Costco can help. You don’t have to spend a fortune on fun.

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. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

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[[{“value”:”Image source: The Motley Fool/Unsplash
I prefer a balanced approach when I make a budget, cutting back where I can but with room to spend a little more on the things I enjoy most. This philosophy is something my family applies to everything we purchase, including our household essentials.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. When we like a brand-name product better, we go with that. When the store brand is better, we’re happy to stick with the cheaper option.I keep my Sam’s Club membership in large part because Member’s Mark items often provide the best of both worlds. Not only do we save money, but we also simply like the products as much as — or even more than — the brand names we’re replacing. Here are a few examples.1. Member’s Mark aluminum foilWe became dedicated Member’s Mark aluminum foil fans during our Summer of Smoke and Ribs. We especially love the Member’s Mark Heavy Duty Foodservice Foil, which is extra wide and easily enrobed our ribs without tearing or leaking.The rolls are long enough (500 feet!) that we didn’t need to buy a new roll every weekend. And, happily, the price is just right. We save $0.03 a square foot over buying the brand name at Sam’s Club, and almost $0.10 per square foot over the grocery store:ItemSourcePrice per Sq. Ft.Member’s Mark Heavy Duty Foil 18″Sam’s Club$0.040Reynolds Wrap Heavy Duty 18″ Aluminum FoilSam’s Club$0.067Reynolds Wrap Heavy Duty 18″ Aluminum FoilPrice Chopper$0.135Data sources: Sam’s Club, Price ChopperPro tip: To credit card issuers, Sam’s Club is a warehouse club, not a grocery store. Make sure you’re using a cash back rewards card with the right bonus categories to maximize your Sam’s Club purchases.2. Member’s Mark facial tissuesWe were a very dedicated Kleenex house for many years before we joined Sam’s Club and started exploring the Member’s Mark alternatives. Now, I can confidently say we unanimously prefer the Member’s Mark tissues over any other brand we’ve tried.Our tip-top pick is the Member’s Mark Ultra Premium 3-ply because they just feel the best on your face/nose. For everyday use, though, the Member’s Mark 2-ply tissues are excellent (we have boxes in most rooms of the house).How much you might save will depend on what kind of tissues you typically buy. We buy a combo of the 3-ply, which is more expensive than some Kleenex options, and the 2-ply, which is cheaper than all but the lowest-tier Kleenex at Sam’s Club:ItemPriceTissues Per BoxPrice per TissueMember’s Mark Ultra Soft 3-Ply Facial Tissues$13.9880$0.015Kleenex Lotion 3-Ply Facial Tissues$17.48120$0.012Kleenex Anti-Viral 3-Ply Facial Tissues$16.7455$0.025Member’s Mark 2-Ply Facial Tissues$14.98160$0.011Kleenex Trusted Care 2-ply Facial Tissues$17.94200$0.009Data source: Sam’s ClubIt’s worth noting here that these are all Sam’s Club prices. If you normally buy tissues at the grocery or big box store, you’re likely going to save a ton. My local grocer charges more for the 2-ply Kleenex than I pay for my 3-ply Member’s Mark tissues!3. Member’s Mark parchment paperWe do a lot of cooking and baking in our house, so having parchment paper on hand is a must. I’ve been using Member’s Mark parchment paper exclusively for many years now, and it’s gotten me through many holiday cookie seasons.The quality of the paper is top-notch. I rarely have issues with it, it cuts well off the roll, and the rolls are wide enough to cover a half sheet pan without issue. Plus, the length of each roll means I can get at least a couple of years from one package (I’m a fan of anything that means I shop less).I’m also saving a ton. Even if I were to buy a name brand at Sam’s Club, I’d still pay less than half for my Member’s Mark. And it’s roughly a third of what I’d pay at the grocery store:ItemSourcePrice per Sq. Ft.Member’s Mark Unbleached Parchment PaperSam’s Club$0.035Member’s Mark Parchment PaperSam’s Club$0.038Reynolds Kitchens Pop-Up Parchment Paper SheetsSam’s Club$0.085Reynolds Parchment PaperPrice Chopper$0.102Data sources: Sam’s Club, Price ChopperIt’s time to give Member’s Mark a tryI held off on trying Member’s Mark for a while because I’ve been burned by store brands before. But I can tell you from years of actual experience that many Member’s Mark products are absolutely the good-quality brand-name replacements you’ve been after.Plus, with Sam’s Club’s excellent return policy, if you’re not happy with something, you can always just take it back!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”:”

I prefer a balanced approach when I make a budget, cutting back where I can but with room to spend a little more on the things I enjoy most. This philosophy is something my family applies to everything we purchase, including our household essentials.

