Advertiser Disclosure: Credit.com has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. Credit.com and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers.
Editorial Disclosure: Opinions, reviews, analyses & recommendations are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, endorsed or approved by any of these entities.
Snapshot: This is an entry-level student credit card with great perks, especially for those who travel via Uber or order with Uber Eats regularly.
Basic Features
An ongoing APR between reg_apr,reg_apr_type
A annual_fees annual fee
Perfect for people with credit_score_needed credit
Additional Details
You can earn an unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase
If you spend $100 in qualifying purchases within the first 3 months of opening the account, you qualify for a free $50 cash bonus!
Only through 11/14/2024, you can get a free UberOne membership and up to 10% cash back on Uber and Uber Eats purchases
Pros
Cons
Unlimited 1.5% cash back with numerous ways to redeem
No introductory APR offer
10% cash back on Uber spending through November 2024
Potentially high APR
Coverage of your Uber One membership fees through November 2024
No annual fee
Ready to learn how to apply?
Full Review of Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card
This card is a great choice for students who may not have any credit built up yet but are looking to get in on cash back rewards. Just a heads up: this card is exclusive to students. So if you’re enrolled in a university, a community college or another post-secondary education institution and want to work on building credit while earning some sweet cash back rewards, this card may be right for you. (This is especially true if you’re planning on Ubering around campus or getting delivery through Uber Eats.)
There are quite a few credit card options available in the student credit card market that offer rewards, good interest rates, and low fees for students with low to non-existent credit who are just starting out. There are a few reasons why we like the card_name (in general, Capital One has great card offers), and a few things to consider before applying. Let’s get into it.
What You’ll Like About This Card
Unlimited 1.5% Cash Back
You can earn 1.5% cash back on your everyday purchases with no limits. Other cash back rewards may offer higher, variable cash back rates on unique purchases, but the Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card is simple, direct, uncomplicated. It also allows you the flexibility to redeem your rewards as cash back, gift cards, or statement credits.
10% Cash Back on Uber Eats
Now through November 2024, you can earn even more by using your card to pay for Uber orders. Spend $50 on Uber or Uber Eats every week for a year, for example, and you can end up with an $260 extra as long as you’re paying off your card every month.
Free Uber One Membership
Another way this card helps you save money is that it covers your Uber One membership through November 2024.
Sound good? Learn more about applying for a Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card
The Drawbacks
No Introductory APR Offer
Cards that come with an introductory 0% APR make it possible to make larger purchases initially and pay them off over time without incurring interest. (If you’re a student, that 0% APR may come in handy when buying books or materials for school). However, this card doesn’t have an introductory 0% APR offer.
Potentially High APR
Depending on your approval status, the APR on your card might be relatively high. It’s not a big deal if you regularly pay off your balance, but you might want to shop around to see if you can get a better rate, especially if you have decent credit already.
How Does It Compare to Other Student Credit Cards?
Revvi Visa® Credit Card
Intro APR: None
Intro APR: None
Intro APR: None
Ongoing APR: reg_apr,reg_apr_type based on creditworthiness
Ongoing APR: reg_apr,reg_apr_type based on creditworthiness
Ongoing APR: 35.99% Fixed
Balance Transfer: None
Balance Transfer: None
Balance Transfer: None
Annual Fee: annual_fees
Annual Fee: annual_fees
Annual Fee: $75 first year, then $48 after
Credit Needed: Scores in the credit_score_needed range
Credit Needed: Scores in the credit_score_needed range
Credit Needed: Scores in the poor – bad range
Is It Worth It?
For students looking to build credit, the Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Card can be a good option. If you already spend a decent amount with Uber, you can rack up cash back quickly now through November 2024. Then, you can use that cash to cover books or other necessary expenses or splurge on something fun like a concert or weekend trip.
Are you ready to maximize your credit rewards?
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the credit limits for the Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card (minimum and maximum)?
The credit limit you’re approved for depends on your credit history and ability to pay back any balances. That being said, users of the Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card can likely expect credit limits from a few hundred to a thousand dollars or so.
How soon can I increase my credit limit after being approved for a Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card?
Credit card providers are often willing to increase your credit limit after a period of time in which you have demonstrated on-time payments and responsible credit management.
How good is a Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card for building credit?
This is a decent credit-building card for someone (like a student) just starting to build their credit. Capital One also regularly reports to credit bureaus, so your timely payments will be noted and can help you build credit.
Advertiser Disclosure: Credit.com has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. Credit.com and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers.
Looking for jobs where you work alone? If you’re an introvert or simply want minimal human interaction, here are 40 ideas.
Looking for the best jobs where you work alone? If you’re an introvert or simply want minimal human interaction, here are 40 ideas.
With there being so many different types of jobs out there nowadays, more and more people are looking for jobs where they can be by themselves, away from the busy office or customers. They find comfort in jobs where they can do tasks on their own, letting them really concentrate and do well in what they do best.
For me, I have worked mostly alone for over a decade now, and I wouldn’t change it for the world. I enjoy the flexibility of working on my own and having less stress.
Jobs that let you work this way are usually appealing to introverted individuals, those who like a calmer setting, or people who just work better with more independence.
Knowing which jobs let you work alone is really important for those who want to find the right mix of being on their own and getting things done well.
Top Jobs Where You Work Alone
There are 40 jobs where you can work alone listed below. If you want to skip the list, here are some jobs that you may want to start learning more about first:
Benefits of Jobs Where You Work Alone
More and more people are looking for jobs where they can work alone, and I get it! I have been working mostly alone for over a decade and I really love it.
After all, a person spends so much of their time working, so you might as well like what you’re doing. If you’re an introvert, or if you like working by yourself, there are jobs where you can do just that.
Some of the positives of working alone include:
Less stress if you’re an introvert – If you’re an introvert, then you may feel stress when working with other people, such as coworkers and customers.
Getting more stuff done in less time – Working alone may mean that you can complete your tasks faster because there are fewer distractions.
Having a more flexible schedule – Some jobs where you work on your own sometimes let you choose when you want to work, as long as you get the work done.
If you’re looking for jobs where you work alone, think about what you’re good at and what you enjoy (and also think about what you don’t like!).
40 Jobs Where You Work Alone
Below are 40 jobs where you can work on your own. The jobs below range from earning a part-time to a full-time income too.
1. Proofreader
Proofreaders check and edit written content for errors and inconsistencies, and this job requires strong attention to detail and excellent grammar skills.
If you’re good at paying close attention to details, then proofreading could be an ideal work-alone job for you.
Authors, website owners, and students often hire proofreaders to improve their work. There’s a high demand for proofreaders, and you can find jobs through many different platforms.
Even the most skilled writers can make mistakes in grammar, punctuation, and spelling. That’s why hiring a proofreader can be very helpful for pretty much anyone and everyone.
If you want to find online proofreading jobs, I recommend joining this free 76-minute workshop focused on proofreading. In this workshop, you’ll learn how to begin your own freelance proofreading business.
Recommended reading: 20 Best Online Proofreading Jobs For Beginners (Earn $40,000+ A Year).
2. Virtual Assistant
One of my first side jobs was as a virtual assistant and it was a fun and flexible way to earn income. While you do have a boss when you are a VA, a lot of the tasks that you do will require you to take charge and complete them by yourself in your own home.
A virtual assistant is someone who helps people with office tasks from a distance. This could be from your home or while you’re traveling. It might include things like replying to emails, setting up appointments, and managing social media accounts.
This job can pay you more than $50,000 each year.
If you want to find part-time or full-time virtual assistant jobs, I recommend joining the free workshop called “5 Steps To Become a Virtual Assistant“.
Recommended reading: Best Ways To Find Virtual Assistant Jobs
3. Bookkeeper
Bookkeepers are people who keep track of all the money-related things for businesses such as writing down sales, keeping a record of expenses, and making financial reports.
This is a job where you can work alone and a typical salary is $40,000+ each year. Plus, you’ll mainly be dealing with numbers and not people.
You can join the free workshop that focuses on finding virtual bookkeeping jobs and how to begin your own freelance bookkeeping business by signing up for free here.
Recommended reading: How To Find Online Bookkeeping Jobs
4. Blogger
Blogging is a great way to make money while working on your own. It’s one of the reasons I really enjoy it, haha! I get to work by myself, for myself, and I can pick the projects I want to work on.
As a blogger, you write content for others to read online. You get to choose what you want to write about as well as how you want to make money blogging because there are so many different options (like affiliate marketing or displaying ads).
You can begin a successful blog about a specific topic like finance, travel, lifestyle, family, and many others.
Blogging is my main source of income, and it has completely transformed my life. I have the freedom to travel whenever I want, set my schedule, and be my boss.
Since I began Making Sense of Cents, I’ve made more than $5,000,000 from my blog. I earned this money by working with companies through sponsored partnerships, affiliate marketing, display ads, and selling online courses.
Learn more at How To Start A Blog FREE Course.
5. Delivery Driver
Delivery drivers pick up and drop off packages. And, they get to work by themself most of the time as they are in the vehicle alone.
A delivery driver may drive a car, truck, or even a bike, depending on the company they work for. They don’t usually have a boss watching them all day nor have to deal with very many customers for long periods.
6. Book Reviewer
Book reviewers read books and share their thoughts in book reviews.
There are websites where you can get paid for sharing your thoughts about books and you may earn money through PayPal or a bank transfer, and sometimes you get to keep the book you reviewed.
They don’t just want positive reviews either, they want to know what you really think! You see, authors and publishers like to send out free copies of their books so that they can get honest opinions. Just like us, they know it’s helpful to read reviews before deciding if a book is worth the time.
Some sites that pay for book reviews include Online Book Club, Kirkus Media, and BookBrowse.
Recommended reading: 7 Best Ways To Get Paid To Read Books
7. Deliver RVs or Cars
You can earn money by traveling across the country and delivering vehicles for people and dealerships. Sometimes you’ll be towing the vehicle, and other times you’ll be driving it.
If you want a job with minimal human interaction, this can be a good one to look into as you are mostly by yourself. You simply pick up the vehicle, drive by yourself, and then drop it off.
For this job, you need to have a clean driving record. Those who do this type of work can earn around $300 to $400 (or much more!) for each vehicle they deliver. It depends on the distance they are traveling and what is being transported.
8. Digital or Graphic Designer
A graphic designer is someone who creates designs for others, such as people and businesses.
