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June 10, 2023 by Brett Tams

Don’t get us wrong; we love PayPal.

The OG payment app has been around since 1998 and still manages to offer an excellent jack-of-all-trades experience. You can send money to friends, handle payments as a business, and even earn 5% back on PayPal purchases through certain rewards cards.

But 24 years is a long time to let competitors catch up. And while none have managed to topple the titan, contenders like Venmo, Wise, Payoneer, Zelle, and Cash App have gained serious ground by offering a better experience for certain users. Some let freelancers get paid with fewer fees. Others let you pay your friends overseas in their currency of choice. And one is perfect for sending payments to people who don’t have any payment apps installed (e.g., your parents or grandparents).

So which payment app is best for what? And most importantly, which is best for you?

Let’s investigate the 10 best alternatives to PayPal.

What’s Ahead:

PayPal alternatives overview

Venmo: Best for paying friends
Wise: Best for international transfers and currency conversions
Google Pay: Best for sending money through Gmail
Payoneer: Best for receiving online payments as a freelancer
Square: Best for receiving in-person payments as a freelancer/small business owner
Stripe: Best for receiving online payments as a small business owner
ProPay: Best for receiving offline payments as a freelancer/small business owner
Zelle: Best for sending money to people who don’t use payment apps
Cash App: Best for converting received payments into hard cash
Apple Pay: Best for sending, receiving, and paying at the register for iPhones and Apple Watches

Venmo

Fees for personal use: 3% credit card processing fee
Fees for business use: 9% merchant fee plus 10 cents per transaction; Venmo tax applies to all transactions marked “goods and services”

Venmo is so widespread these days that “Do you have Venmo?” has become the new “Cash is king.”

Even though Venmo is technically a subsidiary of PayPal, the numbers show that the former is now nearly as popular as its big brother. PayPal handled a total of $330 billion in transactions in 2021, while Venmo handled $230 billion — up a staggering 44% from the previous year.

And there’s a reason why so many people use Venmo as their go-to payment app: it’s simple, safe, and reliable. Transfers are free, payments to friends and family are free, and the app even has a built-in “newsfeed” showing who among your friends is paying whom for what. There was even a time when Venmo showed you the precise amounts they were paying for rent, food, and more, but naturally that TMI feature was retired.

While popular, Venmo isn’t perfect. It takes between one and three days to withdraw your Venmo funds to your bank account, or you can pay a 1% instant transfer fee. Plus, if you use it to invoice clients, there’s no “tip” option on their end — they have to manually initiate a separate payment.

There are also a few default settings I’d strongly recommend you change if you download Venmo.

Settings > PIN code and biometric lock. Set a 4-digit PIN so that if someone borrows or steals your phone, they can’t Venmo themselves the maximum $3,000 (happens more often than you’d think).
Settings > Privacy > Private. Unless you really want your entire friends list to see who you’re paying and for what, I see no reason to broadcast this sensitive data. Turn it off.

Pros and cons aside, Venmo is so popular that someone’s bound to ask you to use it. Luckily, once you succumb to peer pressure, you have a rock-solid PayPal alternative waiting for you.

Get Venmo for iOS or Android.

Wise

Fees for personal use: Sending rates from 0.41%; conversion rates from 0.41%
Fees for business use: Same as personal, plus a $31 account setup fee

There are plenty of apps to help you split the cost of a pizza with your buddies, but what about your international friends? Wise, formerly TransferWise, helps with that. You can send money to consumers in 51 countries, with new currencies added on an ongoing basis.

Wise is custom-built for any international payment or money transfer you want to make. I just have to enter how much I want to send in USD, then choose the currency of the receiving party. Right there, it shows how much I’ll pay for a monthly fee. There are bank fees and Wise fees, but they are minimal.

To send $100 USD to Europe using Wise’s personal account, I’d pay $0.16 in bank/debit card fees, plus a $0.96 Wise fee. Compare that to $5 per transaction fee for a personal international bank transfer with PayPal payments. That alone makes this perhaps the best PayPal alternative around.

Wise business members pay a fixed fee of $1.40 to send money. PayPal, in contrast, charges a 1.50% international business payments fee in addition to the standard fee (2.89% and up).

I’ve only been a Wise payment recipient, so I had to check out how paying someone works. It’s pretty simple – well, as simple as paying internationally ever is. You’ll need the email address, full legal name, and mailing address of the person. You’ll also need the International Bank Account Number (IBAN) of the recipient, as well as the type of account it is and the name and address of that bank.

The business side of Wise has some advanced features, including invoicing and compatibility with Stripe. You’ll also pay a one-time $31 fee to set up your account for international banking.

Get Wise for iOS or Android.

Google Pay

Fees for personal use: 9% credit card processing fee
Fees for business use: 9% merchant fee plus $0.30 per transaction for transactions under $3,000. Rate drops to 2.5% for transactions above $3,000; 2.2% for $10,000+; and 1.9% for $100,000+.

Google Pay allows you to send money from your bank account or GoogleWallet through Gmail for free. Just look for the $ symbol when you’re composing an email and input the amount of money you want to send. If you’re like me, you already do most of your communication through Gmail, so this may boost Google Pay to the top of your list.

Signing up for Google Pay is easy if you use your Google account for most of your business interactions. You just have to download the app and add your phone number. Google automatically pulls in all your frequent contacts.

The interface with Google Pay is not all too different from Venmo’s. You just choose a name from your contacts and input the amount you want to pay. You can also add a note.

One feature I like with Google Pay is that you can easily split payments with friends. Just tap on “Split with Friends” from the Pay screen and choose the friends from your contacts. There’s also a Scan QR Code feature that will make it easy to pay a business that accepts Google Pay.

Speaking of business use, Google Pay has the same weakness Venmo does when it comes to paying vendors. You’ll have to figure out the tip and add it to what you’re paying. But these apps are designed to keep things as simple as possible, so that’s one unfortunate by-product.

Get Google Pay for iOS or Android.

Payoneer

Fees for personal use: N/A
Fees for business use: $0 for payments from other Payoneer customers; 3% credit card processing fee; 1% ACH debit fee; marketplace fees (Network, Fiverr, et al) vary by marketplace; 0% to 1% receiving account fee

Payoneer is an online payment system and peer-to-peer payment solution that allows you to transfer money to anyone anywhere in the world, in addition to making purchases. It provides you with a pre-paid Mastercard that you can use anywhere Mastercard is accepted.

As a freelancer, I’m familiar with Payoneer through sites like Upwork. The service is useful, but if you’re not a freelancer, there are better options. Professionally, what I like about it is that you can send payment requests to clients and they can pay you directly through the app.

Payoneer is another great option for freelancers who are crossing international borders with their work. You’ll pay no fees on the money your clients send to you, and if you send money, there are no fees as long as the recipient is a Payoneer member. Otherwise, you’ll pay 3% for a credit card payment and 1% on ACH transfers.

But, chances are, if you’re using Payoneer, you’ve encountered it on one of the many platforms that use it. Upwork is where I’ve seen it, but it’s also a payment option on Fiverr, Wish, and Airbnb, among many others. If you pay for products and services on sites like that, a Payoneer account for personal use could come in handy, but otherwise, it’s mostly for freelancers and small business owners.

Get Payoneer for iOS or Android.

Square

Fees for personal use: N/A
Fees for business use: First card reader is free; 2.6% credit card processing fee plus $0.10 per transaction; 3.5% plus $0.15 fee for payments that are manually keyed in

Not every in-person business operates in a storefront with a cash register. Square helps with that, equipping small business owners and freelancers with a way to easily swipe a card. The reader attaches to a phone or tablet, allowing you to accept payments anywhere.

I made the mistake of not using Square when I had an in-person event where I needed to accept cards a few years ago. I used the PayPal reader because I figured I already had an account so it would be easier. The swiper didn’t work, so I had to manually enter every single credit card. It was a pain.

For the next event, I ordered a Square reader and never looked back. It works every time, which comes in handy when you have a line of customers holding credit cards. Fees vary from 2.6% + $0.10 for swiped cards to 3.5% + $0.15 for manually keyed transactions, so while it might come in handy to be able to swipe your buddy’s credit card to pay you back for dinner, one of the apps built for personal payments will likely be better for that.

But Square isn’t just for taking in-person payments on the go. You can use it as a one-stop shop for all your business’s sales. You can send invoices directly from the dashboard, set up gift cards that you sell directly through their site, and even take sales on your website using their platform.

What I like about Square, though, is that you can see, at a glance, your total daily sales. If you’re regularly collecting money from customers — in person or online — having this easy access to your progress comes in handy.

Is it for personal use? Not really. You could swipe your friends’ cards using the reader, but the fees will cut into whatever you’re taking.

Get Square for iOS or Android.

Stripe

Fees for personal use: N/A
Fees for business use: First card reader is $59; 2.9% credit card processing fee plus $0.30 per transaction; 3.4% plus $0.30 fee for payments that are manually keyed in; 0.8% fee for ACH transfers

Another option geared toward the needs of small businesses is Stripe. The payment platform can be integrated with your online store or used separately by directing customers to pay you there.

Stripe is for business. You could use it to send money to friends, but the fees make it cost-prohibitive. Fees start at 2.9% + $0.30 for each successful card charge. You can also accept international transactions, with an additional 1% fee added to each transaction.

Compared to its direct competitor Square, Stripe has higher fees but better tools for online integration. If you’re swiping customer credit cards in-person, use Square. If you accept most payments online and want to offer options like recurring billing and subscriptions, use Stripe.

I’ve used Stripe to accept payments from clients, and I loved the easy sign-up process. They do require identity verification, but all I had to do was snap a photo of my driver’s license and set up two-factor authentication to start accepting payments.

What I like most about Stripe is the dashboard. When you log in, you can see, at a glance, how much you’ve made today, as well as your financial activity over the past seven days. You can also see any disputes customers have filed on previous charges.

Yes, you can send invoices using Stripe, and that’s how I get paid for what I do. But where Stripe really shines is in its API. You can easily add Stripe to your website to start taking payments, and, in fact, if you use one of the top web hosting services, you probably see Stripe as an option when you’re setting up your e-commerce store.

Stripe also has terminals and mobile payment options. You don’t need a card reader to accept in-person payments — simply hold the card in front of your phone and the camera will capture the information you need. If you regularly take payments on the go, it’s worth considering.

Get Stripe for iOS or Android.

ProPay

Fees for personal use: N/A
Fees for business use: $39.95 signup fee; $39.95 annual renewal fee; 2.60% credit card processing fee; 3.55% fee for payments that are manually keyed in; $0.35 bank transfer fee

ProPay offers payment processing tools for businesses of all kinds. Whether your business is small, on the road, or global, they can work with you.

ProPay is for the business that’s serious about accepting payments on the go. You can swipe cards using the ProPay JAK™ card reader. If you aren’t near your card reader, you can manually input the information. You can also opt to securely save a customer’s payment information to make things go more quickly the next time they buy from you.

One thing I love about ProPay is that it works even if you are offline. I’ve sold items at libraries, book fairs, craft fairs, and even in the parking lot after an event. You aren’t guaranteed to have Wi-Fi or even cellular connectivity at all times, and this app comes in handy for that. The transaction is logged the next time you go online.

For personal payments, this is another app that won’t really help you much. But if you’re a freelancer or work in direct marketing, this is a great app for processing payments.

As for fees, they depend on the type of card being used and the account you have. Rates start at 2.40% for swiped transactions. The complete rate chart is posted here.

Get ProPay for iOS or Android.

Zelle

Fees for personal use: None
Fees for business use: None (though there are no business-specific features)

You may already know Zelle as “the payment app my bank wants me to use.”

That’s because while competitors like PayPal and Vemno were marketing themselves to businesses and individuals respectively, Zelle was chatting up the banks. As a result of all that relationship-building, Zelle now interfaces with over 1,000 banks and banking apps worldwide, making it extremely easy to send and receive money directly through your banking dashboard.

The other benefit of using Zelle is it makes it way easier to send money to people who don’t use payment apps at all. For example, let’s say I wanted to send $200 to my grandparents to help them pay for a new fridge. If I said to them, “Do you have Venmo or Cash App?” they’d probably look at me like I was speaking a foreign language.

I don’t want to stress them out with the prospect of downloading an app (or buying a smartphone), so I’ll just send it via Zelle. They’ll receive an email from Zelle that shows them step-by-step instructions on how to enroll and put the money in their account, no apps required.

The other benefit to Zelle is simplicity. You simply send and receive money with no fees ever. That’s it. There are no newsfeeds, social features, nada. And frankly, the only reason I don’t recommend Zelle over Venmo is because the latter is just more recognizable.

Get Zelle for iOS or Android.

Cash App

Fees for personal use: 3% credit card processing fee; 0.5% to 1.75% instant transfer fee ($0.25 minimum); $2 ATM withdrawal fee with Cash Card
Fees for business use: 2.75% transaction fee

Like Venmo, Cash App is another one of those payment apps that everyone’s heard of, and everyone uses. It’s extremely simple, with a no-frills dashboard and no fees for personal use, and for better or worse it lacks the social features of Venmo.

At first glance, Cash App seems to be the Paris Hilton of payment apps: popular just because it’s popular. There’s no option to tip contractors, not much to appeal to business owners, and until you verify your personal information, you’re capped at sending $1,000 every 30 days.

Pretty soon, Cash App’s initial value proposition — barebones simplicity — may start to feel limiting when you see competitors offering compelling features like bank dashboard integration, currency conversions, and free credit card readers.

Thankfully, Cash App starts making way more sense when you learn about the Cash Card. The Cash Card is a debit card linked to your Cash App balance that lets you withdraw your funds from any ATM for a $2 fee.

That’s a big deal for folks who want their cash instantly, since the alternative is to:

Initiate an instant transfer for a fee ranging from 1% to 3%
Find an in-network ATM, or pay out-of-network ATM fees of ~2.5%

Let’s say you receive a $300 payment and want to convert it into cash. With Cash App, the total fee would be $2 or 0.67%. With another app, you could pay up to 5.5% or $18.33 in fees alone, plus having to wait up to 30 minutes for the “instant” transfer to your bank account.

True to its name, Cash App is the best payment app for converting received payments you receive into cold, hard cash.

Get Cash App for iOS or Android.

Apple Pay

Fees for personal use: 5% instant transfer fee (min. $0.25, max $15)
Fees for business use: No additional fees for merchants (though standard credit card issuer fees may apply)

Apple Pay offers more than just another way to send and receive money from friends. The app will also let you securely store all your credit and debit cards in a neat-looking virtual stack. Then, when you reach the register, you can just pull up the card you want to use, hover your phone near the payment terminal, and wait for payment to clear. No need to fiddle with your wallet or let your card out of your sight!

Apple Pay also works with Apple Watch, so you can simply pull up your card there and hold your wrist over the payment terminal until payment clears, signaled by a gentle tap from your watch.

For online stores and in-app purchases, you’ve probably noticed that Apple Pay isn’t quite as widely accepted as PayPal, but it’s getting there. Apple boasts that as of late 2022, over 85% of U.S.-based retailers accept Apple Pay — even vending machines and taxis.

As you might expect, Apple Pay is a perk reserved for iOS users only. In fact, it’s one of the apps that comes factory-installed on Apple devices. At least Android users like me still get Google Pay.

Get Apple Pay for iOS.

Benefits of online payment apps

First, it can help to take a look at the overall features of online payment apps. Online payment apps make it easy for a business of any size to collect money from customers. Peer-to-peer payment apps make it easy to transfer money to your friends.

Here are some benefits to consider:

Easily pay friends and family members
Transfer funds from your bank account to someone else’s with a few clicks
Set up recurring payments to friends or family members
Avoid carrying cash around with you
Skip the trip to the ATM before you go out with friends
Accept secure payments for products or services on your small business website
Set up a Point Of Sale system in a brick-and-mortar business using a tablet
Accept payments on the go using a card swiper
Provide an alternative to personal checks, which can be risky

Some of these won’t appeal to you, while others will. By looking through all the various features that are available, you can start to narrow down what you’re looking for in a payment app.

Features to look for in a payment app

As you’re researching payment apps, there are some features to consider. You may not even realize you can do some of these things using a payment app until you see one offering it.

Fees. Of course, we’d all love for everything to be fee free, but we know there’s a cost associated with some financial transactions. I look for an app that at least has a “friends” option, letting me send money without fees to people I know personally. Often you’ll have to link up a checking account to do this, though, as credit card-based transfers will typically incur a fee.
Social feeds. This isn’t something I look for, but with peer-to-peer payments, some find social updates valuable. When you pay your buddy for your half of those summer concert tickets, this lets all your other friends know about it.
Security. Yes, the verification process can be a pain with some of these apps, but I like it. It means that the platform takes security very seriously, which boosts my confidence that my financial data is safe with them.
Send to email. Some peer-to-peer payment platforms let you send email to someone else using an email address or information from your contacts list. You can even send money within some email and messenger apps with just a tap on the screen. I found this comes in handy when you’re interacting with someone about upcoming plans. You can submit your share of the funds within the same message string to make sure the other person sees it.
All-in-one functionality. Some apps combine the best of peer-to-peer and online payments, letting you pay using the same app. You’ll need to identify which businesses accept payment that way, but it can be a handy way to manage your budget.
Expand payment options. Businesses face the ongoing issue of keeping things as convenient as possible for customers. The more payment options you can offer, the less likely you’ll lose customers who are limited in how they can pay.
International payments. The internet has opened businesses up to reach out to an international customer base. Being able to accept payments across multiple currencies with minimal fees is a huge bonus if you want to go global.
If your business uses financial software, check for integrations. Being able to import information about your transactions can help you stay on top of things while reducing your own workload.