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.

When we like a brand-name product better, we go with that. When the store brand is better, we’re happy to stick with the cheaper option.

I keep my Sam’s Club membership in large part because Member’s Mark items often provide the best of both worlds. Not only do we save money, but we also simply like the products as much as — or even more than — the brand names we’re replacing. Here are a few examples.

1. Member’s Mark aluminum foil

We became dedicated Member’s Mark aluminum foil fans during our Summer of Smoke and Ribs. We especially love the Member’s Mark Heavy Duty Foodservice Foil, which is extra wide and easily enrobed our ribs without tearing or leaking.

The rolls are long enough (500 feet!) that we didn’t need to buy a new roll every weekend. And, happily, the price is just right. We save $0.03 a square foot over buying the brand name at Sam’s Club, and almost $0.10 per square foot over the grocery store:

Pro tip: To credit card issuers, Sam’s Club is a warehouse club, not a grocery store. Make sure you’re using a cash back rewards card with the right bonus categories to maximize your Sam’s Club purchases.

2. Member’s Mark facial tissues

We were a very dedicated Kleenex house for many years before we joined Sam’s Club and started exploring the Member’s Mark alternatives. Now, I can confidently say we unanimously prefer the Member’s Mark tissues over any other brand we’ve tried.

Our tip-top pick is the Member’s Mark Ultra Premium 3-ply because they just feel the best on your face/nose. For everyday use, though, the Member’s Mark 2-ply tissues are excellent (we have boxes in most rooms of the house).

How much you might save will depend on what kind of tissues you typically buy. We buy a combo of the 3-ply, which is more expensive than some Kleenex options, and the 2-ply, which is cheaper than all but the lowest-tier Kleenex at Sam’s Club:

It’s worth noting here that these are all Sam’s Club prices. If you normally buy tissues at the grocery or big box store, you’re likely going to save a ton. My local grocer charges more for the 2-ply Kleenex than I pay for my 3-ply Member’s Mark tissues!

3. Member’s Mark parchment paper

We do a lot of cooking and baking in our house, so having parchment paper on hand is a must. I’ve been using Member’s Mark parchment paper exclusively for many years now, and it’s gotten me through many holiday cookie seasons.

The quality of the paper is top-notch. I rarely have issues with it, it cuts well off the roll, and the rolls are wide enough to cover a half sheet pan without issue. Plus, the length of each roll means I can get at least a couple of years from one package (I’m a fan of anything that means I shop less).

I’m also saving a ton. Even if I were to buy a name brand at Sam’s Club, I’d still pay less than half for my Member’s Mark. And it’s roughly a third of what I’d pay at the grocery store:

It’s time to give Member’s Mark a try

I held off on trying Member’s Mark for a while because I’ve been burned by store brands before. But I can tell you from years of actual experience that many Member’s Mark products are absolutely the good-quality brand-name replacements you’ve been after.

Plus, with Sam’s Club’s excellent return policy, if you’re not happy with something, you can always just take it back!