As a digital designer, you may be making things like images, printables, planners, t-shirt designs, calendars, business card designs, social media graphics, stickers, logos, and more.
Recommended reading: How To Make Money As A Digital Designer
9. Pet Sitter and Dog Walker
Pet sitters and dog walkers take care of pets while pet owners are away, such as on vacation or in the hospital. Some of the tasks include feeding, taking dogs for walks, and playing with them.
You might have pets come to your home or you can go to their owner’s place (this is something that is agreed upon beforehand). Dog walkers earn around $20 for every hour walking a dog. Looking after someone’s pet overnight can earn a person around $25-$100+ or even more each day.
I have personally paid a person to watch my dogs overnight in their home $100 a day. She was so wonderful too and my dogs loved her.
Now, with this job, you’re not working entirely alone, because you will be with pets. But, they can be great friends and companions!
Rover is a company you can sign up with and list your dog walking and pet sitting services.
10. House Cleaner
House cleaners make sure homes and businesses are nice and clean. They might work alone or with a small group. They can earn between $25 to $50 an hour for cleaning for others.
You can work for a cleaning company, but you’ll likely make more money if you have your own business.
Starting this kind of business isn’t expensive because you likely already have the cleaning supplies you need. You can advertise your services on Facebook, tell your friends and family, or make an account on Care.com.
11. Transcriptionist
An online transcriptionist’s main task is to listen to video or audio files and then type out everything that is being said, a process known as transcribing. The aim is to accurately write down what is heard, without any mistakes in spelling, grammar, or punctuation.
There are many different types of transcriptionists as well – legal, general, and medical transcriptionists.
This job requires strong typing and listening skills, and you can work from home all by yourself.
Online transcriptionists earn around $15 to $30 per hour on average, with new transcribers on the lower end of that.
A helpful free resource to take is FREE Workshop: Is a Career in Transcription Right for You? You’ll learn how to get started as a transcriptionist, how you can find transcription work, and more.
Recommended reading: 18 Best Online Transcription Jobs For Beginners To Make $2,000 Monthly
12. House Flipper
House flippers buy, renovate, and sell properties for a profit. This job involves managing renovation projects, and you can work alone or with a small crew.
House flipping is when someone buys a property at a lower price, fixes it up (like painting, redoing the kitchen, and improving the outside appearance), and then sells it for more money to make a profit. This is done to make a quick return on the investment.
Recommended reading: 10 Best Books on Flipping Houses To Make Money
13. Grocery Shopper
Grocery shoppers buy groceries for people like you and me, offering a helpful service for those who don’t have the time or can’t shop on their own. You’ll work on your own and talk to clients through an app on your phone.
One service you can easily sign up with to become a grocery shopper is Instacart. This is a popular site for people who want to make extra money by shopping for and delivering groceries.
Instacart shoppers make money from a mix of base pay, tips from customers, and sometimes bonuses or rewards (like for finishing orders during busy times).
You can sign up here to get started as a grocery shopper with Instacart.
Recommended reading: Instacart Shopper Review: How much do Instacart Shoppers earn?
14. Affiliate Marketer
Affiliate marketers share products or services with their followers for a commission. You do this by placing a referral link on your website, blog, or social media (like Instagram). When people use that link to buy something, you then get a commission.
For example, if you share a link to a book on Amazon and someone buys it through your link, you make some money. Companies like Amazon want people like you to help them sell things, so they’re happy to work with you as it helps them.
If you get someone to sign up through your special link, the company gives you a commission for telling others about their product. It’s like a little thank-you for your help!
This is one of my favorite jobs where you work alone from home, and what I do full-time!
Click here to get Affiliate Marketing Tips – Free eBook.
15. Flea Market Flipper
Flea market flippers find underpriced items at flea markets, yard sales, and thrift stores, then resell them for a profit. This job requires a good eye for valuable items and the ability to research market value.
Finding items to resell may be one of the best jobs to work alone on this list because we all have things in our house we could probably sell. Plus, there are always things that you can buy for a low price and possibly resell for a profit.
If you are looking for work-alone jobs, this is a great one to look further into.
I recommend signing up for this great webinar, Turn Your Passion For Visiting Thrift Stores, Yard Sales & Flea Markets Into A Profitable Reselling Business In As Little As 14 Days, that will help you learn how to make money by flipping items as well.
16. Sell Printables on Etsy
Creating and selling digital printables on Etsy is a great way to work independently and earn money.
Making printables can also be a pretty hands-off job since you only have to create one digital file for each product, and you can sell it as many times as you like. It’s quite affordable to start because you only need a laptop or computer and an internet connection.
Printables are digital items that customers can download and print at home. They can include things like bridal shower games, grocery shopping checklists, budget planners, invitations, printable quotes for wall art, and patterns.
I recommend signing up for Free Workshop: How To Earn Money Selling Printables. This free training will give you great ideas on what you can sell, how to get started, the costs, and how to make sales.
17. Mechanic
Mechanics diagnose and repair vehicles, working independently or in small shops. Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of automotive systems are important.
Being a mechanic is a job where you often work on your own. While they might work in a garage with other mechanics, they often have their own tasks to do. They need to be really careful and pay close attention to make sure everything gets fixed just right.
18. Dog Treat Baker
Do you really like dogs? If you do, here’s a way to work mainly alone and make an extra $500 to $1,000 or even more each month.
You don’t need to know how to bake beforehand, because you can learn this skill. You can make special treats like cupcakes, cookies, cakes, and more, all for dogs.
You can sign up for this free training workshop that shows how to start a dog treat bakery.
You can learn more at How I Make $4,000 Per Month Baking Dog Treats (With Zero Baking Experience!).
19. Amazon Seller
Selling items on Amazon is a job where you work alone (mostly) and don’t have to deal with customers face-to-face.
Even if you’re new to selling on Amazon, you can make money by selling household goods, books, electronics, and more.
If you’re interested in learning about starting an Amazon business, you can join this free training that will teach you how to sell products on Amazon and make around $100 to $500+ each day.
20. Stock Photo Photographer
Stock photo photographers work on their own, and this job can be done without talking to anyone for the most part. Almost all of the tasks can be done with just a camera and then uploading photos on a site.
Stock image sites are some of the most popular ways for photographers to sell their pictures. These are sites where customers can buy pictures for websites, TV shows, books, social media accounts, and more. There are stock photos that I have purchased within this blog post that you can take a look at to see an example.
One great thing about stock photo sites is that they can be a great form of passive income. You can take pictures, upload them, and earn money from an older photo for months or even years in the future. There is no need to talk to anyone as everything is online and mostly automated.
Some stock photo websites include Shutterstock, iStock, DepositPhotos, and Dreamstime.
Recommended reading: 18 Ways You Can Get Paid To Take Pictures
21. Social Media Manager
Social media managers post on social media accounts for businesses and their goal is to bring in new customers and help a business grow.
Social media managers may post a picture or a video of a product or the company, join in a viral trend to get more views (such as on TikTok), answer common questions from customers, and more.
This includes social media platforms such as TikTok, Pinterest, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.
Salary can vary, and this job can be done part-time or full-time.
22. Landscaper
A landscaper improves and maintains outdoor areas, such as by taking care of the lawn, planting flowers, or even renovating a whole outdoor area (such as to make it more enjoyable to sit outside and have company).
If you’re interested in jobs where you work alone outside, this is one to consider as you will be outdoors and working on your own a lot. Customers may talk to you occasionally, but you are mostly by yourself.
Landscapers work at houses, apartment complexes, businesses, or somewhere else.
23. Data Entry Clerk
Data entry clerks enter, update, and check information in databases or spreadsheets. They type information such as numbers and names into computers to keep things organized and recorded.
This job can sometimes be done remotely and alone, with minimal supervision or interaction with customers.
Data entry jobs typically pay around $15-$20 an hour.
24. Editor
Editors review and improve written content for clients and they usually work on their own as most of their time is spent editing content.
Their job is to read articles, blog posts, advertising, books, and more to make them better. They fix any mistakes in grammar or spelling and help the words flow smoothly.
Editors typically earn anywhere from $40-$60+ an hour.
25. Freelance Writer
Freelance writers write content for clients, such as blog posts, advertising, and more. Freelance writing jobs where you work by yourself are common as you’ll be given a topic to write about from the client, and when you are done you may be given some feedback (such as paragraphs to improve or add to). But, that is usually as much human interaction as you’ll get if you want.
You can find different writing jobs on platforms like Upwork and Fiverr, or even find clients on your own.
I was a freelance writer for many years before switching to working full-time writing here on Making Sense of Cents. It is a great career path where you can work from home mostly by yourself.
Recommended reading: 14 Places To Find Freelance Writing Jobs – (Start With No Experience!)
26. Translator
Translators convert written content from one language to another, requiring fluency in at least two languages. Freelance and remote opportunities are available.
If you know another language, you might be able to find a work-from-home job where you can earn money by reading books and translating them. Another option is to get paid for proofreading or editing translated books to ensure they read smoothly and accurately.
There are lots of places you can find translation jobs, such as UpWork, Babelcube, Today Translations, Ulatus, Fiverr, and more.
27. Computer Programmer
Computer programmers write and maintain computer software, often working alone on projects.
They use coding to tell computers what to do and create all sorts of things like apps, games, and websites.
28. Canva Template Designer
Creating and selling Canva templates online allows you to work alone.
A Canva template is like a ready-made design that you can use for things like making posters, Pinterest pins, ebooks, or presentations. It’s like having a helpful starting point if you’re not super good at designing things from scratch. Canva templates come with empty spaces where you can put in your own words and pictures and you can also change colors and fonts to make them just how you like. They’re really helpful for people who want their things to look nice without spending a lot of time on it.
Making and selling Canva templates can be a great way to earn extra money as you only need to create them once, and then you can sell them as many times as you like.
Recommended reading: How I Make $2,000+ Monthly Selling Canva Templates
29. Voice Over Actor
A voice-over actor is the person whose voice you hear but don’t see in YouTube videos, radio ads, educational videos, and more.
Voice-over actors many times work right from their own homes!
Voice actors don’t need experience for this job (eventually, it does help, yes). Instead, they need to have a voice that the company is looking for.
Recommended reading: How To Become A Voice Over Actor And Work From Anywhere
30. Truck Driver
Truck drivers are people who move things from one place to another. To do this job, truck drivers need a commercial driver’s license (CDL). This job often involves working by yourself for long hours.