Summary

The beauty of payment apps is that you don’t have to choose just one. You can have a half dozen installed on your phone, so long as you protect yourself with extra layers of security like PIN codes and biometric logins.

And knowing which payment app to use in which scenarios can save you time, stress, and hundreds on fees.

Apache is functioning normally

June 10, 2023 by Brett Tams

Ever forget your wallet when making a grocery store run? Or maybe you need to pay your friend back for those T-Swift concert tickets, but sending them cash is a hassle.

Payment apps take care of these problems by storing your payment cards and allowing you to quickly spend and send money without going to an ATM.

There are dozens of payment apps to choose from, so we’ve found the top 10 apps that offer low fees and flexibility for your payment needs.

What’s Ahead:

Overview: 10 best payment apps

Best for Google users: Google Pay
Best for Apple users: Apple Pay
Best for Samsung users: Samsung Pay
Best for low-fee transactions: PayPal
Best for sending money to other countries: Xoom
Best for sending small amounts of money: Venmo
Best for sending small amounts internationally: Western Union
Best for easy account setup: Cash App
Best for credit union members: Zelle
Best for Facebook and Instagram lovers: Meta Pay

Google Pay: Best for Google users

Compatible with: Android and iOS
Payment limits: You can send up to $5,000 in one transaction (or $500 if not verified). There is a $2,000 purchase limit, and $2,500 daily purchase maximum.
Cost to send money: No fees, but doesn’t allow you to use a credit card to send money to friends and family.

Google Pay is a simple-to-use app for Android and iOS users that offers quick payment options at checkout, both in stores and online. Google Pay is accepted at most digital checkout locations in grocery stores and other retail locations, making it an easy way to pay without pulling out your wallet.

Google pay can store your payment cards, such as debit and credit cards, and allows purchases via ACH or attached card without additional fees. Google Pay also allows you to send money to family and friends for free, though withdrawing funds to an attached debit card comes with a 1.5% fee (or $0.31, whichever is greater).

Google Pay is available for free to download and it directly integrates with your Google account. This means you can sync your Google Pay account across multiple devices, including your phone, tablet, and computer (using Google Chrome).

Visit Google Pay to learn more.

Apple Pay: Best for Apple users

Compatible with: iOS
Payment limits: Up to $10,000 per message and $10,000 in a seven-day period.
Cost to send money: 1.5% fee for instant transfer withdrawals.

Apple Pay is a mobile payment app for iOS which allows you to make payments in stores and online, as well as send money to others. Apple Pay stores credit cards and debit cards, and also has a built-in wallet that can be used to make payments or transfers.

Apple Pay is connected to the Apple Cash service, which allows users to pay iMessage contacts directly through a message. Apple Pay can be used on iOS devices, Apple Watch, and on Mac computers.

There are no fees to send money to family and friends via bank account or debit card, but there is a 3% fee for payments made by credit card. And there is a fee charged for instant transfer withdrawals from your Apple Cash account balance. The fee is 1.5% of the transaction, with a minimum $0.25 charge, and maximum of $15.

Visit Apple Pay to learn more.

Samsung Pay: Best for Samsung users

Compatible with: Select Samsung devices
Payment limits: Lite limits receiving money to once per day. You can send money eight times per day, 10 times per week, or 15 times per month and total transactions cannot exceed $500. Limits can be raised by providing more personal information.
Cost to send money: Samsung states fees may apply but doesn’t divulge what those fees are, so watch closely.

Samsung Pay is a mobile app for select Samsung devices that offers touch-free checkout in stores. Samsung Pay is now part of Samsung Wallet, which can store your payment cards, such as debit and credit cards, as well as store loyalty cards and even gift cards.

Samsung Pay also offers a rewards portal, giving users cash back for shopping through the Samsung Pay app. The app is available for free to download on select Samsung devices and does require a Samsung account to use. But the wallet will sync between your Samsung devices, keeping your payment options available on all of them.

To send money to friends and family you will also need a Samsung Pay Cash Account. There are two plan levels, lite and full.

Visit Samsung Pay to learn more.

PayPal: Best for low-fee transactions

Compatible with: Android, iOS
Payment limits: No limits on total money you can send from your verified account. Up to $60,000 in a single transaction, but may be limited to $10,000.
Cost to send money: If paying with a credit card, debit card, or PayPal credit you pay 2.9% plus a fixed fee. 1.75% for instant transfers ($0.25 min, $25 max).

PayPal is one of the original peer-to-peer payment apps, offering direct transfers from your debit card or bank account to family and friends for free. PayPal is also available with merchant accounts, allowing businesses to accept payments and manage payments to employees and contractors.

PayPal offers unlimited transfers to verified accounts. You can send up to $60,000 in a single transaction, but you may be limited to $10,000. There may also be additional verification needed on larger transactions.

Fun fact: I bought a used car by transferring funds through PayPal. It only took a few days, but additional verification was needed.

PayPal is available on most iOS and Android devices and is free to download. There are fees for paying with a credit card (2.9% plus a fixed fee), or for business payments. And PayPal also charges for instant transfer withdrawals to your bank account, charging 1.75% (minimum $0.25, maximum $25).

Visit PayPal to learn more.

Xoom: Best for sending money to other countries

Compatible with: Android, iOS
Payment limits: Initial limits are $2,999 in 24 hours, $6,000 in 30 days, and $9,999 in 180 days. Can increase limits by giving Xoom more personal information.
Cost to send money: Cost varies depending on which country you’re sending money to.

Xoom is an international money transfer service that is a subsidiary of PayPal. Xoom supports over 160 countries around the globe and is available in 14 languages. Xoom users pay low exchange rates to send money internationally.

Xoom is a mobile app that is available on both Android and iOS devices. Users can deposit funds with a debit card or bank account, or use their PayPal account balance. Xoom also offers an international bill pay feature within the app.

Xoom charges fees based on the currency being sent to the country you are sending money to. Money can be sent to family or friends and arrives instantly in most cases, but some transfers might take two to four business days to complete.

Visit Xoom to learn more.

Venmo: Best for sending small amounts of money

Compatible with: Android, iOS
Payment limits: $299.99 weekly, but can be raised to $60,000 weekly with additional verification.
Cost to send money: $0 if purchasing from authorized merchants, 3% if paid by credit card, 1.75% fee to transfer Venmo balance out of Venmo ($0.25 min, up to $25 max).

Venmo is another PayPal subsidiary company and payment app that is ideal for smaller transfers between family and friends. But Venmo also offers merchant services, allowing you to checkout at online retailers using the app.

Venmo allows you to pay with your bank, debit card, credit card, or Venmo balance, and you can transfer up to $999.99 per week ($19,999.999 for verified accounts). There is a $5,000 limit per transfer.

Venmo charges a 3% fee for transfers using a credit card, but no fees for using your debit/bank account/Venmo balance. There are no fees for standard withdrawals from the account, but there is a fee of 1.75% (minimum $0.25 fee, maximum $25 fee) for instant transfer withdrawals.

Visit Venmo to learn more.

Western Union: Best for sending small amounts internationally

Compatible with: Android, iOS
Payment limits: $3,000 limit per transaction. Can be raised to $50,000 by providing additional information.
Cost to send money: Varies based on currency, amount, and location.

Western Union is a well-known money transfer company that now offers a digital payments app for sending smaller amounts. Users can send up to $500 daily through Western Union to over 200 countries around the globe.

The app is available on iOS or Android devices, and accounts can be funded via bank account, debit card, or credit card. Currency exchange rates are available in real-time within the app, and it also offers international bill pay as well. And you can send money directly through the Western Union mobile wallet to users in supported countries who also have the wallet installed.

Fees are charges based on the currency exchange rate, amount, transaction type, country of origin, and the country you are sending money to. There is a $3,000 limit for sending money, but this can be increased to $50,000 with additional verification.

Visit Western Union to learn more.

Cash App: Best for easy account setup

Compatible with: Android, iOS
Payment limits: Initial limit of $250 per transaction or seven-day period. Limits can be raised by providing more personal information.
Cost to send money: Free using debit card. 3% fee if sending by credit card. $2.50 ATM fee (can be waived if $300 in direct deposit per month).

Cash App is a simple-to-use payment app that allows you to open an account with just your phone number and a linked debit card. Cash App is owned by payments company Square, and allows users to pay via a user’s $Cashtag, phone number, or QR code. Cash App also supports international transfers between the U.S. and U.K. with no additional fees.

There are no fees to send and receive payments via debit card, credit card, or Cash App balance, and a 3% fee for using a credit card. There are also fees for instant withdrawals or ATM withdrawals. The instant withdrawal fee varies from 0.5% to 1.75% with a minimum fee of $0.25 per withdrawal. ATM fees are $2.50 per transaction, but are waived for users that receive $300 (or more) per month in direct deposit to Cash App on a monthly basis.

Cash App limits sending money to $250 per seven-day period, and receiving money to $1,000 per 30-day period. These transfer limits can be increased by providing more personal information, such as your date of birth and the last four digits of your Social Security number.

Visit CashApp to learn more.

Zelle: Best for credit union members

Compatible with: Depends on bank or credit union’s app
Payment limits: If your bank or credit union doesn’t offer Zelle, your limit is $500 per week. If they do, contact your bank or credit union for limits.
Cost to send money: Zelle doesn’t charge fees, but your bank or credit union may.

Zelle is not your typical payment app. It is directly linked to your credit union or banking app, and can be used to send payments for free.

Fun Fact: I use Zelle to pay my landlord every month.

Zelle does not charge fees, and is only used with a participating bank account, or directly with your debit card. You can pay family and friends if they have access to Zelle within their banking app, and transfer funds directly to them.

Zelle does not allow you to link or pay with credit cards, and all balances are stored directly within your bank account, and not on the Zelle platform. Payments are initially limited to $500 for Zelle users without a participating bank, but if you are using Zelle within your banking app, you will need to contact your bank about the payment limits.

Visit Zelle to learn more.

Compatible with: Android, iOS, but users must have a Facebook or Instagram account.
Payment limits: $2,000 for unverified users, $10,000 for verified users in a 30-day window.
Cost to send money: No fees, but you can only use a debit card or PayPal account to fund transfers.

Meta Pay offers no-fee money transfers using your debit card or PayPal. You can use Meta Pay within the Facebook app, the Facebook Messenger app, and through Instagram. Payments may take some time to arrive, though, as payments may not clear for up to five business days.

Meta Pay is integrated into the Facebook Marketplace, allowing you to check out with Meta and make no-fee payments quickly. Meta Pay is also being integrated into other online retail shops, allowing you to pay by logging in with your Facebook or Instagram account.

You cannot connect a credit card directly, but Meta Pay does integrate with PayPal, which allows you to pay with a card. Payments are limited to $2,000 for unverified accounts, and up-to $10,000 for verified accounts within a 30-day window.

Visit Meta Pay to learn more.

What are payment apps?

Payment apps allow you to make payments using your phone

These apps can make paying at the store easier if you’re always fumbling through your bag trying to find the right card to pay with. Payment apps generally allow you to link your credit cards or bank accounts to the app. Then, you can make payments directly from the app without having your credit card, debit card or checks present.

Depending on the app you download and your phone, you may be able to pay by tapping your phone at a point of sale rather than swiping a credit card. Other payment apps or phones could allow you to pay by displaying a code that the cashier can scan.

Payment apps allow you to send money to friends and family

The apps generally allow you to send money to an email address or a phone number but other apps let you send money to your friends through social media, too.

It’s important that you look into the details of how payment apps work. Most payment apps allow you to make and receive payments for free if you’re using a bank account or an in app balance. However, if you use a credit card, you may have to pay a fee to send or receive money.

Additionally, apps may charge other fees if you want to move the money out of your app account and into your bank account. Apps may also have limitations as to how much money you can send within a given day, week or month.

What to look for in a payment app

Compatibility

Not all payment apps work on all devices Some are iOS only (Apple Pay), while others offer limited compatibility with certain operating systems. Make sure the payment app your choose works with all of the devices you plan on using it with.

Fees

While many payment apps do not charge fees, there are caveats to each (they have to make money somehow, right?) Look for fees when sending money, especially if you are thinking of using a credit card. And make sure to select “family & friends” when sending money to avoid fees and tax implications.

Limits

If you are planning to use a payment app regularly, make sure you know the limits. While some allow you to send $10,000 or more, some have much smaller payment limits. And the limits on these apps are typically confined to a window of time, such as 7 days or 30 days. Understanding the limits can help you choose the best app for your personal needs.

Security

While most payment apps offer encrypted payments and don’t store your payment information directly, it’s important to find an app that publishes security details publicly. This helps ensure your bank accounts and credit cards are stored safely. Also, only use apps that offer pin numbers or biometric access controls, further protecting your money if you accidentally lose your phone.

Summary

Payment apps make paying for your purchases or sending money to family & friends easier than it’s ever been. With direct connections to your accounts, you can quickly send money or “tap to pay” at your local store, without worrying about forgetting your wallet or having to withdraw cash.

But not all payment apps are created equal, and you’ll want to check into the fees and limits of each to make sure you don’t get ripped off. And, as always, keep your apps protected by enabling features like biometric access controls, two-factor authentication, and lock screen controls on your device.

Apache is functioning normally

June 10, 2023 by Brett Tams

As a personal finance blogger, I come across many great websites and apps. I always try to stay updated on the latest and greatest apps, money-saving companies, and more, as I believe they can help a person improve their financial situation.

Whether they make managing your money easier, allow you to make or save more money, simplify financial tasks, or something else, there are many benefits to all of the companies that I have listed below.

Every little bit counts and taking part in many of the websites or apps below may be things that you may not have tried yet. You never know how much money they may allow you to save or make, which may completely change how you think about your finances.

There are affiliate links in this blog post, but these are all products and services that I recommend. I wouldn’t put anything in a blog post that I haven’t verified and/or personally used.

Enjoy!

Have Digit trick you into saving more money.

I recommend looking into Digit if you want to trick yourself into saving more money. I have an account and it’s already helped me save a little more as well.

Digit is a free service that looks at your spending and transfers money to a savings account for you. Digit makes everything easy so that you can start saving money with very little effort.

Read Digit Review – A New Way To Save Money.

Related: Yotta Savings App Review – Win up to $10 million weekly by saving in an FDIC insured account

Use Bluehost to start a blog.

There are many ways a blog may be able to help you make and save money.

I know many people who have started a blog and are making thousands of dollars a month. Plus, it’s a lot of fun!

I now earn around $50,000 a month from my blog, and I expect that to double in 2016. I also travel full-time and am happier than ever!

If you are interested in starting a blog of your own, I created a tutorial that will help you start a blog of your own for cheap, starting at only $3.49 per month (this low price is only through my link and for a limited time) for blog hosting. In addition to the low pricing, you will receive a free blog domain (a $15 value) through my Bluehost link if you purchase at least 12 months of blog hosting.

Switch to Republic Wireless and save money on your cell phone.

If you have a cell phone, I recommend checking out Republic Wireless for a more affordable plan.

Republic Wireless is a service I’ve been using for over one year now and I’m still very pleased with the service. They have monthly cell phone plans as low as $10 per month. Yes, TEN DOLLARS!

Read Save Over $2,000 A Year With Republic Wireless Review.

Shop with Ebates and get cash back.

I had to include Ebates today in this blog post since the holidays are quickly approaching. Ebates is a great site to be using when you are shopping for the holidays.

Ebates allows you to earn free cash money for spending like how you normally would online. All you do is click on a store that you want to shop through (they have tons of stores such as Kohls, REI, Toys R Us, etc.), and shop just like how you normally would. Ebates makes a commission for referring you to the store you just shopped at, and they give you some of that money back as a thank you.

Plus, when you sign up through my link, you receive a free $10 gift card to Macys, Walmart, Target, or Kohls!

Read my Ebates review Use Ebates For Free Cash Back.

Plan your meals with $5 Meal Plan.

I joined $5 Meal Plan earlier this year in order to help me eat at home more and cut my food spending. It’s only $5 a month (the first four weeks are free too) and you get meal plans sent straight to you along with the exact shopping list you need in order to create the meals. The meals are easy to make, affordable, and delicious!

You can sign up for $5 Meal Plan here.

Take surveys for extra money.

Survey sites are great because they allow you to have the ability to make extra money while doing it all from the comfort of your home.

Some survey sites I recommend include:

It’s best to sign up for as many as you can as that way you can receive the most surveys and make the most money. These are all legitimate survey sites and occasionally you may receive free items to test out too.

Related: 12 Paid Survey Sites To Make $50+ Per Month

Get rewarded for being online.

These three sites are fairly similar so I’m grouping them all together.

Swagbucks is an easy way to earn Amazon gift cards with very little work. Swagbucks is just like using Google to do your online searches, except you get rewarded points called SB for the things you do through their website. You can also receive points for taking surveys, watching videos, and more. Then, when you have enough points, you can redeem them for cash, gift cards, and more. You’ll receive a free $5 bonus just for signing up through my link!

Another one you may be interested in related to this one is Nielsen Digital Voice. Digital Voice is a part of Nielsen, which I’m sure you’ve heard of. All you have to do is surf the web and you may be able to start earning money.

InboxDollars is the last of the online rewards websites that I recommend. You can earn cash by taking surveys, playing games, shopping online, searching the web, redeeming grocery coupons, and more. By signing up through my link, you will receive $5 for free just for signing up!