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 

[[{“value”:”Image source: The Motley Fool/Upsplash
In case you didn’t catch the news, on Nov. 7, the Federal Reserve lowered its benchmark interest rate by a quarter of a percentage point. And that wasn’t the first time the central bank lowered the federal fund rate this year. In September, the rate fell by half a percentage point.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. As a result of the Fed’s rate cuts, CD rates have come down. Earlier this year, it was easy enough to find a CD paying 5%. Nowadays, you’re most likely looking at a rate in the 4% range, which is still pretty competitive. But whether it’s worth putting money into a CD today depends on your personal situation — and specifically, what you want to use your money for.Think about your specific goalsGenerally speaking, CDs are a great financial tool for meeting short-term goals. That’s because money in a CD is protected from losses provided you use an FDIC-insured bank and limit your deposit to $250,000.If you’re saving for a goal that’s a few years away, then investing your money becomes risky. In that situation, you don’t have a lot of time to ride out market downturns. So in that case, it pays to shop around for a great CD rate and open a CD while you can still snag a pretty good deal.But let’s say you’re saving for a goal that’s far into the future, like the retirement you expect to kick off in 30 years. Or, let’s say you’re saving for your kids’ college education and your oldest just turned six. In that case, investing your money is a better bet because the returns you earn in a stock portfolio might well surpass the CD rate you can snag today.Over the past 50 years, the S&P 500 has averaged an annual 10% return, accounting for years when the market did well and years when it did poorly. If you put $10,000 into a stock portfolio that gives you that same 10% annual return, in 30 years, you could be sitting on almost $175,000. So it’s worth taking a chance on stocks if you have a long time frame.Don’t tie up your emergency fundIf you don’t have a long time horizon, then a CD is a better option than opening a brokerage account and investing your money. But do remember that CDs aren’t paying so much more than what savings accounts are paying today. If you think you might need your money — or some of it — for emergencies or unplanned expenses, then you’re best off sticking with a savings account.Say you have $8,000 in regular savings and another $10,000 on top of that. You might think you’re good to throw that $10,000 into a CD. But if your essential monthly bills come to $3,000, an $8,000 emergency fund doesn’t even buy you three full months of protection, which is the minimum most financial experts recommend.Indeed, CDs offer you the benefit of a guaranteed interest rate on your money. With a savings account, you’re taking the risk that the rate on your savings could fall over time. And that’s actually pretty likely in the coming year, since the Fed is expected to cut rates even more.But a savings account gives you the flexibility to withdraw money whenever you want. With a CD, there’s generally a costly penalty for taking an early withdrawal. So if you’re not sure you can afford to part with your money, you may want to skip the CD and stick to a high-yield savings account.But if that’s the case, make sure your savings account is paying you as much as possible. Check out this list of the best savings accounts to see if you can snag a better deal than what you’re currently getting.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”:”

In case you didn’t catch the news, on Nov. 7, the Federal Reserve lowered its benchmark interest rate by a quarter of a percentage point. And that wasn’t the first time the central bank lowered the federal fund rate this year. In September, the rate fell by half a percentage point.

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.

As a result of the Fed’s rate cuts, CD rates have come down. Earlier this year, it was easy enough to find a CD paying 5%. Nowadays, you’re most likely looking at a rate in the 4% range, which is still pretty competitive. But whether it’s worth putting money into a CD today depends on your personal situation — and specifically, what you want to use your money for.

Think about your specific goals

Generally speaking, CDs are a great financial tool for meeting short-term goals. That’s because money in a CD is protected from losses provided you use an FDIC-insured bank and limit your deposit to $250,000.

If you’re saving for a goal that’s a few years away, then investing your money becomes risky. In that situation, you don’t have a lot of time to ride out market downturns. So in that case, it pays to shop around for a great CD rate and open a CD while you can still snag a pretty good deal.

But let’s say you’re saving for a goal that’s far into the future, like the retirement you expect to kick off in 30 years. Or, let’s say you’re saving for your kids’ college education and your oldest just turned six. In that case, investing your money is a better bet because the returns you earn in a stock portfolio might well surpass the CD rate you can snag today.

Over the past 50 years, the S&P 500 has averaged an annual 10% return, accounting for years when the market did well and years when it did poorly. If you put $10,000 into a stock portfolio that gives you that same 10% annual return, in 30 years, you could be sitting on almost $175,000. So it’s worth taking a chance on stocks if you have a long time frame.

Don’t tie up your emergency fund

If you don’t have a long time horizon, then a CD is a better option than opening a brokerage account and investing your money. But do remember that CDs aren’t paying so much more than what savings accounts are paying today. If you think you might need your money — or some of it — for emergencies or unplanned expenses, then you’re best off sticking with a savings account.

Say you have $8,000 in regular savings and another $10,000 on top of that. You might think you’re good to throw that $10,000 into a CD. But if your essential monthly bills come to $3,000, an $8,000 emergency fund doesn’t even buy you three full months of protection, which is the minimum most financial experts recommend.

Indeed, CDs offer you the benefit of a guaranteed interest rate on your money. With a savings account, you’re taking the risk that the rate on your savings could fall over time. And that’s actually pretty likely in the coming year, since the Fed is expected to cut rates even more.