The salary for a truck driver can depend on things like what kind of items they’re moving and the miles they have to drive. Usually, they can make between $45,000 and $75,000 or even more in a year.
31. UPS Driver
UPS drivers deliver packages to people’s homes and businesses. They do this mostly on their own, in their trucks by themselves.
UPS drivers make a good income and they earn about $30-$45 per hour or even more, depending on how many years they have worked at UPS and where they work.
32. Security Guard
Security guards protect property and/or people, and they usually work alone.
A security guard’s salary depends on things like where they work, how long they’ve been doing the job, and what exactly they have to do. Usually, they can make between $25,000 and $35,000 in a year.
33. Self-Storage Facility Owner
Self-storage facilities are where people store their belongings, like boxes of their mementos, vehicles, RVs, and more.
Owning a self-storage business can be a way to make money and run a business with low expenses, plus they typically only have a couple of employees.
Many of the times when I’ve been to a self-storage lot, it’s been just the owner or an employee of theirs working. There are almost no customers either.
Recommended reading: How To Invest In Self-Storage For Beginners
34. Laundromat Owner
Similar to a self-storage business, a laundromat typically does not have very many employees.
Running a laundromat can be a way to make money, with low costs, as most things are automated (the washer and dryer machines do all of the washing).
Recommended reading: Are Laundromats Profitable? How Much Do Laundromats Make?
35. Get Paid To Text
When getting paid to text, you will many times be talking to someone else, but it is all done through text messages.
Some jobs may include:
Text Therapy or Coach
Answering questions, such as if you are a mechanic, doctor, lawyer, veterinarian, home expert, appraiser, computer expert
Customer support
Recommended reading: 28 Ways To Get Paid To Text And Make Money
36. Survey Taker
Taking online surveys and answering questions for focus groups is not a full-time job, but it can be a way to make some extra money.
You share your thoughts and answer straightforward questions, and in return, you can receive cash or rewards such as Amazon gift cards.
The survey companies I recommend signing up for and the best-paying survey sites include:
American Consumer Opinion
Survey Junkie
Swagbucks
InboxDollars
Branded Surveys
Pinecone Research
Prize Rebel
User Interviews – These are the highest paying surveys with the average being around $60.
Recommended reading: 18 Best Paid Survey Sites To Make $100+ Per Month
37. Twitch Streamer
Twitch is a site where you can make money playing video games, talking online in a live stream, and more. A streamer may be able to make money from their own home and all alone. Yes, they do need to be live recording their life, but they are their own boss.
There are many ways to make money on Twitch such as with paid subscriptions, display ads, selling merchandise (like t-shirts and mugs), and more.
Some of the most successful Twitch streamers make hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars each year, but, it’s important to know that most don’t earn much at all.
Recommended reading: How Much Do Twitch Streamers Make?
38. Litter Cleanup Worker
If you own a business, it’s important to keep your place clean and tidy. Nobody likes to see trash lying around, right?
That’s why some business owners are happy to pay for someone to clean up before their business opens for the day. A clean area makes the place look nice and welcoming for customers.
This business can be started all alone and earnings on average are about $30 to $50 for every hour you work. It’s pretty simple too. You’ll just need a broom, a dustpan, and some tools to help you pick up litter easily. It’s almost like taking a stroll while you work! Plus, you can choose when you want to do it, so it can fit nicely into your schedule.
Recommended reading: How I Started A $650,000 Per Year Litter Cleanup Business
39. Google Rater
A Search Engine Evaluator, also known as a Google Rater, is a person who looks at websites and blogs and gives them a score based on how good and helpful they are for Google.
You don’t need to be a tech expert or have a fancy background for this job. Google actually wants regular people, just like you, to rate websites. Plus, you can do this in your own language. Google works in lots of different countries, so you can help out right from where you are.
Recommended reading: How To Become a Search Engine Evaluator
40. Actuary
An actuary is a financial expert who helps businesses figure out and manage their money-related risks, such as for insurance, pensions, and investments.
They use mathematics and statistics to forecast what might happen and help companies make smarter financial decisions.
Actuaries can earn a good salary, and as they get more experience and pass more exams, they can make even more money. Depending on where they work and how experienced they are, actuaries earn average salaries of anywhere between $70,000 to well over $100,000 each year.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jobs Where You Work Alone
Here are answers to common questions about finding jobs where you work alone.
What are jobs with no interaction?What jobs allow me to work by myself?
Yes, there are jobs where you don’t need to talk to people a lot. For example, being a night shift security guard, a transcriptionist, or a stock photo photographer.
How can I work alone from home?
There are jobs where you can work alone at home such as being a blogger, a transcriptionist, or a computer programmer.
What are jobs where you work alone with no degree?
Many jobs don’t require bachelor’s or master’s degrees (a high school diploma will work for many on the list above) and offer the opportunity to work independently. Mowing lawns, painting houses, repairing cars, or walking dogs often don’t require formal education and focus more on skills and experience.
Which part-time jobs are best suited for solitary workers?
Many of the jobs in this blog post can be done part-time, such as any of the freelance jobs, house cleaning, dog walking, and taking surveys. That is one of the joys of many of the jobs above – you can choose your schedule.
What trade jobs can one perform independently?
Trade jobs that you can perform independently include carpentry, welding, or plumbing. These professions usually require specific skills or certifications but may offer opportunities to work alone.
Are there any tech jobs ideal for people who prefer to work alone?
Yes, there are tech jobs that can work well for people who want to work on their own such as web developers, software engineers, or data analysts. These roles usually involve solving problems and working independently, though there might be some instances where collaboration is needed from time to time.
What jobs can be done in isolation with no experience required?
Jobs such as house cleaning, taking surveys, and flea market flipping can be good places to start for entry-level jobs.
How can I find work-alone job opportunities near me?
To find work-alone job opportunities near you, try perusing local job boards, classified ads, or online sites like Indeed or LinkedIn. You can also network with people in your community or join online forums related to your interests to find jobs.
Jobs Where You Work Alone – Summary
I hope you enjoyed this article on jobs where you work alone.
These jobs are like a safe space for people who like being by themselves. It’s a place where you can really concentrate and do your own thing with low social interaction. Jobs where you work alone often appeal to introverts and individuals who require fewer distractions.
Jobs like writing, coding, and freelancing let you work on your own. Not everyone may like working alone, but for those who do, it can be a lot less stressful and overwhelming.
I have been working mostly on my own for years now, and I really love it!
In the list of things you want to be doing around the holidays, fending off scam artists has to be at the bottom. And yet, the holidays can be a prime time for scammers hoping to take advantage of the busy season. One fraudulent transaction is easily overlooked in a bank statement full of gift purchases, and there may not be time to dispute suspicious charges when you’re hosting out-of-town guests.
Research-based advisory firm Javelin Strategy & Research defines an identity fraud scam as a tactic that a criminal uses to steal someone’s personal information for the purpose of illegal financial gain. Consumers lost $43 billion in 2022 to these scams, according to Javelin’s 2023 Identity Fraud Study.
If there’s good news, it’s that there were fewer reported victims of identity fraud in 2022 as compared with 2021, with a 17% decrease in the amount of money lost to scams. The bad news is that scammers have become more sophisticated in their methods and have a new tool in their arsenal: artificial intelligence. AI programs can be used to generate scam emails, text messages or audio recordings that mimic the speech of loved ones.
An awareness of scammers’ latest tools and tactics is a potent defense against identity fraud. Here are five credit card scams to watch out for this holiday season.
1. The Amazon scam
Amazon will be the go-to holiday shopping destination for many people. But as our inboxes fill with order confirmation emails and delivery updates, be cautious about messages that claim to be from Amazon. Scammers may contact you by email, text or phone in an attempt to steal your credit card information. They may say that you need to update your payment method to prevent your Prime membership from expiring, or that your Amazon account will be deleted unless you verify your account by providing payment details.
How to fight it: If you’re unsure if an email or text message is legitimate, don’t click on any links in it. Instead, log in to your Amazon account and go to the Message Center, which contains a record of all communications from Amazon. If you’re contacted by phone, don’t provide your credit card information. Amazon won’t ask for payment information by phone. And never input your Amazon payment info on any website except Amazon.com.
2. The romance scam
The holiday season may heighten feelings of loneliness, which can make romance scams particularly effective. After creating a fake profile on a dating website or social media platform, scammers will strike up a relationship with their victims before making a plea for money. Common reasons for needing money include medical or legal bills or funding for an investment opportunity. The 2023 Consumer Impact Report from the Identity Theft Resource Center, a nonprofit that helps victims of identity crimes, noted that romance scams consistently report six-figure losses, highlighting the seriousness of this scam.
How to fight it: If someone you’ve met on a dating website or social media platform asks you for money, research their name and do a Google reverse image search of their profile picture to try to figure out if they’re masquerading behind another’s identity. Investigate any detail that sounds suspicious; you don’t have to automatically accept what someone says as truth.
Don’t give payment details or personal information that could be used to open credit cards to someone you haven’t physically met.
3. The gift card scam
Gift cards make great stocking stuffers or last-minute gifts, but they’re also a favorite target of scammers. The scammer will contact victims by phone, email or text and ask them to purchase gift cards, usually as a form of payment for an outstanding bill or as prepayment for a service they’re offering to render.
For example, a person posing as a computer technician says he can remove a virus from your laptop in exchange for a $100 Amazon gift card. Once the gift card has been bought, the scammer asks for the gift card’s number and PIN. That way, the scammer doesn’t need to expend any effort getting their hands on the actual card.
How to fight it:No legitimate business or government agency accepts gift cards as payment. Whenever you buy gift cards, keep the receipts and take pictures of the card numbers and PINs in case you need to file a report with the gift card company or the Federal Trade Commission.
4. The charity scam
Donations tend to spike between Thanksgiving and Christmas, and some scammers capitalize on the increased spirit of generosity during this time. Pretending to solicit donations on behalf of a charity, scammers will ask for donations by phone, email, text or a crowdsourcing platform. They may prompt you to enter payment information on a bogus website or give it over the phone.
How to fight it:When you’re asked to make a donation, get the charity’s name and the cause it supports. If you aren’t sure whether you’re corresponding with a legitimate charity, take a beat to do more research. Look up the charity’s name on a website that vets nonprofits, like Charity Watch or Charity Navigator.