Related: 30 Best Money Making Apps

Improve your credit score with Credit Sesame.

With Credit Sesame, you can get your credit score for free, with no catch. Your credit score can impact whether or not you are approved for a loan, whether you are hired at certain jobs, your interest rate, and more. It’s relatively easy to raise your credit score, so you should start doing so today.

Read How Your Credit Score Affects Your Life + Credit Sesame Review.

Use Personal Capital to manage your finances better.

Personal Capital provides free financial software somewhat similar to Mint. Personal Capital is much more detailed, though, and due to that between the two I would definitely choose Personal Capital.

You can track your net worth, your cash flow, your portfolio, your investments, and more. Personal Capital pretty much picks up in the main area that Mint is not the greatest in, which is investment planning.

Read Personal Capital Review – An Easier Way To Manage Your Finances.

Save money by shopping with Flipp.

Flipp is a new app that I recently heard about. In case you’re not familiar with the app, Flipp is a free shopping app that brings the weekly shopping circular to your mobile device. With Flipp, shoppers can have seamless access to their favorite circulars and all the savings without lugging around paper or missing a good deal!

The app is also extremely easy to use. With Flipp’s shopping list feature, you can quickly find the best deals for your weekly essentials. Once you’re in the store, you can easily check off items from your list, which is built right into the app. This way you can pick up everything you need and also stick to your list.

You can download Flipp for Apple or Android.

Cancel cable and get a digital antenna.

We got rid of cable earlier this year and we even got rid of Netflix last month. Now, we just have a digital antenna and it’s all we need.

Digital antennas are very affordable and there is no recurring cost with them. You just buy the antenna once and you can get great quality TV and many channels for free.

You can buy a digital antenna here. That is the same exact one I have.

Read more at Cut Cable, Use A Digital Antenna, and Save Thousands.

Refinance your student loans with Credible.

If you have student loans, you may want to look into Credible.

I highly recommend Credible for student loan refinancing. You can lower the interest rate on your student loans significantly by using Credible which may help you shave thousands off your student loan bill over time.

Related: 20 Best Money Saving Apps

What other sites do you recommend so that a person can save or make more money?

Apache is functioning normally

June 10, 2023 by Brett Tams

We have been analyzing many of our expenses over the past several months. We experienced a little bit (okay, a lot) of lifestyle inflation as our income has increased.

There were many things we were wasting money on that we realized we didn’t need. We were being lazy, not saving as much as we should, paying for items that were a waste of money, and so on.

I don’t think I’m alone either. There are probably things you’re wasting your money on too.

Instead of wasting money, you could be putting your hard earned dollars towards your next vacation, a retirement fund, a college fund, or something else.

With this post I hope to help you analyze your expenses and see where you may be possibly wasting your money. I understand that there are plenty of reasons for why a person may spend money on some of the things below, however, the point is to see if YOU should be. Everyone is different and there is no right or wrong answer. I am a firm believer that money should be enjoyed and everyone enjoys spending their money on different things. However, that doesn’t mean you may not be wasting your money.

Below are seven things you may be spending too much money on.

1. Bottled water.

There’s a lot of waste that comes with purchasing bottled water. You are wasting money by buying water and the plastic that the water is in is a huge waste as well.

Yes, I understand there are times that come up where you may want water when you’re on the go. I also understand that some areas do not provide the cleanest water either. However, buying huge cases of small bottles of water is most likely not needed.

What you can do: You could buy refillable water containers and fill them up if the water you have access to is not the cleanest. In towns where the city water is no good, I have seen water fill up stations so that no plastic is wasted. You could also buy a water filter (this is the one we have) and clean your own water that way.

Related articles:

2. Expensive cell phones.

The average person spends a few hundred dollars on their cell phone bill each month and that adds up to a few thousand dollars each year. Is your cell phone really worth that much extra money or is it just a waste of money?

What you can do: There are many cheaper cell phone options out there such as Republic Wireless (plans start at just $5 a month), Ting, and so on. You could also not upgrade to the latest cell phone every time one comes out, downgrade your current plan, and more.

3. Food.

Okay, so food is a need, but what I’m talking about here is that you are probably spending too much money on it.

I’ve talked about our food spending a lot here on Making Sense of Cents. It’s an area where we’ve had a lot of problems. However, since traveling in the RV we have noticed a dramatic change in our food spending. We are eating in more than ever, eating even healthier, and more.

This is something we will probably have to actively work on for decades and probably even the rest of our lives.

I know there are many others who are experiencing the same food spending problems as well. It can be so easy to let your food spending get out of control, but I recommend you look at your food spending and see if you can cut down even further.

What you can do: To lower your food spending you could meal plan, shop sales, use coupons, cook from scratch, eat out less, prep your meals, and more.

I recommend you check out Personal Capital (a free service) if you are interested in gaining control of your financial situation. Personal Capital is very similar to Mint.com, but 100 times better as it allows you to gain control of your investment and retirement accounts, whereas Mint.com does not. Personal Capital allows you to aggregate your financial accounts so that you can easily see your financial situation, your cash flow, detailed graphs, and more. You can connect accounts such as your mortgage, bank accounts, credit card accounts, investment accounts, retirement accounts, and more, plus it’s FREE.

4. Cable.

Several months ago, we made the decision to eliminate our cable bill. We weren’t spending an outrageous amount on cable, but it did add up to several hundred dollars a year that we did not need to be wasting money on.

Plus, we haven’t missed cable one bit. I wish we would have eliminated it sooner! We now have Netflix and a digital antenna, however, we are thinking about eliminating Netflix and just having the digital antenna for free TV.

Sadly, the average person who has cable spends a lot more money than what we used to. I know many who spend anywhere from $100 to $300 a month on their cable bill and that is a significant expense in a person’s budget!

Related: 16 Alternatives To Cable TV That WILL Save You Money

What you can do: There are two main things you could do – either eliminate your cable or satellite bill completely or downgrade your package. You most likely do not need all of those extra channels anyways.

Related article: How To Live On One (Or 50% Of Your) Income

5. Extra warranties.

Everyone has been hit with warranties when they purchase a particular item. Sometimes they are useful, but I have come to realize that for the most part they are not and they are just a waste of money.

Personally, I have bought numerous extra warranties that were not honored because of one ridiculous excuse after another.

What you can do: Before you purchase your next warranty, you should analyze the agreement and see if it is worthwhile. In many cases, a warranty is not worth it because of strict rules, expensive deductibles, and more. Also, check to see what kind of free warranty already comes with the product. In many cases, it is enough.

6. Bank accounts with fees.

Sadly, I know a few who still pay monthly fees for their bank accounts and this is what I believe to be a huge waste of money. This is something I’ll never understand though as there are plenty of free bank accounts out there. You should never have to pay for ATM fees either.

What you can do: Shop around and see what banks and/or credit unions can offer you and your situation free banking. Trust me, they are out there!

7. Debt.

You are wasting your money if you have high-interest rate debt. This is due to interest charges you are paying that will just keep building up until you are able to pay it off.

If you have never done so, I want you to add up how much in interest you are paying each day and each month towards all of your debt. I bet you will be shocked!

What you can do: Yes, there are strategic reasons to keep debt, but if you do not have a strategic reason, then paying it off is most likely your best bet as interest charges can be a waste of money.

Do you spend money on any of the above? Why or why not? What do you think people are wasting money on?

If you are looking for other ways to save and/or make money, below are some things I recommend:

Start a blog. Blogging is how I make a living and just a few years ago I never thought it would be possible. I made over $150,000 last year by blogging and will make more than that in 2015. You can create your own blog here with my easy-to-use tutorial. You can start your blog for as low as $3.49 per month plus you get a free domain if you sign-up through my tutorial.
Sign up for a website like Ebates where you can earn CASH BACK for just spending like how you normally would online. The service is free too! Plus, when you sign up through my link, you also receive a free $10 gift card bonus to Macys, Walmart, Target, or Kohls!
Pay bills on time. This way you can avoid late fees.
Shop around for insurance. This includes health insurance, car insurance, life insurance, home insurance and so on. Insurance pricing can vary significantly from one company to the next.
Save money on food. I recently joined $5 Meal Plan in order to help me eat at home more and cut my food spending. It’s only $5 a month (the first four weeks are free too) and you get meal plans sent straight to you along with the exact shopping list you need in order to create the meals. This allows you to save time because you won’t have to meal plan anymore and it will save you money as well!
Fuel savings. Combine your car trips, drive more efficiently, get a fuel efficient car, etc.
Learn to have more frugal fun. We don’t spend anywhere near the same amount of money on entertainment as we used to. There are plenty of ways to have frugal fun.
Rent an extra room in your home. If you have extra space in your home, then you may want to rent it out. Read A Complete Guide To Renting A Room For Extra Money.
Answer surveys. One survey company I recommend is American Consumer Opinion. It’s free to join and free to use! You get paid to answer surveys and to test products. Pinecone Research is another company I use to complete surveys. They pay you for each survey you complete and they also occasionally send free products to review!
Learn how to avoid a Craigslist rental scam.
Use Swagbucks for your online searches. Swagbucks is something I don’t use as much, but I do occasionally earn Amazon gift cards with very little work. Swagbucks is just like using Google to do your online searches, except you get rewarded points called SB for the things you do through their website. Then, when you have enough points called SB, you can redeem them for cash, gift cards, and more. You’ll receive a free $5 bonus just for signing up today!
InboxDollars is an online rewards website I recommend. You can earn cash by taking surveys, playing games, shopping online, searching the web, redeeming grocery coupons, and more. Also, by signing up through my link, you will receive $5 for free!

Apache is functioning normally

June 9, 2023 by Brett Tams

The Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Credit Card, like all co-branded travel cards, is aimed at people who regularly fly with Southwest Airlines.

This is a premium travel card that offers 3,000 miles every year you have it, a discount on in-flight purchases, and two free EarlyBird Check-Ins each year.

This card also features a rewards structure, providing bonus miles on spending categories like transit, commuting, internet, cable, phone, and select streaming.

Another strength of this card is its 60,000-mile signup bonus — which is more than enough to get you a round-trip ticket or two!

If you’re thinking about adding the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Credit Card to your wallet, this guide will help you decide.

What’s Ahead:

Is the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Card for me?

The Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Card is designed for frequent flyers who like to travel with Southwest.

This means that if you’re a loyal Southwest customer or live near a Southwest hub, this card might be a great option for you. You’ll accelerate your earnings toward free flights and get some solid perks, such as two free EarlyBird Check-Ins each year.

If you aren’t a fan of Southwest or live in a place where Southwest isn’t as prevalent, this card likely won’t be as valuable as another airline or generic travel rewards credit card.

What makes this credit card different?

What makes the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Card different is its focus on Southwest Airlines.

Because it’s a co-branded card, it can offer unique benefits and perks that generic travel credit cards can’t. If you fly Southwest frequently, you’ll enjoy these perks.

This card also comes with a great signup bonus in the form of 60,000 bonus points plus a 30% off promo code when you spend $3,000 using the card within three months of opening your account.

You can also receive 10,000 Companion Pass qualifying points boost each year. With the Companion Pass, you can name one person, such as a spouse, partner, or friend, to be your companion. They can get a free ticket on any flight you book for yourself.

Generic travel cards don’t offer these specialized benefits and bonuses, so they likely won’t be as appealing to people who prefer to fly with Southwest.

Related: Best credit card sign up bonuses

What are my chances of getting approved?

As with any credit card, it’s important to think about whether you have a chance of qualifying before you apply. Applying for a new credit card drops your credit score by a few points, so you don’t want to lower your credit for no reason.

Chase, this Southwest credit card’s issuer, says that applicants require good credit to be eligible for the card. That means you should try to have a credit score of about 670 or higher before you apply.

All the details of the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Card

Credit cards are complicated, so before you sign up for one, you must make sure you understand how they work.

Rates and fees

The first thing to look at when you want to get a new credit card is how much the card will cost. Some cards, including travel cards, have annual fees, so you want to make sure the benefits and perks you’ll get cover the cost of having the card.

The Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Card charges $69 per year.

Perks and rewards

When it comes to travel cards, it’s all about the perks and rewards. A good travel card should let you earn your way toward free trips and help you travel more comfortably.

The Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Card does it all, with a great signup bonus, strong ongoing rewards, and some nice perks to use whenever you’re on a flight.

To start things off, you can earn 60,000 points plus a 30% off promo code when you spend $3,000 within your first three months of having the card.

After that, you’ll earn:

2 points for each dollar spent on Southwest purchases.
2 points for each dollar spent on Rapid Rewards® hotel and car rental partners.
2 points for each dollar spent on local transit and commuting, including rideshare.
2 points for each dollar spent on internet, cable, phone services, and select streaming services.
1 point for each dollar spent on all other purchases.

As for perks, cardholders will get a 3,000-point bonus on each card member anniversary. You can also use the card to get two free EarlyBird Check-Ins each year and 25% back on all inflight purchases.

You’ll also get all the typical credit card perks and benefits, including extended warranty protection and purchase protection.

Related: Best travel rewards cards

How to apply

The easiest way to apply for the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus card is to visit Chase’s website. Chase is the bank that Southwest partners with to offer this credit card.

To start the process, you’ll enter your personal info, including your:

Name.
Date of birth.
Mother’s maiden name.
Social Security number.
Address.

You’ll also need to provide your Southwest Rapid Rewards number if you have one. If you don’t, Chase will automatically set one up for you if you’re approved.

Finally, you’ll enter whether you rent or own, your monthly rent payment amount (if applicable), and your total annual income. Once you apply, Chase will review it and make a lending decision.

Typically, Chase can make a decision instantly. However, if the bank has trouble matching your information to your credit file or wants to take a closer look at some of the application details, you may have to wait for a decision in the mail.

Contact info

If you have issues with your Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus card, the best thing to do is reach out to Chase’s customer service.

You can contact Chase by signing in to your account and sending a secure message. You can also call credit card customer service at 1-800-432-3117 or contact @ChaseSupport on social media.

Other stuff you should know

One important thing to note about the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus card is that it’s not the only Southwest travel card available. There are two others: the Priority card and the Premier card.

The Plus is the entry-level card. It has the lowest annual fee but the fewest perks of the three Southwest cards.

The Premier card is the next level up from the Plus card. It has a higher annual fee at $99 but offers 3x points on all Southwest purchases, 6,000 points on every cardmember anniversary, and bonus qualifying points toward A-List status.

The Priority card is the top-end Southwest card. It has a $149 annual fee but offers 7,500 points on every card member anniversary and a $75 credit for Southwest travel each year. You’ll also receive four upgraded boardings each year.

Another thing to consider is that the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus card is designed for Southwest flyers. The rewards you earn are pretty inflexible and typically only good for Southwest flights. There are some gift card redemption options, but they aren’t a good value.

Alternative credit cards to the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Card Credit Card

If the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Card doesn’t seem like the right one for you, consider the following alternatives:

Southwest Priority: This card is useful for people who spend a lot on it and want to earn A-List status.
Southwest Premier: For frequent travelers, this card’s annual statement credit and points mostly cover the fee. You’ll also enjoy the upgraded boarding perk.
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card: This is another Chase card with far more flexible rewards, letting you redeem points for any travel.
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card: This card has a $95 annual fee and offers strong cash back rates on travel purchases.
American Express Gold: This is the mid-tier Membership Rewards card. It offers flexible rewards and a good earnings rate on food and travel.

How do you determine which credit card is right for you?

When you’re in the market for a new credit card, you should compare your options to find the right one. When making this comparison, consider the following factors:

Your ability to qualify. Card issuers design different cards for people with different credit profiles. Before you apply, make sure you have a good chance of qualifying for the card.
Fees. Some cards, especially travel cards, carry annual fees. Make sure you’re getting enough value from the card to make the fee worth paying.
Perks. Each card has a different set of perks and benefits. Make sure the perks you receive from the card are useful for you.
Rewards. Credit cards can offer cash back, points, miles, or other rewards. Make sure the rewards on offer align with your goals. It’s also important to think about their flexibility. You don’t want to be stuck with miles you can’t use. Also, consider the rate of earning those rewards, and look for cards that offer bonuses on the types of purchases you make most often.
Rates. In general, you should avoid carrying a credit card balance whenever possible. However, sometimes you have to carry a balance. When that happens, having a card with a low interest rate is good.

Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Card FAQ

Can I pool my Southwest miles with someone else’s?

No, Southwest does not offer any way to pool your rewards with another person.

What is the Southwest Companion Pass?

The Southwest Companion Pass is a perk you can earn through a credit card signup bonus or by taking a lot of flights in a single year. When you earn this pass, you can choose one other person to get a free ticket on every flight you book until the end of the calendar year after you earned it.

So, if you earn the pass in 2023, it will expire at the end of 2024. Some passes earned through promotions have different expiration dates.

Can I redeem my Southwest points for things other than flights?

Yes, you can redeem your Southwest points for gift cards to many popular retailers. However, redeeming points for flights is typically a better value.

Why choose the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Card?

With a strong signup bonus and some nice perks, the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Card is a good option for frequent Southwest fliers.

Given its reasonable price, substantial signup bonus, and valuable perks, we give the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Credit Card a 4 out of 5 rating.

If you think this is the right card for you, apply now.

Source: moneyunder30.com

Apache is functioning normally

June 9, 2023 by Brett Tams

Last Updated: May 27, 2023 BY Michelle Schroeder-Gardner – 47 Comments

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you. Please read my disclosure for more info.