But a savings account gives you the flexibility to withdraw money whenever you want. With a CD, there’s generally a costly penalty for taking an early withdrawal. So if you’re not sure you can afford to part with your money, you may want to skip the CD and stick to a high-yield savings account.

But if that’s the case, make sure your savings account is paying you as much as possible. Check out this list of the best savings accounts to see if you can snag a better deal than what you’re currently getting.

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 

[[{“value”:”Image source: The Motley Fool/Unsplash
I’ve been a Costco member for 18 years. And before the COVID-19 pandemic, I’m not even sure I knew that Costco had a website.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!Well, okay, I knew that Costco.com existed, but I’m not sure I ever used it. And why would I when I could easily drive the 10 to 15 minutes to not one, but two Costco stores in my area?Once the pandemic took hold, I, like many people I know, got into the temporary habit of ordering groceries and household items online. But outside of that period, Costco.com isn’t a site I visit despite being a huge fan of Costco itself. Here’s why.1. The prices are higherOne of the reasons I love Costco so much is that it helps me save money in the course of feeding my family and keeping my home stocked with the supplies we go through regularly, like tissues and laundry detergent.I’m also able to maximize my savings by using the right credit card for my purchases. Click here for a list of the best credit cards for Costco.The problem with Costco.com is that the prices are higher than what I typically see in stores. And that makes sense, since the cost of shipping and handling is often built in. But the way I see it, why should I pay $2 to $3 more per item I’m buying when the store is close enough?If I’m buying 12 items at a time, that extra per-item cost could amount to $24 to $36 per week. And even though my minivan guzzles gas, the short trip to Costco doesn’t cost me nearly that much in fuel.2. I want the freshest stuffDuring the pandemic, I was grateful for the option to have fresh food from Costco delivered to my door. But let’s be real — when you order fresh groceries to be delivered, you’re generally not getting the best sell-by dates or the freshest stuff. And that’s especially a problem when you’re buying things in bulk.It’s one thing to buy a huge carton of strawberries that look fantastic the day you bring them home, only to have them start to mold a couple of days later. It’s another thing to have someone deliver a carton that already looks like it’s seen better days.Freshness can be an issue with non-perishables, too. If I’m buying a massive tub of peanut butter pretzels, I want the best expiration date and the most time to use it up.If I buy that item at a Costco store, I can compare sell-by dates on the shelf. If I order it online, I’m at the mercy of the person who’s fulfilling my order.3. I actually enjoy going to Costco and seeing what’s in stockThe thing I probably enjoy the least about shopping at Costco in person is the crowds. I try to mitigate those by arriving at the store as soon as it opens, but sometimes, even that strategy fails.But despite the crowds, I happen to enjoy going to Costco and seeing what the store has in stock. Even though I’m there almost every week, I’m often surprised — in a good way — by the new products I see on the shelves.Of course, if I’m not careful, that could lead to a host of impulse purchases. So I set a rule for myself: I plug a small amount of money into my Costco budget for unplanned buys each month. As long as I stick to that threshold, it doesn’t hurt my finances. And sometimes, the items I buy on a whim end up being fantastic purchases.In September, I grabbed a fall-themed trail mix that’s proven to be a terrific snack when I need a pick-me-up. And a few years back, I found a branded fleece sweatshirt with my favorite hockey team’s logo that I’ve worn repeatedly every winter since.If you live far away from your closest Costco store or don’t have a car, then it makes sense to shop on Costco.com. Otherwise, consider doing your Costco shopping in person to maximize your membership. It could help you save more money and guarantee that you’re bringing home fresher grocery items.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.Maurie Backman 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”:”

I’ve been a Costco member for 18 years. And before the COVID-19 pandemic, I’m not even sure I knew that Costco had a website.

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!

Well, okay, I knew that Costco.com existed, but I’m not sure I ever used it. And why would I when I could easily drive the 10 to 15 minutes to not one, but two Costco stores in my area?

Once the pandemic took hold, I, like many people I know, got into the temporary habit of ordering groceries and household items online. But outside of that period, Costco.com isn’t a site I visit despite being a huge fan of Costco itself. Here’s why.

1. The prices are higher

One of the reasons I love Costco so much is that it helps me save money in the course of feeding my family and keeping my home stocked with the supplies we go through regularly, like tissues and laundry detergent.