When making donations, pay with a credit card if possible: The major card issuers have zero-liability policies that offer you financial protection from fraud. Payments made in cash, cryptocurrency or by wire transfer are harder to recoup; if you’re asked to donate in those ways, it could be a sign that you’re dealing with a scammer.
5. The lottery scam
Coming into a windfall of cash during the holidays sounds too good to be true, and it probably is. In this scam, the criminal claims you’ve won a physical or monetary prize, which is yours as long as you remit payment or hand over your payment information to cover a processing fee.
How to fight it: Ask for the name of the company claiming you’ve won the sweepstakes, and contact them to confirm whether you’re a winner or not. Take care, though, to look up the company’s information yourself rather than using a phone number provided to you by the person saying you’ve won.
A real sweepstakes doesn’t require payment; a real prize is, by definition, free and won by chance. You don’t need to send payment or disclose personal information to win a true lottery.
How to minimize damage and recover from a scam
Even the most vigilant among us can fall victim to a scam. However, there are steps you can take to minimize the damage and work toward recovery.
Prevention: Freeze your credit file with the three major credit bureaus: TransUnion, Experian and Equifax. Scammers can’t open a new credit line in your name when a freeze is in place. You might also elect to receive alerts of suspicious account activity on your credit card, or even when any transaction is made.
Mitigation: If you think your credit card has been compromised, place a lock on the card so it can’t be used until you unlock it. Then, call your card issuer — ask for the fraud department, if one exists — and communicate your concerns.
It’s now possible to activate all 5% category credit cards for the fourth quarter of 2023, including the Chase Freedom, Chase Freedom Flex, Discover IT, Citi Dividend, US Bank Cash+ and some smaller cards. In this post we’ll provide the activation link for each card and links to track your spend, along with strategies to help increase spend in these categories.
Dates: October 1st – December 31, 2023. Store purchases can usually be done until the last minute while online purchases should be given a buffer zone of a day or two.
Activation Link / FAQ / Sample Stores & Exclusions / Our original post
With the Freedom and Freedom Flex cards, activate to earn 5% back this quarter on up to $1,500 in spend at PayPal, Wholesale Clubs, and at Select Charities.
Paypal – Should work for any purchase with Paypal payment. This is always a easy and useful category given that many/most online retailers accept Paypal, e.g. Walmart, Target, Best Buy, etc.
I sometimes pay my taxes with a credit card via Paypal to trigger this category, read more about paying taxes with a credit card in this post.
Some people might find it worthwhile to swallow the 2.9% Paypal fee and max out this category by paying family or friends with their Freedom card. Just note the fine print technically excludes this: “Person-to-Person (P2P) transactions made with your Chase Freedom card on PayPal may be prohibited or not eligible for 5%.”
You can also do your year-end charitable giving with Paypal payments on many charities, or to almost any charity with Paypal Giving Fund.
Readers note that if you use the Freedom Flex via Paypal at Dining or Drugstores you’ll end up getting 7x due to the extra 2x bonus the card has on those categories.
Wholesale Clubs – Should work for Costco, Sam’s Club, BJs, and similar.
Bear in mind, Costco in-club only accepts Visa cards; online you can use Mastercard as well, and you can even order Costco Cash cards for use in-club. Also note, gas at Costco will not work to earn the 5x; the workaround is to buy Costco Cash cards in-club and use those to purchase gas.
You can buy Sam’s Club gift cards at the club or online which can then be used at Walmart or Walmart.com or Walmart gas. (Or you can buy Walmart e-gift cards from Paypal Digital Gifts which also earns 5x as part of the Paypal category.)
Some wholesale clubs sell third-party gift cards or even Visa gift cards.
Exclusions: “Gas, fuel, wholesale specialty service purchases such as travel, insurance, cell phone and home improvement will not qualify in this category. Mastercard not accepted at Costco warehouses or at gas stations.”
Select Charities – includes: American Red Cross, Equal Justice Initiatives, Feeding America, Habitat for Humanity, International Medical Corps, International Rescue Committee, Leadership Conference Education Fund, NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, National Urban League, Thurgood Marshall College Fund, United Negro College Fund, UNICEF USA, United Way, World Central Kitchen GLSEN, Out and Equal, Sage.
Tip: Click this link (login required) to check how far you are along the $1,500.
Discover – Amazon, Target
Activation Link / Our original post
With your Discover card, activate to earn 5% back this quarter on up to $1,500 in purchases on Amazon.com and at Target.
Amazon.com
Target – Not very useful for someone who already has the 5% Target REDcard. It can still be useful for buying Target gift cards at Target which do not earn 5% on the Target REDcard.
Activate to earn 5% Cashback Bonus at Amazon.com and Target from 10/1/23 (or the date on which you activate 5%, whichever is later) through 12/31/23, on up to $1,500 in purchases. Amazon.com purchases include those made through the Amazon.com checkout, like digital downloads, Amazon Fresh orders, Amazon Local Deals, Amazon Prime subscriptions, and items sold by third party merchants through Amazon.com’s marketplace. This also includes purchases in-store at Amazon Go. Amazon, the Amazon.com logo, the smile logo and all related marks are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. Target purchases include those made in store at Target, Target.com, or through the Target app. Purchases from individual merchants and stand-alone stores within physical Target locations may not be eligible for this promotion. Purchases made online or through the Target app from Target affiliates, individual merchants or stand-alone stores may not be eligible for this promotion, including, but not limited to, targetoptical.com and targetphoto.com.
Tip: Login, then click this link to see you how far along the $1,500 you are.
Citi Dividend – Add Me
Landing Page | Our Original Post
With your Dividend card, activate to earn 5% back this quarter at ADD ME. Citi is different than the other cards in that you have a $6,000 annual cap rather than a $1,500 quarterly cap. You can get 5% back on up to $6,000 in this quarter or you can save the entire amount for a different quarter, or you can use part up each quarter.
US Bank Cash+/Elan – Select your Categories
Activation link | Merchant List | Our Original Post
U.S. Bank Cash+ and Elan Max offer 5% cash back in two categories, up to $2,000 combined total per quarter. Keep in mind that Car Rentals was recently replaced with TV, Internet, and Streaming Services.
Here are the current options:
TV, Internet, and Streaming Services
Home utilities
Select clothing stores
Cell phone providers
Electronic Stores
Gyms/Fitness
Fast food
Ground Transportation
Sporting goods
Department Stores
Furniture Stores
Movie theaters
Tip: Login here, then scroll down and click on the red “View Your Cash+ History” button.
Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards
Our Original Post
The Cash Rewards card from Bank of America offers 3% back on one selected category, up to $2,500 per quarter. If you don’t select anything it defaults to gas. Once you selected a category for one quarter, that remains your category in the future unless you change it. Each calendar month you can change it if you’d like, but you’re always limited to $2,500 for the entire quarter.
Gas and EV charging stations (default category)
Online Shopping; this category also includes cable, streaming, internet, and phone plan
Dining
Travel
Drug Stores
Home Improvement/Furnishings
This category is especially lucrative for those who have Preferred Rewards status with Bank of America which can get you 5.25% back on one of these categories at the higher relationship level.
Lots of useful categories here. Important note: the Cash Rewards card also offers 2% back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs up to $2,500 per quarter, and that $2,500 limit combines with the Category Selection limit. After spending $2,500, you’ll earn 1% back on everything.
Other Cards with 5% Category
Nusenda FCU – Retail, Online, Restaurants
Landing Page | Our Original Post
Earn 5% this quarter on up to $1,500 in purchases on Retail Stores, Online Retail Purchases, Restaurants.
This is on top of the regular 1% for a total earn of 6% back.
Abound CU – Amazon
Landing page | Our Original Post
Abound Credit Union Visa Platinum card offers 5% on up to $2,000 on Amazon purchases.
Langley FCU – Grocery, Streaming, Cable, Department Stores
Landing Page | Our Original Post
Langley Federal Credit Union offers 5% back each month in one selected category, on up to $100 cash back total ($2,000 spend).
The category options at time of this writing: Streaming, Cable & Internet services, Grocery, Department Stores.
Vantage West [AZ] – Select your Category
Landing Page | Our Original Post
Get 5x points on the category of your choice, up to $1,500 per quarter. Eligible categories:
Safe Credit Union Cash Rewards Visa card offers 5% this quarter on your choice of one category each quarter (with no apparent limit). This quarter the categories are:
You want to become a homeowner but aren’t sure how you’re going to save up for your down payment. Typically, you’re going to need at least 3% to 5% for a down payment for a conventional mortgage, or 20% on a loan that doesn’t require private mortgage insurance.
Fortunately, there are a number of methods you can use to stash away money for your future home. Here are some of the best ways to save for a house and get one step closer to your dream.
1. Creating a Budget
Living on a budget may not be easy, but in the long run it can help you save money to put toward a home purchase. Creating a budget to track where your money is going is a good first step in a house savings plan.
Some effective ways to do this are recording expenses in a spreadsheet or using a budgeting app to determine your spending practices and identify where changes can be made to meet your savings goal. 💡 Quick Tip: Want to save more, spend smarter? Let your bank manage the basics. It’s surprisingly easy, and secure, when you open an online bank account.
2. Using Cash Envelopes
The theory behind this method is that it may be harder to part with cash than it is to swipe a debit or credit card. The cash envelope budgeting method involves distributing cash each month (or pay period) into envelopes based on categories you establish. When you’re out of cash for each category, you stop spending.
3. Deleting Your Stored Cards
Do you store your payment information on Amazon or other e-commerce stores? If so, it’s time to consider deleting them from each store or from your browser settings. If you have to manually input your card each time you want to make a purchase, you may just stop spending so much money online.
4. Downsizing Your Life
Another one of the tips for saving for a house involves downsizing your life. This could mean moving to a smaller rental or to a more affordable area of town. Just keep in mind that there is always a flip side to downsizing. For instance, your smaller apartment may not include parking, so you might be taking on an expense you didn’t have before. Moving to a different part of town might mean spending more on transportation costs getting to work each day. It’s a good idea to weigh the pros and cons before making any big decisions.
5. Setting Up Automatic Transfers
Reaching your savings goals might happen faster by setting up automatic transfers from checking account to savings account each time you’re paid. If your paycheck is direct-deposited, you may also be able to split the deposit into more than one account, on a percentage or dollar-amount basis.