If you’re anything like me, then you probably LOVE the holidays. I enjoy the decorations, the food, the people, and everything that goes along with it.

However, I know not to get ahead of myself even though I love the winter holidays an incredible amount. Holiday spending can quickly get out of hand and it’s quite easy to destroy a holiday budget.

According to the National Retail Federation, the average family in the U.S. spent $730 on the winter holidays in 2013 (it hovers around this amount most years).

Holiday spending can quickly add up when you are paying for food, gifts, decorations, and more. Plus, if you plan on traveling then your holiday spending may be much higher than this $730 amount.

This high price tag sometimes causes families to put their holiday spending on a credit card.

This is a big problem because that debt will eventually need to be paid off. Plus, interest and other finance charges may be added to this amount, which may cause the small amount you may have put on your credit card to inflate into a much bigger number. This can then impact your credit score, your credit history, your debt to income ratio, and more.

These are all things that no one wants to experience, especially since the holidays are not about the money you spend – they are about spending time with your loved ones.

While sticking to your holiday budget at times may seem impossible, I want you to know that you can enjoy the holidays and not go into holiday debt.

Continue reading below to read more about the several ways to lower your holiday spending and stick to your holiday budget.

Create and stick to a holiday budget.

Before you start your holiday spending, you should create a holiday budget. Creating a holiday budget will help you analyze your spending so that you can spend less money and not go into any holiday debt.

You should look at how much money you have set aside for the holidays, how much you estimate you will spend, and possibly even add a little buffer just in case you go over your holiday budget.

Some of the things you may need to budget for include:

Decorations
Food (such as if you are hosting or attending a holiday party)
Gifts and cards
Travel and transportation

Related: How To Live On One Income

Plan a group gift exchange.

Instead of swapping gifts with numerous people, you may want to do a gift exchange where everyone draws names and each person only has to get one person a gift. This can save a person a lot of money, plus more thought and time can go into each gift.

This is something that we do with my husband’s family. All the younger children still get gifts from everyone, but all of the adults just do an exchange. It makes it much easier and more enjoyable!

Earn extra money for your holiday spending.

You may want to look into ways to earn extra money for your holiday budget if you want to spend more money than you have saved.

There are many things you can do in order to earn extra money for your holiday spending. You could sell items from around your home, work additional hours at your job, find a part-time position (tons of places hire during the holidays!), freelance, and more.

Below are several posts that may help you find ways to make extra money for your holiday budget:

Shop early.

I know this might be a little difficult since it’s already November, but starting now is better than waiting until the last day.

I know some who start shopping almost a full year before the holiday they are celebrating. You may call them crazy, but I’m sure it saves them a lot of stress and money later.

The earlier you start shopping, the more money you are likely to save. This is because you won’t be in a rush to find what you need and you will be able to shop the sales as they come. When someone is low on time, they are more likely to buy items they may not need at a price that is higher than usual.

Find the best deals.

Prices can vary from store to store. Before you start any of your holiday spending, you may want to shop around and see what stores have the lowest pricing.

You can find the best deals by:

Shopping online. I like to shop online first. This way I don’t have to waste any gas driving around and I can save time by shopping at home as well. Amazon is definitely my favorite place to shop online.
Using a cash back website. I highly recommend using a cash back website (such as Ebates – signing up under my link will give you a free $10 gift card to a store of your choosing as well, such as Target), so that you can receive free cash back for the money you are already spending.
Finding coupon codes for the products you are buying. Before you buy something, type the store’s name plus coupon code into a search engine to see if any coupon codes will pop in. An example would be “Airbnb coupon codes.”
Buying discounted gift cards. There are many gift card companies online that sell “used” gift cards you can get for cheap. You could gift one of these or just do your shopping with them so that you are shopping on a discount.

Do you tend to stick to your holiday budget? How do you feel about holiday spending?

Apache is functioning normally

June 9, 2023 by Brett Tams

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.

I’m not really sure about this whole expensive holiday gift thing. I know it’s supposed to be a way of showing love and appreciation, but I think it is too much pressure. Why not give a cheap holiday gift that they will actually use?

Plus a lot of people struggle with finding a Christmas gift for their loved ones, regardless of price.

Some people say that the best gifts are homemade, but not always. I am going to show you 101+ of my favorite cheap but thoughtful Christmas gifts ideas for someone who is on a budget or does not want to spend too much money.

These cheap Christmas gift ideas are for everyone on your list, from the family member you don’t know what to get them to the coworkers who always complain about not getting anything.

You will find the best advice on how to find the perfect present without breaking your budget.

The holidays are right around the corner, and it is time to start thinking about those gift lists! The holidays are about spending time with those closest to you, for many Americans it can be exceedingly difficult to find a decent gift for those from your close circle.

Why Cheap Christmas Gift Ideas

I know that you’re looking for some great gift ideas this year and we have you covered: adults, teens, kids, fashionistas, athletes, teachers, plus so much more!

There are so many inexpensive Christmas gift ideas that it can be hard to know where to start. This article will help you find the perfect present for everyone this holiday season.

The price range will be cheap Christmas gifts under $10 or nice cheap gifts for Christmas under $20. Some items maybe a little bit more expensive, but well worth the extra cost based on the idea!

Find over 250 cheap last-minute Christmas gifts (delivered by Amazon) on this list that I know the recipient will love!

Cheap Christmas Gifts for Adults

Easy cheap Christmas gifts for adults are those that can be afforded by the budget-conscious and the best part is still are awesome gifts.

These gifts usually have a handmade flair or personal touch to them to reflect the recipient’s personality.

To find cheap Christmas gifts for coworkers, you can pick any present on this list.

DIY Jewelry: This is one of the best ways to make multiple gifts for cheap. You can make many types of homemade jewelry.
Mug with their name on it: Make them smile with a customized mug just for them!
Coloring Books: Coloring isn’t just for kids. Adult coloring books are extremely popular and inexpensive to pick up an adult coloring book and colored pencils.
Magazines Subscriptions: Some ideas include National Geographic or Smithsonian. Great way to find new inspiration and ideas.
A Photo Album of your Memories: This can be a physical or digital photo album. A simple way to portray your friendship and experiences together.
Journal: Write down thoughts, ideas, or quotes that they love in the journal. Pick up a plain journal at Target for $5-$10.
Stickers: Add a few stickers from your collection, some ribbon, and scrapbook papers to decorate it!
Movie Night: A movie night with popcorn and some of their favorite movies is a thoughtful, inexpensive gift that everyone will enjoy. Buy a streaming movie or pass to the local cinema.
Handmade Gifts: If you have a knack for the arts and crafts, making a handmade gift is not only thoughtful but also can be very inexpensive!
Coffee or tea from their favorite coffee shop: There’s nothing better than a cup of joe or tea to start the day off right.
A Bouquet of Flowers: Get a bag of those colorful hair ties, and tie them to the stems for an extra special touch!
Collage Frame: A collage frame can be used as a picture frame, or it can be used as a decoration on the wall.
Holiday Decor: This is an affordable and practical gift for someone who loves to decorate their home for the holidays.
DIY-ed Ornaments: Get creative with this craft and let their imagination run wild!
Homemade Treats: Who doesn’t love cookies, chocolates, or homemade baked goods? Even canned salsa or jelly make great gifts!
Stockings: With any number of crafts available to make-you can’t go wrong with a stocking full of goodies for the holidays.
Cookies: Bake up some of your favorite holiday cookies and package them in a festive container for a sweet treat. Perfect to host a cookie exchange as a fun experience!
Comic Books: It can be no surprise to some adults when they think of all the hard work that goes into creating a comic book and see the end product. What’s even more surprising is that more adults don’t try them.
Handmade Gifts from Kids: If your child loves to paint, draw, or make things with their hands-this is the perfect opportunity for them.

Cheap Christmas Gifts for Teens

Coming up with Christmas gift ideas for teens can be tough. Teens are often too old to play childish games like Monopoly or Jenga, yet they’re not quite ready for more grown-up games like Trivial Pursuit.

There are a lot of inexpensive gift ideas for teens from the mall, but teens often want something more personal and unique to show they are maturing.

If you are looking for cheap gifts for teens, you can try any of these present ideas.

Gift cards are always a huge hit with this age group! Double bonus if you can make it a fun way to spend some time together. Make sure that your teen is comfortable with this idea.

iPod Touch / iPhone / iPad Accessories: A new case, screen protector, and a few apps are always great. Whether it’s to show off or just something fun, this is a great idea.
Journal: This gift will help your teens reflect on the year and all of the good things that happened!
Fun Colors to Write With: The festive design on these pens will make teens want to use them all year round. Fun gel pens are wonderful gifts for all ages; they are inexpensive and come in a variety of colors.
Fashion Designer Scarf: This gift will help your teen express his or her individuality while also staying warm during the winter months.
Room Decorations: Checking out new colors and themes for the room is a fun way to spend some time together. Plus they may be ready for a change from their younger decor.
Makeup: Teens love makeup and skincare items, so make it their job to pick out a few new things they want.
Candles: Having a nice scent can help relax and soothe your teen before bedtime. These versatile gifts come in many shapes. It is also how teens feel more grown-up.
Hand-Painted Mug: Handpainted mugs are perfect for all the coffee and tea lovers in your house, and they are so easy to make! This can be an experience gift, too!
Handmade Jewelry: this is an affordable yet creative holiday present
Trendy Socks: These are always a great gift for anyone. Not only does it keep your feet warm, but it can be fashionable too!
iTunes Gift Card: Let them download a favorite song or album.
Movies: Movies are a great gift to give especially if it’s one of their favorites or they’ve been wanting to see it!
Clothing: The recipient will love getting some new clothes-especially if they’re trendy and stylish, or their favorite store has a sale going on that you know about.
Special Treat: A special treat is a great way to show someone that you care about them and appreciate all they do.

Cheap Christmas Gifts for Kids

Kids are the most precious gift of all. They’re also notoriously hard to buy inexpensive presents for – they normally want gifts that are outside your price range! Fortunately, these Christmas gifts will have your child smiling from ear-to-ear.

Cheap easy Christmas gifts for kids are especially not difficult to find and you have plenty of inexpensive gift ideas, – plus your bank account will thank you for it.

At the end of the day, kids don’t really care what it costs as long as they like it.

Stuffed Animals: Give them the gift of a new favorite toy that they can hug and take with them everywhere-just make sure to tuck in an extra battery for their new favorite toy.
Paper & Stickers: A package of paper and stickers is perfect for kids who love to create their own projects or write notes, letters, or holiday cards. This pack is also perfect for young ones who are just learning how to write.
Colored Pencils & Crayons: Colored pencils and crayons are a fun way to keep kids focused on their art. These pens will help them create original masterpieces.
Customized Shirts: A new shirt is a great way for kids to express their personality, and it can also be an easy outfit of the day solution when they’re running out the door.
Puzzles: Puzzles are a great way for kids to learn new skills and stay entertained on rainy days. They also make excellent stocking stuffers!
Ice Cream Variety Pack: A yummy variety pack of ice cream will make their day.
Play Doh: Kids love play doh, and it’s a great way to keep them entertained for hours! It also makes a great stocking stuffer.
Colorful Pens: Kids love to color, so give them the opportunity with some bright new pens! They’ll have fun for hours doodling on all their things.
Slime: Slime is all the rage right now, and kids can make their own with this kit.
Sippy Cups: Kids love sippy cups because they’re fun and easy to drink from! They also come in a variety of designs and colors.
Kitten: They will love this sweet little creature that they can cuddle up with in winter.
Fidget Toys: Fidget toys are a great way to keep kids entertained and focused with some fun. They come in a variety of colors and shapes, making them perfect for all ages!
Star Night Light: This was one of my daughter’s favorite gifts (even her older teen brother was jealous). Huge hit to light up the wall at nighttime.
Remote Controlled Car: A remote-controlled car is a great gift idea because it can be played indoors or outdoors. It also makes for hours of fun!
Make Your Own Soap Kit: This kit will allow your child to make their own soaps at home with some fun ingredients. They have a variety of colors and scents available which they can use to customize the soap for their own preference.
Board Games for Kids: Board games are a great way to keep entertained while bonding with their friends and family. They come in different levels of difficulty, making them perfect for all ages.
Nature Exploration Set: A nature exploration set will help to inspire your child’s curiosity and creativity. The kit includes a journal, binoculars, magnifying glass, and more!
NERF: NERF toys are classics for kids of all ages. They’re great to take on family vacations or just to play with friends.
Dolls: Dolls are a classic toy for girls and they come in all shapes and sizes. From Barbie to Baby Alive, there’s plenty of options available!
Spirograph: A Spirograph can keep kids entertained for hours. They design pictures with the help of an included pen and paper.
Rock Painting Kit: A rock painting kit will allow kids to express their creativity by decorating rocks.
Bead Kit: A beading kit is a great way to teach kids about colors and patterns. It also teaches patience as they work with the small beads
Sewing Kit: Sewing kits allow kids to create their own stuffed animals and clothes for themselves.
Drawstring Backpacks: Helpful to keep their stuff organized on outings, vacations, or events when the kids need to be entertained.

Kids love getting gifts, and these cheap Christmas gifts ideas are perfect for any child!

Best Cheap Gifts for the Foodie Cook

One of the most difficult parts about shopping for a gift is coming up with creative ideas.

This list is full of affordable gifts is perfect for that friend or family member who loves to cook and bake!

Here are some of the best cheap gifts for the foodie cook.

Charcuterie Board Set: This is the perfect gift for the foodie that loves to cook with meat. It provides an assortment of meats, cheeses, fruits, and bread in a beautiful wooden tray.
Mason Jar Set: This gift is perfect for a friend or family member who loves to cook. The set includes six pint-sized jars with lids and can be personalized with the recipient’s name.
Salt and Pepper Grinder: This set comes with salt and pepper grinders for the foodie who loves to cook.
Gourmet Spices: Spice up a friend’s cooking experience with this assortment of spices from around the world.
Frother: Perfect for milk frothing for coffee, lattle, milk shares, hot chocolates, and matcha powder. You need one of these and everyone else around you does too!
Mini Stand Mixer: This is a perfect gift for a friend who loves to cook and bake! The mixer comes with attachments such as a whisk, dough hook, and flat beater.
Fondue Pot: This pot is perfect for families that enjoy eating together! The set includes a fondue pot, forks, skewers, dippers, and dipping sauces.
Cookie Press: This press is perfect for a friend who loves to bake! The set includes a cookie press, dough sheet mold, rolling pin, and recipes.
Oven Mitts: You don’t want your foodie gift receipeint to burn their hands. Replace their worn-out oven mitts with one of these stylish oven mitts.
Hot Sauce Set: Every foodie needs some hot sauce in their fridge. This set includes 3 bottles of the hottest sauces around, plus a recipe book for beginners.
Spice Rub Set: Give your foodie friend the gift of spices especially if they love to grill or have a Traeger! This set includes salt, pepper, cumin, chili powder.
Teapot Set: This is for all those tea drinkers out there. This set includes a teapot and infuser ball.
Tea Bags: Add on to the teapot set and deliver a set of tea bags with a bunch of different flavors.
French Press: French press brewing prevents an over-extraction of flavors; the grounds only add flavor regardless of how little or how much coffee is steeped. Expand their coffee experience!
Coffee Grinder: This is for all those coffee drinkers out there who like to make their own custom blends.
Bamboo Cutting Board: Over time, we all have to replace our words cutting boards at some point. So, this makes a chop-worthy gift.
Tea Towels: These are great for drying dishes, wiping counters and so much more. Find a catchy saying they will love to display!
Sourdough Banneton Proofing Basket: If they are hooked on the sourdough trend, then they need one of these to elevate their breadmaking skills.
Bread Lame Scouring Tool: A must for anyone who makes sourdough breads!
Batter Bowl: This is a great kitchen tool for mixing batters, making pancakes, and more. It will be a welcome addition to the kitchen!
Flour Sifter: This is another one of those necessary tools in the kitchen.
Coffee Mug: For coffee lovers, this is a great gift idea!
Salt Cellar: This is a nice addition to the kitchen and it will hold those hard-to-reach salt and pepper.
Cheese Plane: This tool makes cutting cheese into perfect, uniform slices – making cooking and serving a breeze.
Saute Pan: This pan is great for frying, sautéing, and more! It’s perfect for the average home cook or budding chef.
Zester: This handy tool is perfect for adding flavor to dishes with just the slightest touch.
Meat Thermometer: This is a tool that can’t be beaten especially for the grill master. This one is by far the best on the market!.
Pizza Cutter: This is an essential kitchen tool for any pizza lover!
Ice cream scoop: This ice cream scoop is perfect for any ice-cream lover. It comes in 2 different sizes of scoops and they come in a variety of colors.
Cooking Class: Give them the gift of cooking skills-it’ll be something they can use for years to come!

Best Cheap Gifts for the Homebody

Holiday shopping can be a stressful time, but not to worry. Here are some great gifts for the person who has everything and doesn’t want anything.

Consider these cheap, homey gifts that will please any loved one or host.

Weighted Blanket: For those who love to cozy up with a blanket, this one might be the perfect weight and size for them.
Hot Cocoa Mix: This is an easy way to ensure that your loved ones have a delicious treat from their kitchen.
Wool Socks: This is a great item to have on hand for the winter months.
Tea Infuser: This one will help your loved ones in their journey of self-discovery.
Homemade Snow Globe: Grab a this snow globe kit and make your loved ones their own little winter wonderland.
House Shoes: A pair of these comfortable shoes will be something your loved ones can wear around the house.
Cozy Blanket: These blankets are made to keep you warm and cozy during those cold winter nights.
Popcorn Popper: This is a fun gift that they will all enjoy especially on movie night.
Jigsaw Puzzle: Give them a puzzle that will keep their mind sharp and occupied.
Board Games: More than likely they prefer to have people over to enjoy good old-fashion board games and a night of laughter with friends!
Comfy Pajamas: A new set of cozy pajamas is sure to be a hit with the kids.
Robe: A new robe is a great gift for those who love to lounge around in their comfiest clothes.