I’m also able to maximize my savings by using the right credit card for my purchases. Click here for a list of the best credit cards for Costco.

The problem with Costco.com is that the prices are higher than what I typically see in stores. And that makes sense, since the cost of shipping and handling is often built in. But the way I see it, why should I pay $2 to $3 more per item I’m buying when the store is close enough?

If I’m buying 12 items at a time, that extra per-item cost could amount to $24 to $36 per week. And even though my minivan guzzles gas, the short trip to Costco doesn’t cost me nearly that much in fuel.

2. I want the freshest stuff

During the pandemic, I was grateful for the option to have fresh food from Costco delivered to my door. But let’s be real — when you order fresh groceries to be delivered, you’re generally not getting the best sell-by dates or the freshest stuff. And that’s especially a problem when you’re buying things in bulk.

It’s one thing to buy a huge carton of strawberries that look fantastic the day you bring them home, only to have them start to mold a couple of days later. It’s another thing to have someone deliver a carton that already looks like it’s seen better days.

Freshness can be an issue with non-perishables, too. If I’m buying a massive tub of peanut butter pretzels, I want the best expiration date and the most time to use it up.

If I buy that item at a Costco store, I can compare sell-by dates on the shelf. If I order it online, I’m at the mercy of the person who’s fulfilling my order.

3. I actually enjoy going to Costco and seeing what’s in stock

The thing I probably enjoy the least about shopping at Costco in person is the crowds. I try to mitigate those by arriving at the store as soon as it opens, but sometimes, even that strategy fails.

But despite the crowds, I happen to enjoy going to Costco and seeing what the store has in stock. Even though I’m there almost every week, I’m often surprised — in a good way — by the new products I see on the shelves.

Of course, if I’m not careful, that could lead to a host of impulse purchases. So I set a rule for myself: I plug a small amount of money into my Costco budget for unplanned buys each month. As long as I stick to that threshold, it doesn’t hurt my finances. And sometimes, the items I buy on a whim end up being fantastic purchases.

In September, I grabbed a fall-themed trail mix that’s proven to be a terrific snack when I need a pick-me-up. And a few years back, I found a branded fleece sweatshirt with my favorite hockey team’s logo that I’ve worn repeatedly every winter since.

If you live far away from your closest Costco store or don’t have a car, then it makes sense to shop on Costco.com. Otherwise, consider doing your Costco shopping in person to maximize your membership. It could help you save more money and guarantee that you’re bringing home fresher grocery items.

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.Maurie Backman 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 

[[{“value”:”Image source: Getty Images
If you’re tired of spending a boatload of money on groceries and household essentials, then it could pay to join a warehouse club like Sam’s Club. A basic Club membership at Sam’s Club costs $50 a year, while an upgraded Plus membership offering 2% cash back on purchases costs $110.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. Plus, Sam’s Club members get to enjoy perks like low-cost gasoline. If you drive frequently, the savings on gas, coupled with your grocery savings, could more than make up for your annual membership fee. And if you pair a membership with the right credit card, you can boost your fuel savings even more. Click here for a list of the best credit cards for gas.But the benefits of joining Sam’s Club go well beyond these perks. Here are a few you may not realize you get access to as a member.1. Curbside pickupOne drawback of shopping at warehouse club stores like Sam’s Club and Costco is that they tend to be crowded. That could make for an unpleasant experience, and it can be time-consuming.Costco doesn’t offer the option to have your orders picked up curbside, but Sam’s Club does. And if you’re a Plus member, your curbside pickup is always free, no matter how much you spend.As a regular Club member, you get free curbside pickup for orders of $50 or more. But that’s not a hard threshold to meet when you’re buying things in bulk.Not only can curbside pickup be convenient when you’re short on time, but if you’re a parent without child care who dreads the idea of hauling an infant into a packed warehouse club store, this service could be a lifesaver. You can roll up to the curb with your sleeping child in the backseat and collect your order without them being any the wiser. 2. A generous return policyAt Sam’s Club, you don’t have to worry about getting stuck with purchases you regret. Sam’s Club will take back almost any item at any time, making it one of the most flexible retailers with returns. However, you should know about a few exceptions. For electronics and major appliances, you get 90 days to make a return. For commercial heavy equipment, you get 30 days (but that’s also something the typical Sam’s Club member probably isn’t buying much of). One area where you get a bit less leeway is cellphones. Sam’s Club only gives you 14 days to make a return. And gift cards, event tickets, custom-made items, and prescriptions cannot be returned, period. You’ll also need to check with your local club store to see if it accepts returns for alcohol, cigarettes, tires, batteries, eyeglasses, and hearing aids3. Free hearing testsHearing issues can affect people of all ages. Sam’s Club stores feature state-of-the-art testing equipment to detect hearing issues for people who are 19 years old or older. And the best part? Annual follow-up screenings are free.That’s an especially important thing for seniors, since original Medicare doesn’t cover hearing tests as part of its benefits. Rather, Medicare enrollees have to pay for those out of pocket, so getting a screening at Sam’s Club for free is a huge benefit. These are only some of the less obvious perks Sam’s Club members get to enjoy. If you’re interested in joining, it pays to do some digging to learn about the many benefits a membership gives 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.Maurie Backman 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”:”