6. Postponing Vacation
This method can reap plenty of savings if your usual vacation is a costly one. Instead of taking a big trip, a staycation may be entertaining and less expensive. Check out your local newspaper’s website to find free activities and events in your area. Art museums sometimes offer free admission days, and area nature trails are generally free and can be a good way to have fun and get exercise in one fell swoop. Now is the time to be creative since you’re working on your house savings plan.
7. Tackling Your Debt
If you get 4.50% APY in your high-yield savings account, but you carry a credit card balance with an interest rate of 23.99%, it may make more sense to put your money towards your debt right now rather than savings.
8. Eating at Home
Dining out is expensive. The average American household spends more than $3,000 per year on eating out. By skipping the takeout and restaurants and cooking your meals at home, you can add that money to your house savings plan.
9. Making Your Own Coffee
It’s a cliche, but it’s true: If you skip the lattes, you could boost your savings. The average American spends $92 per month on coffee, which adds up to about $1,100 per year. Purchasing a coffee maker and brewing your own cup of joe as opposed to hitting up a coffee shop every day will likely improve your home savings plan.
10. Using Coupons at the Grocery Store
Looking for coupons for items you normally buy anyway can trim your grocery bill. Coupons can be found on coupon websites and on brands’ websites.
Recommended: Tips for Grocery Shopping on a Budget
11. Buying Things on Sale
Just because you want something doesn’t mean you need to have it right away. Waiting to buy things when they go on sale is another one of the best tips for saving for a house. Along with looking at stores’ advertised sales, you could always create a Google alert to find out when things go on sale by typing in your favorite stores’ names + sales on Google Alerts. 💡 Quick Tip: If you’re saving for a short-term goal — whether it’s a vacation, a wedding, or the down payment on a house — consider opening a high-yield savings account. The higher APY that you’ll earn will help your money grow faster, but the funds stay liquid, so they are easy to access when you reach your goal.
12. Using Promo Codes
Promo codes are like coupons for online purchases. Browser extensions that search the web for deals can bring those promo codes to you and save you precious search time and effort.
13. Cutting Out Cable
Cable television can be a major monthly expense for some households, sometimes hundreds of dollars every month. One of the best ways to save is to cut the cord, switch to streaming services, and potentially pay much less per month on your favorite entertainment by saving on streaming services.
14. Canceling Your Subscriptions
You may be spending money on monthly subscriptions without realizing how much. Canceling subscriptions to things like lifestyle boxes you aren’t using anymore or magazines you don’t read can add up to significant savings.
15. Making the Most of the Library
The local library is a fantastic resource. You can borrow books, magazines, and movies instead of buying them, and some libraries even offer access to free audiobooks. Libraries are funded by taxes, so you’re probably already contributing to this resource—there’s little reason to pay twice for items it provides as a public service.
16. Canceling Your Gym Membership
Gym memberships can be pricey, but exercise is not. Using free, online workout videos and things in your home as exercise equipment (e.g., stepping on your stairs, doing wall or table pushups, or using a chair for barre exercises), or walking around your neighborhood can save money over a gym membership.
17. Shopping Around for Insurance
You may be overpaying for insurance. Comparing rates and getting different quotes for your car, renter’s, pet, health, and other types of insurance can ensure you’re getting the best deal possible.
18. Steering Clear of Checking Account Fees
Is your bank charging you a monthly maintenance fee just to keep your account open? If so, it might be worth looking into switching banks or asking your bank how you can avoid these fees. For example, if you have a direct deposit into the account or maintain a minimum daily account balance, you may be eligible for a fee-free account.
19. Selling Your Stuff
Do you have things you never use anymore? Could they fetch some cash? Holding a garage sale or selling your stuff online might net a few dollars to add to your house savings plan. You’ll probably want to buy new things for your new home anyway, and selling your old things will allow you to save up.
20. Asking Your Boss for a Raise
During your annual performance review, consider asking for a raise, highlighting your accomplishments and why you deserve more money. Be specific about improvements you’ve made to the company by backing up your accomplishments with data.
21. Switching to a Better Job
If you aren’t making enough money in your current position, then consider switching to a higher-paying job. It’s a good idea to keep your current job until you find a new one, though.
22. Taking on a Side Hustle
If you have the time and energy, earning extra money on nights and weekends with a side hustle might be an option. For instance, you could start a dropshipping business, take up freelancing, or do affiliate marketing.
23. Signing Up for a Travel Rewards Credit Card
If you need to travel or you are still planning a vacation, using a travel rewards credit card may be a good idea. These cards offer certain rewards for different categories such as travel, gas, and dining out, and allow you to put your rewards towards flights, hotels, rental cars, and more. Plus, many of them offer other ways to save, such as providing you with rental car and baggage delay insurance or no foreign transaction fees.
Recommended: Credit Card Rewards 101: Getting the Most Out of Your Credit Card
24. Getting a Cash Back Credit Card
With a cash-back credit card, you can earn cash rewards every time you spend. Putting that cash back toward a statement credit or bank transfer will help accelerate your savings.
25. Renting Your Spare Room
If you have an extra room in your apartment that you aren’t using, you could get a roommate or list it on a rental site to reduce your overall living expenses. Just make sure that you get permission from your landlord before inviting anyone else to move in.
26. Renting Out Your Storage Space
Another one of the best ways to save for a house is to rent out your unused storage space on a peer-to-peer site. You could generate income without having to do much work at all, and you won’t have to live with someone else—just their stuff.
27. Making Your House Savings Plan Known
Your Aunt Mildred may always get you boxes of chocolates for your birthday, and your dad might give you gift cards for Amazon. But letting your family and friends know you’re trying to save for a home might plant the seed for them to give you cash instead. If you’re getting married, this is a time to tell people about your plans so that instead of registry gifts, they might give you cash for your future home.
28. Opening a High-Yield Savings Account
Putting your money into a regular savings account may not result in much of a return. However, putting money in a high yield savings account may net more interest and get you closer to reaching your savings goals. A high-yield savings account typically offers 20 to 25 times the national average of a typical savings account.
29. Hiring an Accountant at Tax Time
If you’ve been doing your taxes on your own every year, you may have missed potential tax savings you might be eligible for. A tax professional may be able to maximize your savings, possibly resulting in a larger refund, or minimize taxes you owe.
30. Saving Your Tax Refund
If you get a tax refund, consider saving it instead of spending it. The money can be a nice addition to your down payment, possibly even earning interest in high-yield savings account until you need it.
31. Changing Your Tax Withholding
Among the best ways to save for a house is by keeping more money from your paycheck. If your withholding is too high, the IRS is essentially holding your money for you all year round. Instead of getting a large tax refund, keeping your money now and investing it in an interest-bearing account will help you save up for your home.
The Takeaway
Saving for a house takes some time and effort, but there are many different ways to do it. For instance, by eating out less, you could potentially save thousands of dollars a year. Launching a side hustle could increase your income. And opening a high-yield savings account, which typically offers considerably higher interest rates than a traditional savings account, could also help your money grow — and help you achieve your dream of home ownership.
Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with direct deposit, you’ll get a competitive annual percentage yield (APY), pay zero account fees, and enjoy an array of rewards, such as access to the Allpoint Network of 55,000+ fee-free ATMs globally. Qualifying accounts can even access their paycheck up to two days early.
Better banking is here with up to 4.50% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings.
Photo credit: iStock/Talaj
Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.
Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.
The SoFi Bank Debit Mastercard® is issued by SoFi Bank, N.A., pursuant to license by Mastercard International Incorporated and can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.
4.50% APY SoFi members with direct deposit activity can earn 4.50% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Direct Deposit means a deposit to an account holder’s SoFi Checking or Savings account, including payroll, pension, or government payments (e.g., Social Security), made by the account holder’s employer, payroll or benefits provider or government agency (“Direct Deposit”) via the Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) Network during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Deposits that are not from an employer or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc.), merchant transactions (e.g., transactions from PayPal, Stripe, Square, etc.), and bank ACH funds transfers and wire transfers from external accounts, do not constitute Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate.
SoFi members with Qualifying Deposits can earn 4.50% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Qualifying Deposits means one or more deposits that, in the aggregate, are equal to or greater than $5,000 to an account holder’s SoFi Checking and Savings account (“Qualifying Deposits”) during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Qualifying Deposits only include those deposits from the following eligible sources: (i) ACH transfers, (ii) inbound wire transfers, (iii) peer-to-peer transfers (i.e., external transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc. and internal peer-to-peer transfers from a SoFi account belonging to another account holder), (iv) check deposits, (v) instant funding to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, (vi) push payments to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, and (vii) cash deposits. Qualifying Deposits do not include: (i) transfers between an account holder’s Checking account, Savings account, and/or Vaults; (ii) interest payments; (iii) bonuses issued by SoFi Bank or its affiliates; or (iv) credits, reversals, and refunds from SoFi Bank, N.A. (“SoFi Bank”) or from a merchant.
SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder’s Direct Deposit activity and Qualifying Deposits throughout each 30-Day Evaluation Period to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility. The 30-Day Evaluation Period refers to the “Start Date” and “End Date” set forth on the APY Details page of your account, which comprises a period of 30 calendar days (the “30-Day Evaluation Period”). You can access the APY Details page at any time by logging into your SoFi account on the SoFi mobile app or SoFi website and selecting either (i) Banking > Savings > Current APY or (ii) Banking > Checking > Current APY. Upon receiving a Direct Deposit or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits to your account, you will begin earning 4.50% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% on checking balances on or before the following calendar day. You will continue to earn these APYs for (i) the remainder of the current 30-Day Evaluation Period and through the end of the subsequent 30-Day Evaluation Period and (ii) any following 30-day Evaluation Periods during which SoFi Bank determines you to have Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits without interruption.
SoFi Bank reserves the right to grant a grace period to account holders following a change in Direct Deposit activity or Qualifying Deposits activity before adjusting rates. If SoFi Bank grants you a grace period, the dates for such grace period will be reflected on the APY Details page of your account. If SoFi Bank determines that you did not have Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits during the current 30-day Evaluation Period and, if applicable, the grace period, then you will begin earning the rates earned by account holders without either Direct Deposit or Qualifying Deposits until you have Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits in a subsequent 30-Day Evaluation Period. For the avoidance of doubt, an account holder with both Direct Deposit activity and Qualifying Deposits will earn the rates earned by account holders with Direct Deposit.
Members without either Direct Deposit activity or Qualifying Deposits, as determined by SoFi Bank, during a 30-Day Evaluation Period and, if applicable, the grace period, will earn 1.20% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances.