These are some Cheap Christmas Gift ideas for those who are on a budget!

Best Inexpensive Gift Ideas for Spa Lovers

The perfect gift for anyone who loves to pamper themselves is a spa gift card. Spa gift cards are the perfect present because it gives the recipient freedom over what they would like to do during their stay.

There are many different spa gift cards available on the market, so it is easy to find one that suits the recipient’s personality and budget.

If you can’t find a group of people to go in on this idea, then turn their home into a spa experience.

Bath Salts: These are perfect for the person who loves to relax and take baths. All they will need is a nice scented candle or bath bomb, their favorite book, and these salts to make themselves feel like royalty.
Candles: These are perfect for the person who loves to relax and read, or just has a nice smelling home. There are many different scents available so it is easy to find one that suits the recipient’s personality.
Aromatherapy: This gift idea is perfect for those who want an inexpensive yet thoughtful gift. There are many aromatherapy oils to choose from, but the two most popular would be lavender and peppermint
Diffuser: These are perfect for someone who enjoys a deep and restful sleep, as well as those who enjoy shut-eye at night to take away any stresses or worries. A few drops of these oils in a diffuser or humidifier will soothe the recipient and ease them into relaxation before bedtime.
Tea: This is perfect for the person who enjoys a good cup of tea. A nice box of loose leaf teas is sure to be appreciated and used for many, many years to come!
Cookies: This may seem like a typical and uninspired gift that most people would choose, but it is thoughtful and they will appreciate the thoughtfulness.
Scalp Massager: This is great for those with a sensitive scalp. It helps to soothe the skin and will leave them feeling relaxed
Shower Speaker: This is a great gift for someone whose favorite song isn’t Top 40. They will be able to listen to their music while they shower.
Manicure Dip Starter Kit: This is a great gift for those who love to paint their nails
Hyaluronic Acid: Help maintain the hydration of the outer layers of skin, which helps to improve its appearance.
Hair Mask: This is a great gift for someone who loves to pamper themselves, especially if they are in need of moisture.
Lip Sleeping Mask: A gentle overnight moisturizer for dry, sore lips.
Microfiber Hair Towel Wrap: This is a great gift for someone who spends a lot of time in the pool or at the beach. It is quick and easy to help dry your hair faster.
Handheld Massager: Seriously, this is the best gift ever. Plus the cost has been coming down each year.

Cheap Gift Ideas for the Fashionista

If you are looking for an affordable, fashionable gift idea that is also fun and creative then this list has something to offer you.

Here are some ideas for the fashionista on a budget.

Scarf: Scarves are always in style and can be found anywhere. You can get a nice one for only about $25, depending on the brand.
Tote bag: A tote bag is a necessity for school, the mall, and even just running errands around town. You can find them anywhere from $5-25 depending on what type you want.
Pandora Bracelet: The Pandora bracelet is a beautiful piece of jewelry that can be bought with any budget in mind, and it’s a great option for people who want to give something that will last. Great gift to add charms each year.
Earrings: Earrings can be a great gift for someone you know who is really into fashion. You can find them at the drugstore or even in some clothing stores, and they cost anywhere from $5-20.
Belt: A belt is great for someone who doesn’t have too many accessories, or if you just want to spice up an outfit with a new piece of jewelry.
Hair Clips: Hair clips are a great gift for someone who spends most of their time at home because you can clip them in your hair to keep it out of the way while you do chores. Also, great for those trendy messy up-dos!
Felt Hat: A felt hat can be a great gift for someone who goes to the beach a lot, or just likes wearing hats because it’s cold outside. They last longer than other types of material and they can be a really inexpensive gift.
Jewelry Dish: Find a small dish at the dollar store and decorate with paint or fabric to make it look pretty!
Re-gift Jewelry: Add jewelry from your old collection that you don’t wear anymore (maybe some old costume jewelry?).
Sunglasses: Sunglasses are one of the most popular Christmas gifts, and they can be found cheaply at many stores. I bought a pair for under $15!
Watch: Watches can be found at many stores for a cheap price. Watchmakers are competing to lower their prices as they try and go against the trend of cell phone watches, which is why you can find a nice watch for under $10.
Sweatshirt: A good sweatshirt is a woman’s best friend. It will keep you warm during the winter and can easily be dressed up or down depending on what you’re wearing-It doesn’t have to be too expensive either, with most stores having sales or clearance racks that are perfect for picking up gifts.
Nail Polish: The best thing about nail polish is that you can buy it in a lot of sizes, from the little bottles that are perfect for stocking stuffers to larger ones that come in packages of 5 or more. Great stocking stuffers!
Yoga Pants: We all know yoga pants are a girl’s best friend. But, y’all the prices of these yoga pants are amazing, and did I mention how many I have given as cheap gifts?!?!
Winter Gloves: Some people might think winter gloves are odd to put on a Christmas list, but they make such great stocking stuffers!
Shopping Bag: This is a great present for someone who likes to shop! I know what you’re thinking, “how do they not have one?”
A New Outfit: Even if the person you are buying for is not a fashionista, clothes still make great gifts. And if you know what their favorite style of clothing is then nows the time to indulge them in some new clothes!

Some suggestions are old and some are new, but all of them will be perfect for the person you want to give a gift to.

Cheap Gift Ideas for the Makeup Artist

Check out these cheap beauty Christmas gifts for the makeup artist on your list. These are great for anyone that has a budget of $10 or less.

Makeup: Find out what brands your friends, family members, or classmates like and buy them the makeup in that brand. You can find this information at their favorite retailers or by asking around to see which brands they wear.
Nail Polish: Buying nail polish as a gift is a great idea because you can buy them the exact color they want to wear and it’s usually not too expensive.
Perfume: If your budget is $10 or less, you can buy a nice perfume that smells great and it will be something they use often.
Bath Bomb: If you’re shopping for someone who needs to relax, then a bath bomb is the perfect gift.
Specialty Coffee Mug: You can find these for fairly cheap and they’re something that people will use every day so it’s great. Find a fun coffee mug with an artsy flair!
Lip Stain: Lip stains are a really popular product because they’re long-lasting and come in so many colors. This is perfect for someone who loves makeup!
Makeup Brushes: Any good makeup artist knows the quality of the brush makes a difference. You can find a decent brush at an affordable price!
Silicone Makeup Sponges: These are perfect for applying makeup evenly and providing coverage.
Reusable Beauty Products: For the eco-conscious, find plenty of reusable beauty products. You will be surprised at this list.

Gather all of these makeup supplies and put them together for a creative gift basket!

Cheap Gift Ideas for the Athlete

Sweating is gross, so this guide has come to help! It’s tough when you have an athlete in the family because they are always on the move.

Athletes will have to replace their equipment and clothing because of use.

Here are some nice, thoughtful gift ideas for the athlete on your list!

Water Bottle: Sometimes I feel like I can never have enough water bottles!
A pack of compression pants: I wear them for my sport because they help with the swelling and protect against injury.
New backpack: I use mine all of the time!
Headphones: These allow people to listen to their favorite music or podcast while getting the sweat on.
Full-zip fleece jacket: I love being able to bundle up when it gets cold! This is a thoughtful guide for the athlete on your list for before and after workouts.
Polarized Sunglasses: These help protect eyes from glare and add style to any outfit.
Music Subscription (ad free): This is a great gift for the athlete who loves music!
Yoga Mat: Yoga mats are great because they’re environmentally friendly and also come in a bunch of different colors. Sometimes it’s nice to be able to stretch out and do some poses on your own. Plus the experts say we should stretch every day.
Sports Watch: Preferably with stopwatch and alarm clock. THey need to time those tabata crossfit workouts.
Running Gloves: These are thoughtful gifts for someone who loves the outdoors and running.
Foam Roller: A great gift for the athlete who is looking for a little bit of extra relief.
Folding Bike: This is a thoughtful gift idea for someone who loves to bike ride but doesn’t have space for a bike. This one is more expensive, but a great idea to go in with others on!
Sports Massage Oil: This is a thoughtful gift for the runner, cyclist, or anyone who gets sore muscles. Pick a hand massager to go with it!
Camouflage Pillow: This is a great present for an outdoorsy person who has their head in the clouds.
Good Socks: Have you ever smelled the stinky socks?!?! Enough said.
Sports Tape: The runner in your life will need this present to keep them on the go.
Sports Bra: This is a great present for someone who participates in any activity that requires it! One that fits well and is made of quality materials. Plus an affordable price!
Fleece Headband: This is a great present for the runner in your life who also likes to wear their hair up when they’re not running.
Yoga Pants: This is a great present for someone who likes to keep their activities active. Or just wears yoga pants every single day to be trendy. No one needs to know why! These are my favorite brand.
Athletic Shorts: This is a great present for the person in your life who likes to wear their athletic shorts outside of working out. Plus, come on it’s not like they’re going to be wearing them over clothes so people would notice.
Resistance Bands: These are great for the person who likes to keep their workouts active, but doesn’t have a ton of space.
Light Set of Weights: Everyone needs to have some weight training as part of their workouts. Pick up three or five pound weights to help them reach their workout goals.
Armband for Phone: When you workout, you may want to keep your phone with you to track the steps or distance you worked out. This is an armband to keep your phone and simple enough to change your workout music.
Latest Fad Cookbook: In need of a great gift idea for the person in your life who likes to cook but always seems to have not-so-perfect dishes? This is perfect! Gift them this latest fad cookbook and they’ll be able to make all the popular, Instagram-worthy dishes that you see on TV.
Sneakers: Maybe you are lucky enough to score a pair of comfortable, breathable athletic sneakers on clearance!

I’m sure they’ll be appreciative of any one of these gifts!

Cheap Gift Ideas For Teachers

This list of cheap teach gifts for Christmas will help you choose a thoughtful and useful present that won’t break your budget.

Essential Oil Set: A true favorite for teachers who like to use aromatherapy in their classrooms or at home. This is our favorite essential oil set.
Stress-relief Hand Sanitizer: Teachers are always on the go, so they can use a little help to keep them stress-free. Plus, germs are no fun for anyone!
Personalized Mask Lanyard: Personalize your teacher’s mask with their name, school mascot or work logo.
Tiger Balm: This is a classic product for teachers and athletes alike! Tiger balm will help soothe your aches and pains.
Lounge Pants: Nothing reminds a teacher of home like their favorite TV show! A few years ago my mom gave me a really cute pair of lounge pants and I still wear them. The cut is oversized with pockets for my phone and remote which make it perfect for relaxing on the couch.
Smart Plugs: These plugs can be controlled on an app from anywhere. That means the teacher doesn’t have to worry about forgetting to turn their lights off before they left for work.
Personalized Stamp: A teacher’s stamp of approval is the best kind. This personalized stamp will help teachers quickly get through their paperwork.
Amazon Gift Card: Teachers deserve to take a breather and use some of their hard-earned cash on themselves. A gift card is the perfect way for friends or family members to say “thank you.”
Wireless Headphones: Music is a great way to get the energy going and keep kids psyched up, but it can be tough when they’re working on group tasks. Wireless headphones like these ones from Sony
Day-by-day Calendar: The last thing teachers need is to scramble for a blank piece of paper whenever they want to jot down notes. The day-by-day calendar is perfect because it’s got enough space for writing, but it’s compact enough to tuck into a drawer.
Magnetic Dry Erase Whiteboard: After all the long hours spent at school, who wouldn’t want their own personal whiteboard where they can write, draw, and erase?
Lunch Boxes: There is nothing better than a home-packed lunch. These stainless steel containers are compact enough to carry with you, but they’re also roomy enough to hold a sandwich, fruit, and veggies.
Educational Activity Books: If you’re looking for something that’s not only fun, but chock full of learning activities and information, these books are perfect for further learning.

Cheap Christmas Gifts for Mom or Her in your life

All of these are great inexpensive ideas for buying on a budget

Shopping for a great gift for women or moms can be hard, but not too much with these affordable options.

Little Succulents: This is a cute DIY gift. All you need are succulents, a pot with dirt, and some other accessories if desired.
Bath Bombs: These are great for anyone, including people who enjoy a good bath every now and again. They come in various scents so you can find something that is sure to please.
Chapstick: This is perfect for the person in your life who always has chapped lips or complains about dry skin on their hands when they are outside too long during winter months.
A Book: It may seem like the most unimaginative gift, but it’s perfect for someone who enjoys reading and is looking for something they haven’t read yet. Books are also a great way to get someone hooked on a series so you can recommend their next read.
Slippers: These are perfect for the person in your life who is constantly complaining about how cold their feet are.
Candles: This is a perfect gift for someone who enjoys relaxing or reading after dinner and the scent fills up the whole house with aromatherapy benefits.
A Scratch Off Map: This is a great gift for someone who enjoys traveling or seeing the world. It’s very personalized and they can see how many countries they have visited.
A Coffee Mug: This is a great gift for the coffee lover in your life. You can put anything on it such as their favorite book, television show or artist and they will be reminded of you every time they drink their coffee.
A Memory Blanket: This is a great gift for people who are always cold and it can go with them anywhere in the world because it folds up easily.
A Personalized T-shirt: This is a great gift because it’s very personal and you can put anything on the shirt that has meaning to them such as their favorite sports team, favorite food, or where they have traveled.
A Personalized Finger Drum: This is a great gift for anyone who loves to play drums because it has their name engraved right on the drumhead.

Cheap Christmas Gifts for Men

The following items are inexpensive and will make any man, dad, or boyfriend insanely happy! The cheapest gifts can be the best!

Here are some budget-friendly, manly, fun, and creative ideas for Christmas presents.

A New Shirt: You can find many options for cheap shirts. Grab one with a funny saying he would enjoy for an out-of-the-park win!
Belt: Belt prices vary by brand, but can be found for as low as $10.
Wallet: Wallets can also vary by brand and cost, but often end up being around $15.
New Socks:: Many men enjoy their sock collection. You can always add on to replace their worn-out socks.
A Tie: Ties can be found for as low as $5.
Watch: The watch market is a tough one to navigate, but if you know your partner’s style and budget beforehand it can be easier to find what you’re looking for.
A Tie Clip: You can usually pick one up for $5 or less, and it’s something that he’ll wear every day!
Old-school Vinyl Record Player: Old school vinyl is making a comeback and can be found in all sorts of different styles.
Latest Board Game: Board games are always a fun gift idea. You can pick up the latest hot game for less than $20
A Good Book: A good book is always a great gift idea. You can find them for as low as $5 and books are something that never goes out of style!
Cash: Let’s be honest… most men like to have the cash to spend as they please with no questions asked.

Cheap Christmas Gifts for Friends

You may not have a lot of money for this Christmas, but that doesn’t mean you can’t give your friends something thoughtful.

These inexpensive items may not be the most lavish of presents to give a friend this year, but they are sure to be appreciated and useful!

Whimsy Kit: A Whimsy Kit is a small package that includes activities such as drawing, coloring, and collaging. It can be used in classrooms or at home to relax and have fun.
Poster Board & Markers: A poster board and markers are perfect for making holiday cards to send out or decorating with a festive design.
Fun Scrapbook Pens: Fun pens are a wonderful gift for any age to bring color to their writing, coloring, or journaling.
Scented Candles Kit: Scented candles can be used for the holidays, but they also make a great gift for any time of the year. The smell will bring a warm and cozy feeling into your home.
Gold Foil Blanket: A gold foil blanket is perfect for snuggling up in the car when you are stuck in the car!
Cute Pillow Case: A new pillowcase is a fun way to change things up in your bedroom or living room. The best part about these gifts are that they can be given with other items, like the gold foil blanket or a fun pillow.
Comfy Socks: When it’s cold outside, there is nothing more comforting than a good pair of socks. These make a great gift for someone who spends most of their time at home or just loves to relax.
Bracelets: Jewelry is a great way to show someone you care. Bracelets are not only cute but they go with any outfit!
Christmas Ornament: A Christmas ornament makes for the perfect stocking stuffer. They are usually inexpensive and they can be used year round to decorate your home for the holidays.
Christmas Fun Pack: It is always fun when Santa sends a surprise in the mail, so why not surprise your friends with a Christmas Fun Pack!
Shower Steamers: These will make a great gift for someone who is your best friend, especially if they like to take long showers.
Flashlights: These are fun and practical gifts that will come in handy during the dark days of winter.
Tissue Box Covers: A unique and inexpensive gift for the person who has everything, these tissue box covers will make any house seem a little more homey during cold winter months.
Chocolate: For the person that has everything, you can’t go wrong with some chocolate.

Cheap Christmas Gifts for Coworkers:

A quick, easy, and affordable way to get the perfect gift for your coworkers this Christmas is by giving them a coworker appreciation gift basket.

These inexpensive gifts are great for bosses or employees. They can be personalized so it’s a gift that will really stick with your coworkers.