If you’re tired of spending a boatload of money on groceries and household essentials, then it could pay to join a warehouse club like Sam’s Club. A basic Club membership at Sam’s Club costs $50 a year, while an upgraded Plus membership offering 2% cash back on purchases costs $110.

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.

Plus, Sam’s Club members get to enjoy perks like low-cost gasoline. If you drive frequently, the savings on gas, coupled with your grocery savings, could more than make up for your annual membership fee.

And if you pair a membership with the right credit card, you can boost your fuel savings even more. Click here for a list of the best credit cards for gas.

But the benefits of joining Sam’s Club go well beyond these perks. Here are a few you may not realize you get access to as a member.

1. Curbside pickup

One drawback of shopping at warehouse club stores like Sam’s Club and Costco is that they tend to be crowded. That could make for an unpleasant experience, and it can be time-consuming.

Costco doesn’t offer the option to have your orders picked up curbside, but Sam’s Club does. And if you’re a Plus member, your curbside pickup is always free, no matter how much you spend.

As a regular Club member, you get free curbside pickup for orders of $50 or more. But that’s not a hard threshold to meet when you’re buying things in bulk.

Not only can curbside pickup be convenient when you’re short on time, but if you’re a parent without child care who dreads the idea of hauling an infant into a packed warehouse club store, this service could be a lifesaver. You can roll up to the curb with your sleeping child in the backseat and collect your order without them being any the wiser.

2. A generous return policy

At Sam’s Club, you don’t have to worry about getting stuck with purchases you regret. Sam’s Club will take back almost any item at any time, making it one of the most flexible retailers with returns.

However, you should know about a few exceptions. For electronics and major appliances, you get 90 days to make a return. For commercial heavy equipment, you get 30 days (but that’s also something the typical Sam’s Club member probably isn’t buying much of).

One area where you get a bit less leeway is cellphones. Sam’s Club only gives you 14 days to make a return. And gift cards, event tickets, custom-made items, and prescriptions cannot be returned, period. You’ll also need to check with your local club store to see if it accepts returns for alcohol, cigarettes, tires, batteries, eyeglasses, and hearing aids

3. Free hearing tests

Hearing issues can affect people of all ages. Sam’s Club stores feature state-of-the-art testing equipment to detect hearing issues for people who are 19 years old or older. And the best part?

Annual follow-up screenings are free.

That’s an especially important thing for seniors, since original Medicare doesn’t cover hearing tests as part of its benefits. Rather, Medicare enrollees have to pay for those out of pocket, so getting a screening at Sam’s Club for free is a huge benefit.

These are only some of the less obvious perks Sam’s Club members get to enjoy. If you’re interested in joining, it pays to do some digging to learn about the many benefits a membership gives 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.Maurie Backman 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 