Interest rates are variable and subject to change at any time. These rates are current as of 8/9/2023. There is no minimum balance requirement. Additional information can be found at http://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet..
Bank of America® issues two co-branded cards with the National Education Association, a union for educators: the NEA RateSmart card and the NEA Customized Cash Rewards card. Only NEA members are eligible to apply for both cards.
A sign-up bonus on both cards makes them solid choices for NEA members, and especially those who want a break from interest on purchases, balance transfers or both. Both NEA cards have some of the longest intro APR periods among credit cards today.
Here are five things to know about the NEA credit cards from Bank of America®.
1. There are two NEA credit cards
The NEA Customized Cash earns:
3% cash back in the category of your choice: gas, online shopping, dining, travel, drugstores, or home improvement and furnishings. The category may be changed every month.
2% cash back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs.
Unlimited 1% unlimited cash back on everything else.
Cash back earned from the 3% and 2% categories is capped at $2,500 in combined spending per quarter. Purchases that exceed the cap earn 1%.
Earned rewards do not expire and may be redeemed for a statement credit, check, direct deposit into a Bank of America® checking or savings account, or credit to a qualifying Merrill Cash Management account or Merrill 529 account.
2. An NEA membership is required
Applicants must be a member of the National Education Association to apply for either of the NEA credit cards. The following professionals qualify to join:
Faculty members.
Counselors.
Librarians.
Administrators.
Support staff.
Aspiring educators enrolled in a postsecondary program in preparation for employment in one of the above categories.
Retired professionals.
Total membership costs include national, local and state dues and therefore depend on where each member lives; for the 2023-’24 school year, national NEA dues were $208.
🤓Nerdy Tip
All Bank of America® cards, including the NEA Customized Cash and RateSmart cards, participate in the Museums on Us program that gives Bank of America® cardholders free admission to hundreds of museums on the first full weekend of every month. Only the cardholder receives free admission, though.
3. Both cards feature good intro APRs
The intro APRs from the NEA Customized Cash and RateSmart credit cards are among the most competitive in today’s market. Customized Cash cardholders get 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 18 months. With the RateSmart card, the 0% period for purchases and balance transfers is 21 months.
Two caveats regarding balance transfers apply to both NEA cards. One, the balance transfer must be made within 60 days of account opening to qualify for the 0% intro APR. Also, you can’t transfer a Bank of America®-issued debt to either NEA credit card. Loan balances from other lenders including credit cards, personal loans, student loans, auto loans or home equity loans are allowed.
4. Fees are identical on both cards
Both NEA credit cards have a $0 annual fee and a 3% balance transfer fee. Neither card charges a penalty APR either, meaning Bank of America® won’t automatically raise your interest rate if you pay late.
5. Both cards have sign-up bonuses
As of this writing, the sign-up bonus on the NEA Customized Cash card was a $200 Amazon gift card after spending at least $500 within the first 90 days of account opening. For the RateSmart card, as of this publicaiton, the welcome offer was a $100 Target gift card after spending at least $500 within the first 90 days of account opening.
Many cards with long 0% APR periods don’t offer sign-up bonuses, so the welcome offers on both NEA cards are a nice perk. However, the fact that the bonuses are issued in gift cards rather than cash may be slightly limiting.
XBOX is launching a new no annual fee credit card in partnership with Barclays. With the Xbox Mastercard credit card, players can earn card 5x points on Microsoft purchases and 1x on everyday purchases to redeem at xbox.com. The Xbox Mastercard will be available to Xbox Insiders in the US beginning on September 21, with availability to all Xbox players coming in 2024.
Press Release | Terms
Contents
Signup Bonus
Bonus of 5,000 card points (a $50 value) after your first purchase within the first 180 days.
You’ll also get three months of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate for new Game Pass members. If you are already a Game Pass member, you can gift it to a friend. (After first three months the subscription will automatically continue at the regular monthly rate, currently $16.99/month.)
Card Earning
Xbox & Microsoft – Earn 5x card points on eligible products at the Microsoft Store.
Streaming Services – Earn 3x card points on eligible streaming services like Netflix and Disney+.
Dining Delivery Services – Earn 3x card points on eligible dining delivery services like Grubhub and DoorDash.
Everyday purchases – Earn 1x card points on all other everyday purchases.
Card Points can be redeemed for Xbox Mastercard Gift Cards starting at 1,500 Card Points for $15. You can redeem Xbox Mastercard Gift Cards to your Microsoft account on an Xbox console or connected device; Xbox Mastercard Gift Cards have no expiration date and can be used for eligible purchases (exclusions apply) at select Microsoft digital stores.
Additional Details
$0 annual fee
3% foreign transaction fee
Choice of one of five iconic designs for their card, with the option of personalizing it with their gamertag.
Free online access to cardmembers’ FICO Credit Score
Flexibility of use with contactless payments and digital wallets.
Our Verdict
Nothing too exciting here, and a small signup bonus. I guess it could make sense for someone who spends a ton at XBOX/Microsoft for the 5x rewards there.
Discover has released their rotating 5% categories for the fourth quarter of 2023:
Amazon.com
Target – Not very useful for someone who already has the 5% Target REDcard. It can still be useful for buying Target gift cards at Target which do not earn 5% on the Target REDcard.
Activate to earn 5% Cashback Bonus at Amazon.com and Target from 10/1/23 (or the date on which you activate 5%, whichever is later) through 12/31/23, on up to $1,500 in purchases. Amazon.com purchases include those made through the Amazon.com checkout, like digital downloads, Amazon Fresh orders, Amazon Local Deals, Amazon Prime subscriptions, and items sold by third party merchants through Amazon.com’s marketplace. This also includes purchases in-store at Amazon Go. Amazon, the Amazon.com logo, the smile logo and all related marks are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. Target purchases include those made in store at Target, Target.com, or through the Target app. Purchases from individual merchants and stand-alone stores within physical Target locations may not be eligible for this promotion. Purchases made online or through the Target app from Target affiliates, individual merchants or stand-alone stores may not be eligible for this promotion, including, but not limited to, targetoptical.com and targetphoto.com.
Among the travel-specific credit cards in U.S. Bank’s portfolio, the U.S. Bank FlexPerks Gold Credit Card has the lowest annual fee — and the least amount of benefits. To get the most out of what the FlexPerks card has to offer, you’ll also need to be willing to book travel in the FlexPerks portal, which could be limiting.
Here are five things to know about the U.S. Bank FlexPerks Gold card.
🤓Nerdy Tip
U.S. Bank used to offer a full portfolio of FlexPerks cards, including the U.S. Bank FlexPerks® Travel Rewards® Card. As of this writing, however, the U.S. Bank FlexPerks Gold Credit Card is the only consumer FlexPerks card that’s accepting applications.
1. The card is best suited for travelers
Travelers will likely get the most value out of this card based on its rewards structure and statement credit. It earns:
5X FlexPoints on prepaid hotels and car rentals booked in the FlexPerks Rewards Center.
3X FlexPoints on dining, takeout and restaurant delivery.
2X FlexPoints at airlines, gas stations and EV charging stations.
1X FlexPoint on all other eligible purchases.
FlexPerks cardholders also receive an automatic statement credit reimbursement for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry. The Global Entry credit is available every 4 years and every 4.5 years for the TSA PreCheck.
The FlexPerks card doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees, either.
2. The card’s benefits might not justify the annual fee
The FlexPerks card has a moderate annual fee of $85, but when compared to cards with similar annual fees, that price can seem too steep for what you get in return.
Of those perks, the FlexPerks card only offers the Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit and rental insurance. If you’re willing to pay an annual fee for a credit card, the FlexPerks card may not have the best value.
3. It has a sign-up bonus, but you’ll have to spend a lot to get it
As of this writing, new cardholders can get the following sign-up bonus: Earn 30,000 bonus FlexPoints. Just spend $2,000 within the first four months of account opening.
The 30,000 FlexPoints can be redeemed for $450 toward travel expenses,which is a good welcome offer, but the $2,000 spend requirement to earn the bonus is high. The Chase Freedom Flex℠, for example, has this bonus with a noticeably smaller spend requirement: Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening.
4. There are a variety of redemption options
FlexPerks cardholders have no shortage of ways to redeem FlexPoints, which can be cashed in for the following:
Cash back. Cash back may be redeemed as a statement credit or deposit to a U.S. Bank savings or checking account. You’ll need at least 2,500 FlexPoints to get cash back.
Travel. If you book a round-trip flight using at least 10,000 FlexPoints through the FlexPerks Rewards Center, you get a $25 airline allowance credit as long as you call U.S. Bank’s Cardmember Service within 90 days after travel.
Statement credit to pay for the card’s annual fee. Only 5,000 FlexPoints required.
Gift cards.
Merchandise.
Cardholders cannot earn or redeem FlexPoints if a minimum payment is past due.
🤓Nerdy Tip
FlexPoints are worth 1 cent each when redeemed for cash back, gift cards and merchandise. They’re worth 1.5 cents each when redeemed for travel.
5. ExtendPay makes it easier to pay off large purchases
Some FlexPerks cardholders may be eligible for an ExtendPay plan. Similar to the way buy now, pay later works, ExtendPay lets you pay off balances in fixed monthly payments while avoiding interest charges. However, unlike some BNPL services, U.S. Bank’s ExtendPay charges a fixed monthly fee. A maximum of 50% of your credit line may be put on an ExtendPay plan.
Inside: Looking to celebrate Christmas on a budget? This guide has you covered with creative and affordable ways to do just that.
Are you stressed out about how to afford a fabulous Christmas on your budget? Worry not.
This festive season isn’t about how much cash you fork out, it’s about creating lasting memories and spreading joy.
Why let financial woes dampen the joyous yuletide spirit when you can celebrate a charming Christmas on a budget?
Remember, it’s your money, your decisions, and your rules – no guilt trips or social pressures should force you into spending Christmas in debt.
Today you will learn:
Determine your Christmas budget: Figure out what’s a comfortable amount for you to spend and stick to it religiously.
Be creative with gift giving: Homemade presents or heartfelt letters can be more valuable than pricey items.
Find simple ways to save money: Use these money saving tips to enjoy a festive holiday season.
This holiday season, celebrate responsibly, within your means, for a Christmas that’s merry, bright, and totally guilt-free!
Why Celebrate Christmas on a Budget?
Embracing a budget-friendly Christmas can prove to be not only a smart choice but one filled with warmth, delight, and genuine joy.