Planner: This is a great way to give your coworkers something they will really use. They can write down their goals, schedule, and use it as a to-do list.
Personalized Stationery: This is such an adorable idea and can be so much fun for everyone involved. These are the perfect gifts that will make your coworkers feel special this holiday
Putting Green: This is a great gift that they can use to practice their putting skills in the comfort of their own office.
Desk Organizer: A desk organizer is a great way to start your day off with a clean and organized workspace.
Timeless Candle: This candle helps you enjoy the holidays or winter season while relaxing in the office.
Coffee Mug: Every office needs a good coffee mug to stay energized and motivated throughout the day.
Personalized Mouse Pad: You could get them their favorite movie, sport or hobby as a personalized mouse pad and they’ll enjoy using it every day at their office.
Luxury Pen: This is the perfect gift for that person who has everything and needs something to help them write down their thoughts and ideas.
Desk Lamp: A desk lamp can help you read in your office when it’s dark outside so all the daylight hours are available for working on projects or catching up on paperwork.
Ink Pen: This is a great gift idea for anyone who likes to write or doodle. You could get them this as a refillable pen and they can use it to write down their thoughts or ideas.
Laptop Tote Bag: This is the perfect gift for anyone who likes to travel and needs something stylish but functional to carry everything in one place.
Plant pot & planter: This is a great gift for someone who likes to spend time in their garden or on the porch. You could give them this as an opportunity to grow something new and have something beautiful in their office that is all their own.
Journal: This is a classic gift that people like to get for themselves or others. You can find many different styles and sizes of journals, making it easy for you to find the perfect one for your recipient.
Watercolor set: This is a great gift if you know someone who loves to paint or draw. It is an opportunity for them to tap into their creative side while also having the materials that they need to create something beautiful or special for someone else.
Keychain: This is a great gift for anyone because everyone needs keys! You can get them a keychain that has their name on it, or you can get them a cute one for someone they love.
Laptop sleeve: This is a great gift for anyone who has to have their laptop with them at all times. They come in so many different colors and designs, so you can find one that fits your friend or family member perfectly!
Monitor riser: If you know someone who has a desk job, they’re probably struggling to stay focused on their screen. This is the perfect gift for anyone who spends time at work looking down all day!

Best Cheap Christmas Gift of them All – Gift Card:

A gift card is a prepaid credit or debit card that can be spent in any number of stores, restaurants, and other venues as desired by the purchaser.

This option is great for people who are the “hard to buy for” type.

Even a $10 or $20 gift card to somewhere they like is better than a gift to sit on the shelf unused.

Giving a gift card is always an easy way out, but it can be more useful than materialistic gifts they may not use.

You can never go wrong with a gift card to their favorite store!

You can Buy Cheap Christmas Presents that Look Expensive

I know that this time of year can be so busy and stressful. It’s hard to find the perfect gift for everyone on your list, especially when you have a tight budget. But there are so many fun and creative ideas that won’t break the bank.

You’ll find the perfect gift for everyone on your list!

Hopefully, you can find cheap Christmas gifts under $20 or less. Most of these power ideas you can pick up on Amazon or Etsy.

Christmas is often a time where people try to get the best gifts for their loved ones. In order to make these gifts more affordable, it’s smart to think about ways that can lower expenses.

One way to do this is by choosing gifts that can be combined with other items. Or even choosing a no gift Christmas.

It is always fun to give a gift to someone special on Christmas. However, sometimes you feel uncertain about what the perfect present is for somebody else.

We hope you’ve enjoyed our cheap but thoughtful Christmas gift ideas!

With these items, your loved one will have a great Christmas! Be sure to check our blog for more money saving tips!

Need More Inexpensive Christmas Gift ideas?

Source: moneybliss.org

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June 8, 2023 by Brett Tams

Georgia offers an affordable cost of living, top-notch schools and universities, and ample attractions, like the World of Coca-Cola, Forsyth Park, and Atlanta Botanical Garden. It’s also home to a diverse selection of reputable, member FDIC banks for individuals and small business owners.

No matter what your financial needs may be, you’re sure to find a good fit in the Peach State.

14 Best Banks in Georgia

We’ve made finding the best banks in Georgia effortless with our comprehensive list, so let’s dive straight into the options.

1. First Citizens Bank

Owned by First Citizens BancShares, First Citizens Bank has 56 branches across Georgia. As long as you sign up for paperless statements and make an initial opening deposit of at least $50, you won’t be on the hook for monthly maintenance fees.

With the First Citizens standard savings account, you’ll be able to earn interest without paying a monthly service fee or meeting a minimum balance requirement. The bank offers additional banking products, like credit cards, loans, retirement accounts, investment services, and insurance.

As a First Citizens customer, you can bank in-person at a local branch or perform account management online or via the robust mobile app.

2. Ally Bank

Ally Bank is a digital bank with a reputation for industry leading interest rates and low fees. While it doesn’t have a physical presence in Georgia, you can open and manage your accounts through Ally’s intuitive online and mobile banking tools. The Ally Interest Checking account online is a solid pick if you’d like to earn interest and don’t want to worry about annual fees or minimum balance requirements.

You can use the online portal or mobile app to pay bills online, deposit checks, and transfer funds. If you’d like to withdraw some cash, you’ll be able to do so at an Allpoint ATM for free with your Ally debit card.

Ally will also reimburse you if you make any out-of-network ATM reimbursements. In addition to the Ally interest bearing checking account, you might want to open the Ally Online Savings account, which comes with an impressive interest rate and savings bucket tools to help you meet your financial goals.

3. Axos Bank

Axos Bank is a digital bank that serves Georgians. If you’re in the market for checking accounts, you’ll have several options available to you. These include the Essential Checking, Rewards Checking, CashBack Checking, Golden Checking, and First Checking. Many of these accounts earn cash rewards or pay interest.

In addition to an Axos checking account, you might want to consider a high-yield savings account, high-yield money market, or a CD. You can also invest through Axos Invest, which is the bank’s free robo advisor. In addition, the bank offers 24/7 support for personal banking customers.

4. CIT Bank

CIT Bank is an online bank serving customers in all states, including Georgia. You can earn a competitive annual percentage yield or APY on various accounts without paying an arm and a leg for maintenance fees.

The CIT checking account requires a $100 minimum deposit but comes with interest and a free debit card. There’s also the Savings Builder account, which is a two-tiered savings account that requires a $25,000 balance or at least one monthly deposit of $100 or more.

Other options include the CIT Bank Money Market Account, certificates of deposit or CDs, home loans, and business accounts. You may download the CIT Bank app on your Android or IOS device to make mobile check deposits, pay bills, and use services like Zelle, Apple Pay, and Samsung Pay.

5. Renasant Bank

Headquartered in Mississippi, Renasant Bank has physical locations throughout Georgia. It’s a community bank with several checking account options. Each free checking account comes with perks like online bill pay, mobile banking, a debit card, and a switch kit so you can switch accounts without the hassle.

Renasant’s savings account lineup includes an interest bearing savings account, a savings account for children, a health savings account (HSA), and money market accounts.

If you’re interested in a loan, you can choose from personal loans, auto loans, and home equity lines of credit. In addition to personal banking services, Renasant provides mortgages and a plethora of business banking products. There’s also Renasant Rewards Extra, which gives you access to thousands of deals, cell phone insurance, identity theft protection, roadside assistance, and a health savings card.

6. United Community Bank

Based in Blairsville, United Community Bank is a regional bank with branch locations throughout Georgia, Alabama, Florida, Tennessee, South Carolina, and North Carolina. It’s insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or FDIC and has been around since 1950. As a United customer, you can take advantage of more than 206 United ATMs and 1,260 Publix Presto! ATMs for free.

Its plethora of offerings include checking accounts, savings accounts, mortgages, credit cards, CDs, investing products, and business banking products. You can bank on the go via the convenient mobile app or use the online appointment scheduling tool to schedule an in-person appointment with a banker. If you have any questions or concerns, you can fill out a support form online and state whether you prefer an email or phone response.

7. Ameris Bank

Ameris Bank is a regional full-service bank with brick-and-mortar locations throughout Georgia in cities like Atlanta, Tucker, Woodstock, Marietta, and Oakwood. It offers three checking accounts with benefits such as a free Visa debit card, online banking access, e-statements, online bill pay, mobile banking, and Zelle transfers. In addition to checking accounts,

Ameris offers a plethora of savings accounts, including a personal savings account, personal money market account, minor savings account, health savings account, educational savings account, IRA, and CDs. You can also turn to Ameris for numerous mortgage options and down payment assistance. The bank provides personalized business banking solutions as well.

8. Bank of America

Bank of America is a well-known leader in the banking industry. Its financial centers and ATMs are present in various Georgia cities. From checking accounts, savings accounts, and credit cards to home loans, auto loans, and investing products, Bank of America offers it all.

The bank is also a great resource if you’re looking for small business banking products. Its Business Advantage Banking product is a business checking account with two settings to meet varying business needs.

While the Fundamentals setting has all the basic tools you need to manage your business, the Relationship setting is more robust and won’t charge you fees for wire transfers and electronic deposits. You can switch settings to accommodate your business needs at any time.

In addition to checking accounts, Bank of America offers small business loans, like SBA loans, commercial real estate loans, auto loans, and secured lines of credit.

9. Community Bank of Georgia

Based in Baxley, Community Bank of Georgia is a locally owned and operated bank with 24/7 ATM access. It aims to develop long-term relationships with account holders while offering a full suite of products and services.

The bank’s personal savings accounts include the regular savings account, Treasuresaver Club account for children ages zero to 13, a holiday savings account for holiday expenses, and a personal money market account for high interest savings opportunities.

Other personal banking products offered by Community Bank of Georgia include checking accounts and credit cards. The bank serves local business owners as well.

10. Chase Bank

The consumer banking arm of JPMorgan Chase, Chase is one of the largest national banks with a widespread presence in Atlanta. If you decide to open a deposit account at Chase with eligible Chase checking accounts, there’s a good chance you’ll qualify for a generous sign-up bonus.

You’ll also have access to a wide selection of products, including numerous checking accounts, two savings accounts, CDs with terms ranging from one month to 10 years, home mortgage loans, auto loans, home refinancing, and more. We can’t forget to mention that Chase offers Chase overdraft assist to help you avoid overdraft fees and inconveniences.

Thanks to Chase’s highly rated mobile banking app, you’ll be able to manage your account, make electronic transfers, deposit mobile checks, pill bays online, transfer money with Zelle, automate your savings, and set up account alerts. If you need assistance, you may reach out to Chase directly via phone or social media.

11. Morris Bank

Morris Bank is a local bank with branches in Georgia cities like Dublin, Gray, and Warner Robins. Regardless of which checking account you choose, you’ll enjoy access to free online banking, remote deposit services, online bill pay, and mobile banking.

When it comes to savings accounts, Morris offers the Savings Builder account, which will round up your purchases so you can save more money. In addition, the Blue Savings account allows for three free withdrawals per quarter.

The bank also serves small businesses in Georgia through checking accounts, savings accounts, business loans, treasury services, and merchant services. Even though it’s smaller than other banks on this list, Morris is technologically savvy and allows for online and mobile banking. Many residents believe Morris Bank is the best local bank.

12. Fifth Third Bank

Fifth Third Bank primarily serves the Midwest and has more than 33 banking centers and 80 ATMs at RaceTrac convenience stores. If you don’t want to visit a local branch, you can use the Fifth Third mobile app to transfer money, check balances and direct deposit transactions, and more.

While the bank’s most popular services are for individuals and small businesses, it also provides personalized wealth management solutions. These personalized wealth management solutions include private banking, wealth planning, trusts and estates, insurance, and investments.

As a wealth management customer, you can enjoy access to the Life360 site, which makes it easy to organize your finances and track your progress.

13. Truist Bank

Truist has physical locations in Georgia cities like Atlanta, Brunswick, Cartersville, and Pooler. Formerly known as BB&T, it offers a variety of personal and business banking products. You can select from five checking accounts, two savings accounts, one money market account, and CDs.

In addition to deposit accounts, Truist provides HSAs, prepaid cards, prepaid money account products, mortgages and home equity lines, personal loans, auto loans, investment products, retirement accounts, and personal insurance. Truist Mobile is the bank’s mobile app, which you may use to manage your account, deposit mobile checks, transfer money, locate branches, and pay bills.

14. Wells Fargo

Wells Fargo is a large national bank with more than 200 branches and over 600 ATMs in the Peach State. Just like most traditional banks, it offers a wide variety of banking products and services, such as savings and checking accounts, credit cards, home loans, personal loans, auto loan accounts, and investment accounts.

If you’re a small business owner in Georgia, you might want to consider Wells for business checking accounts, business savings accounts, business credit cards, small business loans, and merchant services.

The bank also offers a mobile app with LifeSync, a unique tool to monitor your spending habits and make smarter financial decisions. Additionally, Wells Fargo, which is considered the best national bank by many people, lets you automate your investing or work with a dedicated financial advisor.

Types of Banks in Georgia

There are several types of banks in the Peach State. Here’s an overview of the most common financial institutions you’ll find.

National Banks

National banks are banks with a presence across the country. Most of them have branches and ATMs in Georgia and other parts of the U.S.

These types of banks typically offer a diverse lineup of products and may be a solid choice if you have varying financial needs as an individual or small business owner.

Community Banks

Community banks serve specific geographic areas. They’re similar to credit unions in that they prioritize personalized customer attention. In Georgia, you may choose from numerous community banks like Ameris Bank, United Community Bank, and Morris Bank.

Online Banks

Also known as virtual banks or neobanks, online banks are tech forward and make it easy to perform various banking needs online or via mobile devices. While they don’t have physical locations in Georgia, they do offer many perks that you might not be able elsewhere.

Some examples of online banks that serve Georgia residents are Ally Bank, CIT Bank, and Axos Bank. With these financial institutions, you may be able to avoid a monthly fee and secure a competitive annual percentage yield or APY.

Common Banking Products

It’s wise to figure out what types of banking products meet your particular banking needs. Several of these products include:

Checking Accounts

Checking accounts are ideal for everyday purchases. You can also use them to make deposits, pay bills, and more. Some checking accounts might charge monthly service fees or impose minimum opening deposits. However, they might waive them if you take certain actions, like enroll in autopay or sign up for paperless statements. To access your checking account funds, you can visit a local branch or ATM. Depending on the bank, you may even find a checking account that pays interest.

Savings Accounts

Savings accounts are places to store your cash for various personal finance goals, like a house down payment, new car, or even a dream vacation. It’s also a great place for an emergency fund, which features three to six months worth of expenses. In general, online savings accounts pay out higher interest rates than traditional savings accounts. You’ll likely be able to make six free withdrawals per month.

High-Yield Savings Accounts

Compared to traditional savings accounts, high-yield savings accounts offer much higher interest rates. Typically, they don’t charge monthly or annual fees. If you’d like to open a high-yield savings account, consider an online bank as they’re not always available at traditional banks.

Certificates of Deposit

Certificates of deposit (CD) allow you to store your money for a certain amount of time while you earn interest. With a CD, you’ll usually be required to make a minimum initial deposit and choose a term. Typically, the longer the CD term, the higher interest rate you earn. If you’re looking for guaranteed returns, a CD is a solid choice.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are a suitable option if you’d like to earn rewards, like cash back, travel points, gift cards, and merchandise. While some are free, others come with annual fees. Do the math and make sure an annual fee is worth the benefits before you go ahead and move forward with it.

Loans

These days, many financial institutions offer loans. Some loans are for personal use, such as personal loans, mortgages, and car loans. Other loan options are designed for businesses, like SBA loans, commercial real estate loans, and business lines of credit. Before you commit to a loan, review the interest rates and terms to ensure you can pay it back on time.

How to Choose a Bank in Georgia

As you can see, not all Georgia banks are created equal. In fact, there are many options at your disposal. To help you hone in on the right bank for your unique needs, we encourage you to consider these factors.

Accessibility

Most traditional banks have local branches throughout the Peach State. If you prefer an in-person banking experience, this is great news. However, you’ll likely be able to lock in better interest rates and lower fees if you opt for an online bank with less overhead costs. Fortunately, traditional and online banks usually both have mobile apps so you can bank from just about anywhere.

Fees

Some examples of common banking fees you might come across include monthly maintenance fees, ATM fees, overdraft fees, wire transfer fees, account closing fees, and dormancy fees. When you shop around for the perfect bank in Georgia, you’ll notice that larger banks with physical branches tend to charge more fees and higher fees than online banks.

Minimum Balance Requirements

Depending on the bank and accounts you choose, you might have to maintain a minimum balance. If you don’t, you’ll likely be on the hook for fees. Before you pursue a certain account, make sure you can comfortably afford the minimum balance requirement. The minimum balance may be thousands of dollars, so this is an important factor to consider.

Product Options

Before you look for a Georgia bank, ask yourself what products and services you need. Maybe you’re seeking a personal checking account and savings account. Or perhaps you’re a Georgia business owner and in the market for business credit cards or business loans. Typically, national banks offer a greater selection of products and services than regional banks and credit unions.

Customer Service

There’s a good chance you’ll have questions or concerns once you decide on a bank. For this reason, it’s important to choose a financial institution with high customer service ratings and easy access to customer support. While some banks offer 24/7 customer service via phone, email, and live chat, others will only help you during select business hours.

Reviews

Be sure to read reviews from real customers on reputable review sites. If you notice many negative reviews about the same topics, you may want to be cautious and look to other banking institutions. It’s also a good idea to check out ratings on websites, like Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Consumer Affairs. In addition, don’t be afraid to ask family and friends for their recommendations on banks.