[[{“value”:”Image source: The Motley Fool/Upsplash
If you’re struggling to keep up with your mortgage payments, or you simply like the idea of being able to spend a little less money on housing each month, then you may be considering a refinance. That allows you to swap your current home loan for a new one with more favorable terms — like a lower interest rate.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 the final weeks of 2024 may not be the best time for you to refinance. Here are a few reasons you may be better off waiting.1. Mortgage rates keep flip-floppingIn late September and early October, mortgage rates fell quite a bit, to the point where they got close to the 6% mark. But since then, mortgage rates have been fluctuating. Mortgage rates were expected to start falling following the Federal Reserve’s September interest rate cut. In reality, they started falling a bit before that announcement was made and dropped a bit more in its aftermath — only to then creep back upward. And as of this writing, the average 30-year mortgage rate is 6.79%, which is hardly a bargain.Until mortgage rates fall into a steady pattern of declines, you may want to sit tight on a refinance. If you refinance now, you may not end up with a much lower rate than what you already have. 2. You’re not sure how much longer you want to stay in your homeWhen you refinance a mortgage, you’re charged a bunch of fees known as closing costs to put a new home loan in place. The amount you’re charged will depend on your lender, and it’s smart to shop around for offers so you can compare different lenders’ closing costs and rates. To get started, click here for a list of the best mortgage refinance lenders.But because you’re spending money to refinance, it’s important to make sure you plan to be in your home long enough to recoup your closing costs. And if you’re not sure, then you’re better off waiting.Let’s say you spend $6,000 to refinance your mortgage, and that lowers your monthly payments by $250. This means it will take you 24 months to break even. If you think you might move in two years or less, then refinancing doesn’t make sense. If you’re not sure, hold off until you’re more set in your plans. 3. Your credit score isn’t in the best shapeThe higher your credit score when you refinance a mortgage, the lower an interest rate you’re likely to snag. You may be eager to put a new home loan in place before the end of the year. But at this point, that’s only a few weeks away. And it’s not a lot of time to boost your credit score substantially if it needs work. A better bet? Give yourself several months to improve your credit score by paying all bills on time, reducing balances on your credit cards, and checking your credit report thoroughly for errors. Since mortgage rates aren’t so great right now anyway, you’re not missing out on much by waiting until 2025. Refinancing your mortgage could be a huge source of savings for you in the long run. But it’s important to refinance when the time is right. And you may want to hold off on refinancing until mortgage rates settle into a pattern, your plans are certain, and your credit score is in a better place.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”:”

If you’re struggling to keep up with your mortgage payments, or you simply like the idea of being able to spend a little less money on housing each month, then you may be considering a refinance. That allows you to swap your current home loan for a new one with more favorable terms — like a lower interest rate.

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 the final weeks of 2024 may not be the best time for you to refinance. Here are a few reasons you may be better off waiting.

1. Mortgage rates keep flip-flopping

In late September and early October, mortgage rates fell quite a bit, to the point where they got close to the 6% mark. But since then, mortgage rates have been fluctuating.

Mortgage rates were expected to start falling following the Federal Reserve’s September interest rate cut. In reality, they started falling a bit before that announcement was made and dropped a bit more in its aftermath — only to then creep back upward. And as of this writing, the average 30-year mortgage rate is 6.79%, which is hardly a bargain.

Until mortgage rates fall into a steady pattern of declines, you may want to sit tight on a refinance. If you refinance now, you may not end up with a much lower rate than what you already have.

2. You’re not sure how much longer you want to stay in your home

When you refinance a mortgage, you’re charged a bunch of fees known as closing costs to put a new home loan in place. The amount you’re charged will depend on your lender, and it’s smart to shop around for offers so you can compare different lenders’ closing costs and rates. To get started, click here for a list of the best mortgage refinance lenders.

But because you’re spending money to refinance, it’s important to make sure you plan to be in your home long enough to recoup your closing costs. And if you’re not sure, then you’re better off waiting.

Let’s say you spend $6,000 to refinance your mortgage, and that lowers your monthly payments by $250. This means it will take you 24 months to break even.

If you think you might move in two years or less, then refinancing doesn’t make sense. If you’re not sure, hold off until you’re more set in your plans.

3. Your credit score isn’t in the best shape

The higher your credit score when you refinance a mortgage, the lower an interest rate you’re likely to snag. You may be eager to put a new home loan in place before the end of the year. But at this point, that’s only a few weeks away. And it’s not a lot of time to boost your credit score substantially if it needs work.

A better bet? Give yourself several months to improve your credit score by paying all bills on time, reducing balances on your credit cards, and checking your credit report thoroughly for errors. Since mortgage rates aren’t so great right now anyway, you’re not missing out on much by waiting until 2025.

Refinancing your mortgage could be a huge source of savings for you in the long run. But it’s important to refinance when the time is right. And you may want to hold off on refinancing until mortgage rates settle into a pattern, your plans are certain, and your credit score is in a better place.

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