Enjoy valuable family bonding time with exciting games and shared activities. Volunteer work, a day of holiday baking, or a simple drive-through Christmas lights sightseeing trip can leave a lasting impression. Look through this Christmas bucket list.
Opt for economical, yet thoughtful gifts or stick to fun gift exchange rules, such as the “four gift rule” for your kids. Remember, it’s the sentiment behind the gift that matters the most.
In essence, an economical holiday season needn’t be a dull affair, rather it’s an opportunity to make it more heartfelt and unforgettable.
This post may contain affiliate links, which helps us to continue providing relevant content and we receive a small commission at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read the full disclosure here.
What to buy for Christmas on a tight budget?
Yes, friend, you can buy meaningful Christmas gifts while sticking to a budget.
In fact, the thought behind a gift is often what makes it special, not the price tag.
A few ideas include homemade gifts, gift cards, subscriptions, and second-hand items. With a little creativity, you can find the perfect present for everyone on your list without spending a fortune.
Below you will find plenty of great gift guides for Christmas that won’t break the bank.
Benefits of a Budget Christmas
1. Allows you to plan ahead and stay on track 2. Prevents overspending 3. Buy gifts that are within your budget 4. Focus on quality over quantity 5. Ensures that everyone gets a gift 6. Helps you avoid debt during the holidays 7. Prevents you from feeling stressed out about money during the holidays 8. Be creative and come up with unique gifts 9. Save for next year’s holiday budget 10. Stay connected to the spirit of the holidays
Savings with Christmas on a Budget
From homemade Christmas decorations to unique gift ideas, it’s possible to create magical moments that’ll last a lifetime without a hefty price tag.
Embrace the true spirit of Christmas – love, family, and togetherness, rather than commercialism, and read on to discover how.
Learn the simple ways to celebrate the festive season without breaking the bank with our creative and budget-friendly Christmas ideas.
1. Think about a No Gift Christmas
Having a No Gift Christmas is a creative and budget-saving alternative to traditional holiday festivities, especially suitable if funds are tight. Why not consider it?
Here are some benefits:
You can alleviate the holiday stress often associated with spending on gifts.
It fosters the idea of Christmas as a season of togetherness, not just gift-giving.
It offers the potential for unique and memorable experiences, like volunteering or creating fun traditions with your loved ones.
Remember, having a memorable Christmas doesn’t have to cost much, or anything at all Learn more about a no gift Christmas.
2. Make Your Own Gifts
DIY Christmas gifts are your perfect solution. They not only save pennies but are laced with your love and creativity.
Start by exploring plenty of creative gift ideas available for free online. Need help? Look for “homemade gifts for Christmas” and you’ll be surprised.
Compile a list of possible gifts from homemade candles to personalized coupon books, keeping the recipient’s likes in mind.
Remember, your efforts will reflect in your gift. So, unleash your creativity and let the magic begin.
3. Borrow Instead of Buy
Borrowing instead of buying is a clever way to have a festive holiday while keeping things budget-friendly. This concept is simple: swap decorations, games, or even gifts with friends, neighbors, or family
Discuss your idea with your circle and organize swapping parties to exchange items.
The key is to creatively engage and make it a fun, budget-conscious activity. After all, Christmas is about sharing and caring!
Remember, return borrowed items in their original condition to maintain trust.
4. Attend Free Events
The Christmas season doesn’t have to be a strain on your wallet. Attending free community events can provide fun and festive celebrations:
To find these events, check your local newspaper or community websites. Be sure to:
Take advantage of free refreshments, but also bring your own to share.
Consider hosting a potluck dinner before or after community events.
Attending free events supports your local community.
Remember, Christmas is about togetherness, not extravagant spending.
5. Make Your Own Decorations
To create a festive atmosphere this season, you could repurpose items around your house or make your own decorations.
Choose a color theme and gather items in those shades, then place them together on a mantel or coffee table to create a coordinated layout.
For a natural touch, clip pine needles, branches, or herbs from your garden, and enhance them with glitter.
Additional budget-friendly options include taking advantage of sales and discounts at thrift stores or crafting handmade decorations such as ribbons from fabric strips or Christmas cookie ornaments.
6. Keep Track of Your Christmas Expenses
Just like throughout the year, budgeting is critical to your financial success.
Nothing changes with Christmas, it is crucial to track and budget your holiday expenses. Jot down every potential cost – from the Christmas tree, and food, to holiday décor.
Be thoughtful about what you really need and opt for items you can use for years.
This is one of the cash envelope categories I recommend saving for. To effectively manage your expenses, assign specific dollar amounts to each item on the list, ensuring you stay within your budget.
Enjoy guilt-free spending and effortless saving with a friendly, flexible method for managing your finances.
Start Your Free Trial.
7. Share the Spirit
Embracing frugality during the holiday season can not only help you save money, but can also create memorable experiences and meaningful connections.
Small gestures, such as sending heartwarming physical letters to loved ones instead of emails, can still convey thoughtfulness and spur the holiday spirit.
By centering your holidays around family activities and endeavors, like homemade ornaments or a scavenger hunt with small gifts, the focus shifts from materialism to fellowship and unity.
Find more frugal Christmas ideas.
8. Check Out Bargain Stores
Bargain stores provide the perfect solution for savvy holiday shoppers looking to save money without compromising on quality or variety. Not only can you find unique, quirky gifts, but you can also keep a lid on your spending while doing so.
Stores like consignment shops or websites such as Craigslist often have high-quality used toys that are nearly new if you’re willing to look carefully.
Another option is to look at discount retailers like TJMaxx as they often host sales during the holiday season, making it even easier for you to save money while hunting for the perfect gifts.
9. Save Money Throughout the Year
Automating your savings for the Christmas season can be a practical and efficient strategy. The 100 envelope challenge is perfect for this!
By setting aside just $50 each month, you could accumulate up to $600 by December, providing a decent budget for your holiday expenses. This method can ease the financial stress during the holiday season, letting you enjoy the festivities without worrying about overspending.
Consider setting up automatic transfers to a high-interest savings account. This ensures your Christmas funds grow without your intervention.
Lastly, try a no-spend month where you only cover essential bills, giving your savings a significant boost.
10. Start a Side Hustle for More Money to Spend
Engaging in side hustles throughout the year can help you significantly cover your holiday expenses.
By delivering food, completing microtasks, selling gently used items, or shoveling snow, you create extra earnings that can go directly into your Christmas fund.
For instance, extra income from a seasonal retail job could help finance gift-purchasing without straining your usual budget.
This strategy not only prevents potential post-holiday debt but also allows you to enjoy the season without financial stress.
In fact, more people are interested in how to make money online for beginners.
This is the perfect side hustle if you don’t have much time, experience, or money.
Many earn over $10,000 in a year selling printables on Etsy. Learn how to get started by watching this free workshop.
If you’ve ever wanted to make a full-time income while working from home, you’re in the right place!
This intensive training combines thousands of hours of research, years of experience in growing a virtual assistant business, and the power of a coach who has helped thousands of students launch and grow their own business from scratch.
11. Shop Online Instead of Going to the Mall
Shopping online for your Christmas gifts can seriously ease your holiday stress, and potentially save you money.
Let’s explore why skipping the mall and clicking your way to a merry Christmas might be your best bet this year:
No dealing with holiday crowds or cranky shoppers.
Enjoy sales and deals without leaving your home.
Track prices over time to grab the best deals.
Use Rakuten to save even more money on purchases.
For smart online shopping, prepare a list of gifts before diving in. Take advantage of the “wish list” option on platforms to curate items of choice and make sure you first glance over deal sites before making purchases.
12. Have a Christmas Potluck
Host a festive potluck! Invite friends and family, asking each to bring their favorite dish.
Here are some tips for a successful event:
Get organized and ask guests to bring specific types of food. This prevents duplicate dishes and ensures a balanced meal.
Introduce a fun element. Try a cookie swap or a silly game like “Guess the Cookie.”
Keep decor simple. A large vase filled with greenery and baubles can effectively replace a pricey Christmas tree.
Remember simplicity is key in food and decor. Costly ingredients and complicated recipes aren’t prerequisites for a memorable Christmas.
Remember, the holiday is about togetherness, not extravagance!
13. Make Your Own Cookies
There’s a unique pleasure derived from making your own cookies during the holiday season instead of buying them. More so, the cookies you’ve invested your time and creativity into can double as thoughtful, homemade gifts, adding another level of sentiment.
Apart from being a cost-effective option, it brings an opportunity to bond with friends and family during cookie exchange or decorating gatherings.
Making your personally crafted cookies also gives you control over ingredients catering to specific dietary needs or preference
Indeed, making your own cookies adds value that surpasses the mere cost savings, it infuses the holiday season with warmth, joy, and a sense of shared experience.
14. Cross Off Activities from your Christmas Bucket List
Having a joyful Christmas doesn’t necessarily mean overspending. In fact, integrating cost-effective activities into your holiday routine can make the season more meaningful and fun.
This Christmas Bucket list post offers an extensive and diverse list of creative ideas for budget-friendly Christmas shopping, gifting, and celebrating.
Additionally, downloading the free printables and a Christmas Budget Template will make the process even more manageable and fun.
15. Have a No-Gift Party
A no-gift Christmas party is an affordable and fun holiday celebration where attendees do not exchange gifts. It’s a great option for those looking to save money and still enjoy the festive season.
Here are steps to make it happen:
Step 1: Decide on the party type, either a simple gathering or a potluck dinner.
Step 2: Inform guests about the no-gift policy in advance.
Step 3: Organize exciting, cost-effective activities such as a game night.
Step 4: Engage guests with games for a joyful event.
Expert Tip: Conversation and laughter are your best tools.
16. Make a Christmas Memory Book
Creating a Christmas memory book is an affordable and engaging way to celebrate the holiday season, especially when you’re on a tight budget.
To start, you can utilize items already at your disposal in your house such as old photos, greeting cards, and crafts.
Spend some time penning down heartfelt messages and your favorite holiday memories associated with each picture or craft. Embellish the pages with affordable decorating materials like glitter, stickers, or color pens.
Not only does this create a personalized touch, but it also serves as a nostalgic keepsake that can be cherished for years to come.
Tip: Digitize your memory book by creating an electronic version. This can also help preserve the original items.
17. Spend Time With Loved Ones
Celebrating Christmas on a budget doesn’t mean skipping on the fun.