FDIC Insurance

FDIC insurance will keep your money safe in the event your bank fails. The FDIC usually insures up to $250,000 per depositor. In addition to deposit accounts, it covers money orders, cashier’s checks, and other official products. Before you open an account at a bank, make sure it’s FDIC insured. Most banks have the FDIC insurance logo on their websites.

Extras

Some banks go above and beyond and offer more than traditional banking products and services, like checking accounts and savings accounts. You may want to look for extra perks like overdraft protection or assist credit monitoring services, introductory offers, foreign currency exchange accounts, robo advising, and credit cards with impressive rewards.

Values

If you visit a bank’s website, you’ll know what it values. One bank might prioritize long standing customer relationships while another one is a socially responsible bank. If you’re debating between two banks, consider each institution’s values to help you make a decision.

Bottom Line

The Peach State has no shortage of banks. However, the right one for you depends on numerous factors, like your preferred products and services, the types of fees you can afford and are willing to pay, and whether you’d like to bank online or in-person.

If you’re unsure of which bank makes the most sense for your situation, don’t hesitate to open accounts in a few of them. From there, you can hone in on the best option. Good luck with your search for the ideal bank in Georgia.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the largest banks in Georgia?

The largest banks in Georgia have the most branches throughout the state. These include Bank of America, Truist Bank, Ameris Bank, Fifth Third Bank, and Wells Fargo. All of these institutions are known for their extensive ATM networks and diverse product lineup.

How do I open a bank account in Georgia?

In most cases, you can open a bank account on the bank’s website or mobile app. You’ll likely need to submit a government-issued ID, like a driver’s license or passport, as well as personal information, such as your Social Security number.

What are some community banks in Georgia?

The Peach State has many community banks. The most popular options are Community Bank of Georgia, United Community Bank, Mountain Valley Community Bank, and Gwinnett Community Bank. Community banks are a solid choice if in-person service is important to you.

How can I avoid bank fees in Georgia?

If you don’t mind online or mobile banking, you’ll likely find fewer fees at an online bank. Also, some traditional banks may allow you to waive their fees. Since fees can eat into your savings and financial goals, you should do your best to avoid or reduce them.

Should I open an account at different banks in Georgia?

If you have large amounts of cash, you might want to open accounts at different banks. This is because the FDIC usually insures up to $250,000 per depositor and bank. This holds true even if you have several accounts with the same bank. You may also want to open different accounts if you want to take advantage of different benefits.

Is it better to choose a small bank or a large bank in Georgia?

Big banks offer a greater selection of products and services than small banks. But you might have to pay a monthly maintenance fee or make a minimum opening deposit. Small banks, on the other hand, take the time to get to know their customers and provide more personalized service. The ideal banking size depends on your particular priorities.

How can I easily switch bank accounts in Georgia?

First, gather basic information like your Social Security number or Tax Identification Number. Then, start the application process, fund your new accounts, and transfer funds from older accounts. Don’t forget to set up direct deposits and automate recurring payments. Some banks offer switch kits to simplify this process.

Source: crediful.com

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June 8, 2023 by Brett Tams

Best for cash back: Maximum Rewards® World Mastercard® by Amalgamated Bank

Pros

No annual fee
Unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases
$30 bonus (30,000 points) when you spend $600 within the first three billing cycles
0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 12 billing cycles

Cons

Higher variable APR on purchases and balance transfers after the introductory period
3% foreign transaction fee

Features

Travel insurance including

Amalgamated Bank supports a number of different causes from environmental sustainability to workers’ rights, and it’s union-owned to boot. Founded in 1923, it’s been rallying behind rallying people for over a century. It’s net-zero and run on renewable energy, pro-union, an ally to immigrants, and politically progressive.

But we’re here to talk about the credit card too. The Maximum Rewards® World Mastercard® is a rewards credit card that earns 1.5% rewards on all purchases. It’s got a great 12-month intro APR, a signup bonus, and good redemption flexibility — all without an annual fee.

Choose this option if you want to have your cake and eat it too (i.e. side with a bank that’s doing some good and still get a great flat-rate cash back card).

Learn more.

Best socially responsible card: Rewards Platinum Visa® from Green America

Pros

No annual fee
Unlimited one point per dollar on all purchases
0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 12 billing cycles
$150,000 in Travel Accident Insurance

Cons

1% foreign transaction fee

Features

Donates a portion of profits to charities
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Maybe you’ve heard of Green America, the nonprofit working to combat climate change, promote ethical practices and corporate governance, fight for social justice, and more. Green America’s work covers a broad range of issues, and its credit card, the Rewards Platinum Visa®, supports these efforts with every transaction. And it earns unlimited points on everything.

This affinity card has a fairly competitive APR, doesn’t charge an annual fee, and has a few nice benefits like travel insurance and a lower foreign transaction fee. But it’s not perfect, and we wish it were more clear about how donations worked and where exactly they were going.

This is a good choice if you’re interested in socially responsible causes and giving back.

Learn more.

Best card for charitable donations: Charity Charge Card

Pros

No annual fee
Lower interest rate on purchases

Cons

Does not earn rewards
2% foreign transaction fee

Features

Donates 1% of all purchases to the charity of your choice

The Charity Charge Card automatically gives to charity every time you use it. Can your current card do that?

When you apply for this credit card, you get to choose the nonprofit you want your spending to automatically benefit. If a nonprofit is set up to receive credit card donations, it is likely available as an option. Bonus: your donations may qualify for charitable tax deductions, which can help the fact that you otherwise won’t earn rewards or cash back sting a little less.

Since donations are calculated as a percentage of spending, you’ll have a greater impact the more regularly you use this card. If you don’t want to miss out on rewards entirely, you could use this card for some of your spending that wouldn’t qualify for the best rates otherwise.

Learn more.

Read more: Want To Help But Can’t Give Cash? 10 Alternatives To Donating Money

Best secured credit card: Secured Mastercard® by Amalgamated Bank

Pros

Potential for a credit limit increase in as little as seven months after opening
Set your own credit line between $300 and $5,000
Potential to receive security deposit back in as little as 11 months with on-time payments

Cons

Does not earn rewards or cash back
$35 annual fee
3% foreign transaction fee

Features

Set your own limit and qualify for a credit limit increase

The Secured Mastercard® by Amalgamated Bank is a decent low-fee secured card for eco-conscious borrowers. It has a minimum limit of $300 and a maximum of $5,000, and your line is determined by your security deposit. This carries a modest annual fee (for a secured card) of $35 and fairly average interest rates, and it’s a little more flexible than the average competitor.

You may be eligible for a credit limit increase in as little as seven months after opening an account with responsible use and can get your deposit back in less than a year.

This is a good option for borrowers with little or poor credit, but you should only choose this if you couldn’t qualify for one of the others, as it doesn’t earn rewards and has higher fees.

Learn more.

Best for travel: Visa Signature Card (Climate Card) by Beneficial State Bank

Pros

No annual fee
Unlimited one point per dollar on all purchases

Cons

1% foreign transaction fee

Features

Travel insurance and protection including: Travel & emergency assistance services, travel accident insurance, auto rental collision damage waiver, and roadside dispatch

Beneficial State Bank is a purpose-driven financial institution with an eco-friendly card for people who may want their spending to help out green charities and nonprofits.

The Climate Card is similar to the Rewards Platinum Visa by Green America in that it earns flat-rate rewards that can be donated to charity. But unlike the Green America card, the Climate Card has you choose what happens to your points. So if you want to donate them, you can. But if you want to instead redeem for cash or travel, that’s your prerogative too.

This is a good travel card because it has a 1% foreign transaction fee (compared to 1% or 2%) and comes with benefits like insurance and roadside dispatch. And because it lets you choose between keeping your points and donating them, it’s also one of the most flexible choices.

Learn more.

Best fee-free credit card (for people in Washington): Verity Signature Rewards Visa

Pros

No annual fee
No foreign transaction fee
1.5 points per dollar on all purchases
0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 12 billing cycles

Cons

Only people in Washington state are eligible to join Verity Credit Union

Features

Signature Rewards Visa protection benefits including: extended warranty protection, emergency assistance travel services, accident insurance, and more

Credit cards without foreign transaction fees can be hard to come by, but this card makes it happen. The Signature Rewards Visa by Verity Credit Union charges no annual fee and no foreign transaction fee, giving it a huge advantage over all the others on this list. But it has the huge disadvantage of being only available to people in the state of Washington.

Points can be redeemed for cash, travel, gift cards, or purchases and there are no restrictions for earning. There’s also an intro APR offer of 12 months on purchases and balance transfers, making this comparable to many rewards cards on the market. If you do qualify to join Verity, consider it for this — especially if you’re on the fence about eco-friendly cards.

This is a good card from an admirable credit union, but it won’t be a fit for everyone (or most).

Learn more.

Best debit card for earning: Aspiration Spend and Save

Pros

Up to 10% cash back on eligible Conscience Coalition purchases
Earns up to 3.00% interest with qualifying debit activity

Cons

Monthly fees for the Plus Plan ($7.99 a month paid monthly or $5.99 a month paid annually)
Does not earn cash back on all purchases
Does not build credit

Features

$10 minimum deposit
Additional green benefits like carbon offsetting and planting trees with purchases

The Aspiration Spend & Save account offers a debit card that earns rewards like a credit card and comes with a whole host of eco-friendly benefits. There are two plans to choose from.

The base Aspiration plan uses a “pay what is fair” fee structure and the Aspiration Plus plan costs $5.99 or $7.99 a month depending on if you pay monthly or annually. The Aspiration plan pays up to 1.00% interest and up to 3% – 5% cash back while the Aspiration Plus plan pays up to 3.00% interest and 10% cash back on Conscience Coalition spending.

Both have features like early direct deposit and the ability to plant trees when you spend, but only the Aspiration Plus account includes additional automatic offsets and Purchase Assurance. If you decide this account is right for you, pick the Plus Plan to maximize benefits.

Read our full Aspiration review.

Aspiration Zero Credit Card

Aspiration used to offer a credit card called the Aspiration Zero Credit Card, but they are no longer accepting new applications. Now, this bank’s only individual solution is the Spend & Save account, a rewards-earning checking account with a debit card.

Best debit card for eco-friendly spending: FutureCard Visa Debit Card

Pros

No monthly fees or annual fee
6% cash back on eligible purchases at FuturePartners
5% cash back on “climate-smart spending” purchases such as EV charging, bikes and scooters, public transit, etc.

Cons

Does not earn cash back on all purchases
Does not build credit

Features

See your climate impact using your FutureScore
Complete missions to earn FutureCoins

The FutureCard Visa Debit Card earns rewards based on your spending habits. The more eco-friendly your purchases, the more you’ll earn.

With this card, you’ll get points for “climate-smart spending.” This is defined as purchases with a lower carbon footprint, and examples include electric vehicle charging and secondhand items. There’s no cap on earnings but you won’t earn cash back on all purchases.

This card is also unique because it provides you with a summary of your impact in the form of a FutureScore. The app then gives you suggestions for living more sustainably and pays FutureCoins, which can be redeemed for cash, when you complete Missions. Look out for promotions and bonus days to earn even more cash back on your purchases.

Learn more.

Best business credit card for nonprofits: Charity Charge Nonprofit Business Card

Pros

No annual fee
Discounts and rebates on business spending

Cons

Does not earn rewards

Features

Mastercard Zero Liability protection

If you own or work for a nonprofit and are looking for a business credit card, look no further than the Charity Charge Nonprofit Business Card. This business card is exclusively for nonprofits and works with over 2,000 nonprofits to meet their spending and financing needs.

This card doesn’t charge an annual fee and offers service benefits specifically geared toward not-for-profit rather than for-profit institutions. These include expert guidance from the support team and dedicated representatives.

The Charity Charge Nonprofit Business Card is ideal for nonprofits with less credit to work with, especially newer and growing organizations.

Learn more.

What is an eco-friendly credit card?

An eco-friendly credit card or green credit card has a positive environmental impact.

There isn’t one single type of eco-friendly credit card, as the term “green” looks a little different to everyone, but the point is that they’re better for the planet. There are also green and eco-friendly debit cards.

A card might be green if it:

Has a smaller carbon footprint than the average card
Rewards you for eco-friendly spending
Donates to environmental nonprofits
Plants trees with each transaction

These are just a few examples.

There are also cards that have a more general positive impact. For example, they might support socially responsible missions such as fair labor and equal housing. These can benefit the planet but might also benefit other causes as well. The Rewards Platinum Visa® from Green America is a good example of this.

Pros and cons of greener cards

Green credit and debit cards aren’t for everyone, but for some might be just what they’ve been looking for. Here are a few of the main pros and cons to consider with this type of product.

Pros

Eco-friendly cards offer many benefits for people with environmental — or financial — goals.

Some allow you to donate to charities without using money out of your own pocket, and these donations could be tax deductible. The best ones even let you choose the charity.

Others incentivize you to be more eco-friendly in your spending habits by handing you the most rewards points for green purchases. This could help you live more sustainably.

And a few have their own unique benefits, like Aspiration’s tree-planting with transactions.

Many of these cards earn some sort of rewards for spending, with several offering flat rates on everything. And a handful also have everyday perks like purchase protection and discounts too.

Cons

While greener cards offer benefits like lowering your impact and motivating yourself to make more sustainable choices, they do require you to compromise in some areas.

When it comes to rewards you actually earn, most of these cards just aren’t as competitive as others. The highest rate we’ve seen for green credit cards is 1.5% cash back, and this is the lowest base rate for many of the best rewards cards out there. And you might not have a lot of flexibility in how you redeem these rewards with an eco-friendly card.

These cards also don’t have as much going for them in the perks department. They have leaner travel benefits, if any at all, and very few free features.

Sure, the satisfaction of knowing you’re helping the planet is rewarding, but it might not help you save money and isn’t as flashy as what other cards offer.

Who are eco-friendly credit cards and debit cards best for?

If your spending habits make sense for one of these cards and you’re willing to compromise on rewards some in order to do good with your dollars, an eco-friendly card could be right for you.

You might decide to go green with your card because you don’t want to support big banks with harmful practices that hurt the planet, people, or both. For example, many major card issuers are responsible for enormous carbon footprints and lend money to fossil fuel companies.

Some are also involved in scandals, wrapped up in politics, and sneaky about where they spend money. It’s not a good look.

If you want to be part of something different, these cards are just one way to do that.

Read more: What is public banking?

Who are eco-friendly credit cards and debit cards not ideal for?

Don’t go for a green credit card or socially responsible card if your number one priority is earning the most rewards. These cards have lower payouts than others, fewer options for redemption, and often less earning flexibility.

Eco-friendly credit and debit cards are not yet on par with the rest of the options in the personal finance world. And until they have higher rewards rates and more benefits overall, they’re not likely to become mainstream any time soon.

Fortunately for those who want to help the planet but don’t want to sign up for one of these cards, there are other ways to spend more sustainably. This next section is for you.

What if you don’t want a green credit card?

If you don’t want to have to compromise on rewards — or you just don’t need a new card — but still want to make a positive impact, you can skip the card and do these things:

Click the link below for more ways to make your money green.

Read more: 12 easy ways to make your money green and protect our planet

Summary

There are many green credit and debit cards to choose from, each with its own benefits for your wallet and the environment. We’ve highlighted the best here, but even some of these leave a little to be desired when it comes to rewards earning, perks, and redemption.

But if this category catches on as consumers grow more conscious of their impact on the planet, more eco-friendly cards will be available and this space will become more competitive.

Apache is functioning normally

June 8, 2023 by Brett Tams

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.

We are going to under the cover and discover $12 an hour is how much per year.

For most Americans, this is hovering near minimum wage.

Let’s get this straight… This is not a livable wage.

If you are in high school or college and have support from your parents, then this is great spending money for you.

However, if you are making it on your own, $12 per hour will not make ends meet each month.

For most people, being at minimum wage is common and the goal is to make your way up the payscale and quickly!

In this post, we’re going to detail exactly what $12 an hour is how much a year. Also, we are going to break it down to know how much is made per month, bi-weekly, per week, and daily.

That will help you immensely with how you spend your money. Because too many times the hard-earned cash is brought home, but there is no actual plan for how to spend that money.

When living close to minimum wage, you must know how to manage money wisely.

More than likely, you are living paycheck to paycheck and struggling to survive to the next paycheck. Take a deep breath and make this minimum wage just a season.

The ultimate goal is to make the most of your hourly wage with inspirations to make more money.

If that is something you want too, then keep reading. You are in the right place.

$12 an Hour is How Much a Year?

When we ran all of our numbers to figure out how much is $12 per hour is as an annual salary, we used the average working day of 40 hours a week.

40 hours x 52 weeks x $12 = $24960

$24960 is the gross annual salary with a $12 per hour wage.

Breakdown Of 12 Dollars An Hour Is How Much A Year

Typically, the average work week is 40 hours and you can work 52 weeks a year. Take 40 hours times 52 weeks and that equals 2,080 working hours. Then, multiple the hourly salary of $12 times 2,080 working hours, and the result is $24,960.

That number is the gross income before taxes, insurance, 401K, or anything else is taken out. Net income is how much you deposit into your bank account.

Work Part Time?

But you may think, oh wait, I’m only working part time. So if you’re working part time, the assumption is working 20 hours a week at $12 an hour.

Only 20 hours per week. Then, take 20 hours times 52 weeks and that equals 1,040 working hours. Then, multiple the hourly salary of $12 times 1,040 working hours, and the result is $12480.

How Much is $12 Per Month?

On average, the monthly amount would average $2,080.