It’s about cherishing time spent with loved ones, harnessing creativity, and making priceless memories that last a lifetime.
Here are some cost-effective activities you can embrace this festive season:
Share stories of memorable Christmas experiences.
Organize virtual celebrations with extended family and friends.
Create your own family-themed board game.
Bake Christmas cookies or make a popcorn Christmas tree.
Stream a Christmas church service.
If snow is around, engage in snow play.
Dance to classic Christmas music.
Put together an annual family calendar.
Participate in one of these Christmas Challenges!
Remember, it’s not about what’s under the tree that matters, but rather, who’s around it.
18. Stash Christmas presents all year
Do what I do! Begin addressing the issue of holiday budgeting by stashing Christmas presents all year round.
This is a smart and stress-reducing move!
Find deals throughout the year rather than spending lavishly in December. Hang on to items like discounted gifts in your secret gift closet!
As you build an inventory of diverse items, you will be ready for birthdays or sudden party invites – you’re always prepared!
Just be careful to stop shopping when your list is fulfilled to avoid overspending.
19. Write a Christmas Gift List
Creating a Christmas gift list can be an effective way to manage your holiday spending. This helps you understand the overall picture of your holiday expenditure.
Start by writing down the names of every person for whom you consider buying a gift.
Then, determine how much you’re willing and able to spend on each individual. This helps you understand the overall picture of your holiday expenditure.
Take time to brainstorm potential gift ideas within your decided budget for each person. This process can be even easier and more informative if you’re able to reference a gift list from previous years.
Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that your total intended spending is reasonable and manageable for your personal financial situation.
Remember, you may not need to buy gifts for everyone on your list – some individuals might appreciate homemade or free gifts just as much.
20. Choose Great holiday things to do for less
Set aside the societal notion of linking the joy of holidays to copious spending, and welcome small, inexpensive, yet heartfelt gestures.
Adopting a mindset that finds value in low-cost or even free activities, especially during the holiday season, can not only alleviate financial pressure but also create cherished memories.
Instead of focusing on extravagance and materialistic desires, turning attention to experiences and emotional bonding can revolutionize the celebration!
You can always find things to do on Christmas Day.
21. Think Outside the Box With Gifts
Finding affordable gifts doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice quality or thoughtfulness.
By utilizing a gift guide such as the 4 gift rule – something they want, need, to wear, or read – you can ensure a well-rounded and meaningful set of gifts for each child.
Alternately, consulting lists of inexpensive yet creative suggestions like those curated by Money Bliss can help you find unique presents that won’t break the bank. These affordable finds range from books, gadgets, to personal care items, and home accessories.
Regardless of budget, the key to successful gift-giving lies in understanding the recipient’s needs and interests.
22. Consider Re-Gifting
Re-gifting is a practical, budget-friendly, and environmentally-friendly way to celebrate Christmas. It allows unused or unwanted items another chance to be appreciated and might save you some cash too.
Here are some regifting tips:
Ensure the gift is in good condition, unwanted but quality, and not linked back to its original giver.
Consider the preferences of the new recipient, ensuring the gift suits them.
Completely re-wrap the gift to give it a fresh appearance.
Some may debate the etiquette of re-gifting but remember, it’s more about the thought and less about where the gift originated.
Making smart choices can ensure a successful and fun re-gifting experience this festive season.
23. Use Gift Cards or Cash App to Stay on Budget
Purchase a prepaid gift card from your favorite store to ensure you’re limiting your spending to a specific amount and preventing the temptation of overspending.
If you’re planning to shop from a range of places, opt for a Mastercard of Visa prepaid card. While there may be an activation fee, it’s ultimately going to be less than what you’d potentially overspend.
Another great option is using the Cash App card and learn where you can load your Cash App card.
Also, you can use budget tracker apps like YNAB or Simplifi. These can help you meticulously keep track of your spending and stay within your budget.
Remember, the key is to stick to a budget and avoid falling prey to impulsive purchases. Using gift cards or these budgeting apps makes it easier to limit and monitor your expenses.
24. Use Money Gift Ideas Wisely
Money gift ideas can be an excellent alternative to traditional presents, especially when budgeting is a critical aspect.
Too many times, money gift ideas are overlooked as impersonal, but a money gift box or money cake will definitely surprise the recipient.
This will guarantee you will stay within your target budget by using money gift ideas.
For larger families, a gift exchange with a set price limit can keep costs manageable.
25. Donate to Charity Or Volunteer
Volunteering at a charity is a meaningful way to give back during the holiday season that doesn’t put a strain on your budget.
Instead of buying more items a person may not need, you’re investing time, money, and energy in causes they care about. Although this doesn’t require a financial commitment, it’s a generous gift full of sentiments.
Furthermore, donating money to a charity in someone’s name is a thoughtful and effective way to honor someone who already has everything they need. It allows the recipient to feel the joy of giving, yet remains a budget-friendly option for the giver.
If you’re keen on frugal yet meaningful ways to celebrate Christmas, how about considering charitable donations? It’s a splendid alternative to traditional gift-giving – not hard on your wallet, plus it makes a difference!
Most people know it is hard enough to buy gifts for the woman you who has everything or kids who have everything.
How to Make a Christmas Budget
A lot of joy and goodwill is associated with the holiday season; however, it also brings with it the challenge of managing finances meticulously to avoid slipping deep into credit card debt.
One of the effective ways to keep your finances under control during this festive time is by creating an efficient Christmas budget.
In the following sections, we will delve in detail into the simple process of creating a feasible Christmas budget that you can adhere to.
Step 1: Decide What You Want to Spend on Christmas
Determining how much to spend at Christmas depends on your individual budget and financial situation.
On a general basis, most people will overspend at Christmas in order they don’t look broke or not generous.
However, that thought process is backward if you are trying to reach your financial goals. You need to decide on how much you want to spend at Christmas time.
That is why these consumable gifts tend to be popular.
Expert Tip: Avoid surpassing your Christmas budget to prevent feeling the pinch of holiday debt later on. Stick to your allocations and plan things out in advance.
Step 2: Make a List of Christmas Gifts
Creating a list is essential for budget-friendly and stress-free Christmas shopping.
This prevents you from forgetting someone important by intuitively documenting all the people you intend to get gifts for. Also, allows for the clear allocation of your total Christmas budget, preventing overspending on some individuals and under-spending on others.
If you aim to economize, consider the 4-gift rule: something they want, something they need, something to wear, and something to read. This method provides thoughtful gifts for children while maintaining a manageable budget.
More importantly, a well-planned list significantly reduces the time spent shopping and aids in buying gifts early before the holiday rush begins.
Expert Tip: Don’t forget to consider items like stocking stuffers, last-minute gifts, or teacher’s gifts, and the cost of extra food for holiday gatherings.
Step 3: Prioritize Your Spending
Prioritizing where to spend money relative to your financial goals is crucial to achieving long-term financial stability and health. It ensures that your money is allocated effectively, giving priority to necessities and matters that directly support your objectives.
This practice can also prevent unnecessary expenditures and helps in averting serious overspending, especially during high-spending periods like the Christmas season.
Thus, you will need to prioritize your Christmas budget before the festive season. It helps prevent overspending and keeps you debt-free.
Step 4: Limit Your Christmas Spending
First, it is important to abandon the notion of a “perfect Christmas” and focus on enjoying the holiday within your budget.
You can even educate your family members about the concept of holiday budgeting and involve them in your planning process.
Consider proposing less expensive alternatives to traditional gift-giving within your extended family such as handmade or recycled gifts, or conducting a white elephant exchange with budget-friendly novelty items.
Don’t overlook smaller gifting costs that can accumulate, like Christmas stockings – instead fill them with practical, affordable items that your family needs.
Save money on wrapping supplies by using items readily available at home like newspaper or butcher paper and involve the kids in a fun, cost-saving activity by having them create homemade gift tags.
Remember, sticking to your budget doesn’t mean letting go of the Christmas spirit. It’s about celebrating responsibly and starting the New Year without financial stress.
Step 5: Ignore Sales and Keep it Simple
Sales, sales, sales – the deal is too good to pass up!
Here are key ways to overcome this common dilemma.
Resist impulsive purchases compelled by sales, and stick strictly to your shopping list.
Pause before purchasing an item not on your list, consider the necessity.
Keep emotions in check, they run our shopping decisions.
Conquer emotional spending, stay true to your budget.
Discourage additional spending once your list is fulfilled and the budget exhausted.
Remember that it’s better to focus on affordable presents rather than seeking the perfect, but expensive, gift.
Step 6: Shop for Christmas Gifts Early
Start early. Begin watching for sales on items from your Christmas gift list way before the season’s rush.
Begin monitoring for sales early, especially during holidays that precede Christmas, to stretch your budget further.
Make use of Black Friday and Cyber Monday. They provide excellent opportunities to snag deals on your gifts.
Expert Tip: Remember to stick to your list. If it isn’t on your list, pass it up. It’s challenging but keeps your budget in check.
Step 7: Reuse and Recycle Holiday Decorations
Start by taking stock of items in your house. Don’t limit yourself to traditional decorations—choose a color theme and scan your home for items that fit and can be repurposed.
Use the resources outdoors. Pine branches, pine cones, mistletoe, and holly can be fashioned into decorations from nature’s catalog.
Even consider trading decorations with friends or family. This can bring a new look to your home without the need for new purchases.
Get creative with items from dollar stores that can be combined to appear high-end and save costs.
How to buy gifts for Christmas on a budget?
Maintaining a budget doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy giving gifts this Christmas.
Use these gift guides to help you out:
Remember, the joy is in the giving, not in the cost of the gift.
Time to Create Your Holiday Budget and Make it Memorable
Regardless of your financial situation and the extent of your holiday plans, this guide will help you maintain financial stability while fully embracing the Christmas spirit.
By setting aside a prescribed sum for your holiday expenses, you’re able to enjoy the season without the stress of unexpected expenditures or financial shocks after the holiday haze has cleared.
Celebrating Christmas on a budget doesn’t mean skipping the fun or the warmth.
With just a dash of creativity and thoughtful planning, you can make the yuletide season enjoyable and meaningful without breaking the bank.
Use the festive tips provided and start planning your budget-friendly Christmas now. Remember, the true essence of Christmas isn’t in extravagant spending—it’s about love, joy, and spending quality time with those who really matter to you.
Don’t forget to access a free printable worksheet for your customized holiday budget.
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