Annual Amount of $24000 ÷ 12 months = $2080 per month

Since some months have more days and fewer days like February, you can expect months with more days to have a bigger paycheck. Also, this can be heavily influenced by how often you are paid and on which days you get paid.

Work Part Time?

Only 20 hours per week. Then, the monthly amount would average $1040.

How Much is $12 per Hour Per Week

This is a great number to know! How much do I make each week? When I roll out of bed and do my job, what can I expect to make at the end of the week?

Once again, the assumption is 40 hours worked.

40 hours x $12 = $480 per week.

Work Part Time?

Only 20 hours per week. Then, the weekly amount would be $240.

How Much is $12 per Hour Bi-Weekly

For this calculation, take the average weekly pay of $480 and double it.

$480 per week x 2 = $960

Also, the other way to calculate this is:

40 hours x 2 weeks x $12 an hour = $960

Work Part Time?

Only 20 hours per week. Then, the bi-weekly amount would be $480.

How Much is $12 Per Hour Per Day

This depends on how many hours you work in a day. For this example, we are going to use an eight hour work day.

8 hours x $12 per hour = $96 per day.

If you work 10 hours a day for four days, then you would make $120 per day. (10 hours x $12 per hour)

Work Part Time?

Only 4 hours per day. Then, the daily amount would be $48.

$12 Per Hour is…

$12 per Hour – Full Time	Total Income
Yearly Salary (52 weeks)	$24,960
Yearly Wage (50 weeks)	$24,000
Monthly Wage (173 hours)	$2,080
Weekly Wage (40 Hours)	$490
Bi-Weekly Wage (80 Hours)	$960
Daily Wage (8 Hours)	$96
Net Estimated Monthly Income	$1,588

^{**These are assumptions based on simple scenarios.}

Paid Time Off Earning 12 Dollars an Hour

Does your employer offer paid time off?

As an hourly, close to minimum wage employee, more than likely you will not get paid time off.

So, here are the scenarios for both cases.

For general purposes, we are going to assume you work 40 hours per week over the course of the year.

Case # 1 – With Paid Time Off

Most hourly employees, get two weeks of paid time off which is equivalent to 2 weeks of paid time off.

In this case, you would make $24960 per year.

This is the same as the example above for an annual salary making $12 per hour.

Case #2 – No Paid Time Off

Unfortunately, not all employers offer paid time off to their hourly employees. While that is unfortunate, it is best to plan for less income.

Life happens. There will be times you need to take time off for numerous reasons – sick time, handling an emergency, or even vacation.

So, let’s assume you take 2 weeks off without paid time off.

That means you would only work 50 weeks of the year instead of all 52 weeks. Take 40 hours times 50 weeks and that equals 2,000 working hours. Then, multiple the hourly salary of $12 times 2,000 working hours, and the result is $24,000.

40 hours x 50 weeks x $12 = $24000

You would average $96 per working day and nothing when you don’t work.

$12 an Hour is How Much a year After Taxes

Let’s be honest… Taxes can take up a big chunk of your paycheck. Thus, you need to know how taxes can affect your hourly wage.

This is why you always wondering why your take-home pay is so much less.

Also, every single person’s tax situation is different.

On the basic level, let’s assume a 12% federal tax rate and a 4% state rate. Plus a percentage is taken out for Social Security and Medicare (FICA) of 7.65%.

Gross Annual Salary: $24,960

Federal Taxes of 12%: $2,995
State Taxes of 4%: $998
Social Security and Medicare of 7.65%: $1,909

$12 an Hour per Year after Taxes: $19,057

This would be your net annual salary after taxes.

To turn that back into an hourly wage, the assumption is working 2,080 hours.

$19057 ÷ 2080 hours = $9.16 per hour

After estimated taxes and FICA, you are netting $9.16 an hour. That is $2.84 an hour less than what you planned.

This is a very highlighted example and can vary greatly depending on your personal situation. Therefore, here is a great tool to help you figure out how much your net paycheck would be.

$12 an Hour Budget Example

You are probably wondering can I live on my own making 12 dollars an hour? How much rent can you afford on 12 an hour?

Using our Cents Plan Formula, this is the best case scenario on how to budget your $12 per hour paycheck.

When using these percentages, it is best to use net income because taxes must be paid.

In this example, above we calculated $12 an hour was $9.16 after taxes. That would average $1588 per month.

According to the Cents Plan Formula, here is the high level view of a $12 per hour budget:

Basic Expenses of 50% = $794
Save Money of 20% = $318
Give Money of 10% = $159
Fun Spending of 20% = $318
Debt of 0% = $0

Obviously, that is not doable when living so close to minimum wage. So, you have to be strategic on ways to decrease your basic expenses and debt. Then, it will allow you more money to save and fun spending.

To further break down an example budget of $12 per hour, then using the ideal household percentages is extremely helpful.

recommended budget percentages based on $12 per hour wage:

Category	Ideal Percentages	Sample Monthly Budget
Giving	10%	$62
Savings	15-25%	$104
Housing	20-30%	$645
Utilities	4-7%	$125
Groceries	5-12%	$187
Clothing	1-4%	$21
Transportation	4-10%	$125
Medical	5-12%	$208
Life Insurance	1%	$18
Education	1-4%	$10
Personal	2-7%	$31
Recreation / Entertainment	3-8%	$52
Debts	0% – Goal	$0
Government Tax (including Income Tatumx, Social Security & Medicare)	15-25%	$492
Total Gross Income		$2,080

^**^{In this budget, prioritization was given to basic expenses. Thus, some categories like giving and saving were less.}

$12 an Hour Calculator

Now, you get to figure out how much you make based on your hours worked or if you make a wage between $12.01-12.99.

Here is a handy calculator to use if you make $12.60, $12.30, or $12.75 an hour.

Living on $12 Per Hour

Living close to minimum wage can be a very difficult situation.

Is it doable? Probably not for long.

You just have to be wiser (or frugal) with your money and how you spend the hard-earned cash you have been blessed with.

A lot of times when people are making under near the minimum wage mark, they feel like they are in this constant cycle that they can never keep up with (which completely makes sense it is hard!).

When your thoughts are constantly focused on how you are struggling to keep up with bills and expenses, that is all you focus on.

You need to realize that your mindset is everything.

This is what you say to yourself… Okay, I am making near minimum wage for now. I have aspirations and goals to increase how much I make. For now, I am going to make sure that I am able to live on my 12 dollars per hour. I’m going to try and avoid debt and payday loans at all costs.

Other Tips to Help You:

Check your minimum wage for your state and city. You might find a higher minimum wage in a nearby city.
Look to living in a lower cost of living area to stretch your money.
Find ways to minizine your basic expenses.
Thrive with a minimalist lifestyle.
Decide if a roommate or moving back with your parents would help.
Bike or walk to work.

In the next section, we will dig into ways to increase your income, but for now, you must focus on living on $12 an hour.

5 Ways to Increase Your Hourly Wage

This right here is the most important section of this post.

You need to figure out ways to increase your hourly income because I’m going to tell you…you deserve more. You do a good job and your value is higher than what your employers pay you.

Even an increase of 50 cents to $12.50 will add up over the year. Even better $13 an hour or $15 an hour!

1. Ask for a Raise

The first thing to do is ask for a raise. Walk right in and ask for a raise because you never know what the answer will be until you ask.

If you want the best tips on how specifically to ask for a raise and what the average wage is for somebody doing your job, then check out this book. In this book, the author gives you the exact way to increase your income. The purchase is worth it or go down to the library and check that book out.

2. Look for A New Job

Another way to increase your hourly wage is to look for a new job. Maybe a completely new industry.

It might be a total change for you, but many times, if you want to change your financial situation, then that starts with a career change. Maybe you’re stressed out at work. Making $12 an hour is too much for you and you’re not able to enjoy life, maybe changing jobs and finding another job may increase your pay, but it will also increase your quality of life.

3. Find a New Career

Because of student loans, too many employees feel like they are stuck in the career field they chose. They feel sucked into the job that they don’t like or have the potential they thought it would.

For many years, I was in the same situation until I decided to do a complete career change. I am glad I did. I have the flexibility that I needed in my life to do what I wanted when I needed to do it. Plus I am able to enjoy my entrepreneurial spirit.

4. Find Alternative Ways to Make Money

In today’s society, you need to find ways to make more money. Period.

There is no way to get around it. You need to find additional income outside a traditional nine to five position or typical 40-hour-a-week job. You will reach a point where you are maxed on what you can make in your current position or title. There may be some advancement to move forward, but in many cases, there just is not much room for growth.

So, you need to find a side hustle – another way to make money.

Do something that you enjoy, turn your hobby into a way to make money, turn something that you naturally do, and help others into a service business. In today’s society, the sky is the limit on how you can earn a freelancing income.

5. Earn Passive Income

The last way to increase your hourly wage is to start earning passive income.

This can be from a variety of ways including the stock market, real estate, online courses, book sales, etc. This is where the differentiation between struggling financially and being financially sound happens.

By earning money passively, you are able to do the things that you enjoy doing and not be loaded down, with having a job that you need to work, and a place that you have to go to. And you still make money doing nothing.

Here is an example:

You can start a brokerage account and start trading stocks for $50. You need to learn and take the one and only investing class I recommend. Learn how the market works, watch videos, and practice in a simulator before you start using your own money.

One gentleman started with $5,000 in his trading account and now has well over $75,000 in a year. Just from practice and being consistent, he has learned that passive income is the way for him to increase his income and also not be a slave to his job.

Tips to Live on $12 an Hour

In this last section, grasp these tips on how to live on $12 an hour. On our site, you can find lots of money saving tips to help stretch your income further.

Here are the most important tips to live on $12 an hour. Highlight these!

1. Spend Less Than you Make

First, you must learn to spend less than you make.

If not you will be caught in the debt cycle and that is not where you want to be. You will be consistently living paycheck to paycheck.

In order to break that dreadful cycle, it means your expenses must be less than your income.

And when I say income, it’s not the $12 an hour. As we talked about earlier in the post, there are taxes. The amount of taxes taken out of your paycheck is called your net income which is your home $12 an hour minus all the taxes, FICA, social security, and Medicare are taken out. That is your net income.

So, your net income has to be less than your net income.

2. Living Below Your Means

You need to be happy. And living on less can actually make you happier. Studies prove that less is better.

Finding contentment in life is one thing that is a struggle for most.

We are driven to want the new shiny toy, the thing next door, the stuff your friend or family member got. Our society has trained you that you need these things as well.

Have you ever taken a step back and looked at what you really need?

Once you are able to find contentment with life, then you are going to be set for the long term with your finances.

Here is our story on owning less stuff. We have been happier since.

3. Make Saving Money Fun

You need to make saving money fun. Period.

It could be participating in a no spend challenge for the month.
Check out the 200 envelope challenge (which is doable on your income)
It could be challenging friends not to go to Target for a week.
Maybe changing your habits and not picking up takeout and planning meals.
Whatever it is challenge yourself.

Find new ways of saving money and have fun with it.

Even better, get your family and kids involved in the challenge to save money. Tell them the reason why you are saving money and this is what you are doing.

Here are 101 things to do with no money. Free activities without costing you a dime. That is an amazing resource for you and you will never be bored.

And you will learn a lot of things in life you can do for free. Personally, some of the best ones are getting outside and enjoying some fresh air.

4. Make More Money

If you want if you do not settle for less, then find ways to make more money. If you want more out of life, then increase your income.

You need to be an advocate for yourself.

Find ways to make more money.

It could be a side hustle, a second job, asking for a raise, going to school to change careers, or picking up extra hours.

Whatever path you take, that’s fine. Just find ways to make more money. Period.

5. No State Taxes

Paying taxes is one option to increase what you take home in each paycheck.

These are the states that don’t pay state income taxes on wages:

Alaska
Florida
Nevada
New Hampshire
South Dakota
Tennessee
Texas
Washington
Wyoming

It is very interesting if you take into account the amount of state taxes paid compared to a state with income taxes.

Also, if you live in one of the higher taxed states, then you may want to reconsider moving to a lower cost of living area. The higher taxes income tax states include California, Hawaii, New Jersey, Oregon, Minnesota, the District of Columbia, New York, Vermont, Iowa, and Wisconsin. These states tax income somewhere between 7.65% – 13.3%.

6. Stick to a Budget

You need to learn how to start a budget. We have tons budgeting resources for you.

While creating a budget is great, you need to learn how to use one.

You do not have to budget down to every last penny.

You need to make sure your expenses are less than your income and you are creating sinking funds for those irregular expenses.

Budget Help:

7. Pay Off Debt Quickly

The amount that you pay interest on debt is absolutely absurd.

Unfortunately, that is how many of these companies make their money from the interest you pay on debt.

If you are paying 5% to even 20-21% or higher, you need to find ways to lower that debt quickly.

Here’s a debt calculator to help you. Figure out your debt free date.

Make that paying off debt fast is your target and main focus. I can tell you from personal experience, it was not until week paid off our debt that we finally rounded the corner financially. Once our debt was paid off, we could finally be able to save money. Set money aside in separate bank accounts and pay for cash for things.

It took us working hard to pay off debt. We needed persistence and patience while we had setbacks in our debt free journey.

Jobs that Pay $12 an Hour

You can always find jobs that pay $12 per hour. Polish up that smile, fill out the application and be prepared with your interview skills.

Job Search Hint: Always send a written follow-up thank you note for your interview. That will help you get noticed and remembered.

First, look at the cities that require a minimum wage in their cities. That is the best place to start to find jobs that are going to pay higher than the federal minimum wage rate. Many of the cities are moving towards this model so, target and look for jobs in those areas.

Possible Ideas for Jobs Paying $12 an hour:

Cashiers
Back of the house restaurant staff
Landscape Laborer
Retail jobs
Virtual Assistant – learn how to get started now!
Paraeducators at schools
Janitors
Farm help
Warehouse workers
Call center
Hotel Housekeeper
Delivery driver
Product demonstrator
Caregiver
Busser at restaurants

companies paying $12 an hour

Target
Amazon
Walgreens
Great Wolf Lodge
Olive Garden
Sonic

$12 Per Hour Annual Salary

In this post, we detailed 12 an hour is how much a year. Plus all of the variables that can impact your net income. This is something that you can live off.

How much is 12 dollars an hour annually…

$24,960

This is under $30000 per year and you need to make at least $38k a year.

In this post, we highlighted ways to increase your income as well as tips for living off your wage.

Use the sample budget as a starting point with your expenses.

You will have to be savvy and wise with your hard-earned income. But, with a plan, anything is possible!

Spend your time wisely and make money doing it. All of these quick ways to make money are simple and easy to do!

Photo Credit:
www.swagbucks.com

Save money with coupons, promo codes, sales and cashback when you shop for clothes, electronics, travel, groceries, gifts & homeware. Get free gift cards and cash for the everyday things you do online.

Photo Credit:
www.rover.com

Get paid to play with pets! Earn money doing something you love.

Rover makes it easy and promotes you to the nation’s largest network of pet owners.

Shop smarter with Rakuten: Earn Cash Back at 2500+ stores or shop the marketplace for electronics, clothing, games, sporting goods, and more.

Photo Credit:
www.fetchrewards.com

Fetch Rewards is a free grocery savings app that rewards you just for snapping pictures of your receipts. That’s really it.

Free rewards on groceries on thousands of products every day, no matter where you get your groceries. Just scan your receipts and cash in!

Photo Credit:
www.earnwithdrop.com

Drop is the free app that’s giving out millions in cash rewards for the spending you do every day.

Photo Credit:
moneybliss.org

Whether you’re buying groceries, chowing down on takeout, or giving your wardrobe a serious upgrade, start with Ibotta and earn cash back on thousands of in-store and online offers.

Source: moneybliss.org

PayPal alternatives overview

Venmo

Wise

Google Pay

Payoneer

Square

Stripe

ProPay

Zelle

Cash App

Apple Pay

Benefits of online payment apps

Features to look for in a payment app

Summary

Read more:

Overview: 10 best payment apps

Google Pay: Best for Google users

Apple Pay: Best for Apple users

Samsung Pay: Best for Samsung users

PayPal: Best for low-fee transactions

Xoom: Best for sending money to other countries

Venmo: Best for sending small amounts of money

Western Union: Best for sending small amounts internationally

Cash App: Best for easy account setup

Zelle: Best for credit union members

What are payment apps?

Payment apps allow you to make payments using your phone

Payment apps allow you to send money to friends and family

What to look for in a payment app

Compatibility

Fees

Limits

Security

Summary

Read more:

Have Digit trick you into saving more money.

Use Bluehost to start a blog.

Switch to Republic Wireless and save money on your cell phone.

Shop with Ebates and get cash back.

Plan your meals with $5 Meal Plan.

Take surveys for extra money.

Get rewarded for being online.

Improve your credit score with Credit Sesame.

Use Personal Capital to manage your finances better.

Save money by shopping with Flipp.

Cancel cable and get a digital antenna.

Refinance your student loans with Credible.

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3. Food.

4. Cable.

5. Extra warranties.

6. Bank accounts with fees.

7. Debt.

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What makes this credit card different?

What are my chances of getting approved?

All the details of the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Card

Rates and fees

Perks and rewards

How to apply

Contact info

Other stuff you should know

Alternative credit cards to the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Card Credit Card

How do you determine which credit card is right for you?

Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Card FAQ

Can I pool my Southwest miles with someone else’s?

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Can I redeem my Southwest points for things other than flights?

Why choose the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Card?

Create and stick to a holiday budget.

Plan a group gift exchange.

Earn extra money for your holiday spending.

Shop early.

Find the best deals.

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