Skip to main content

ads3

What Happens to Unused 529 Funds? Exploring Your Options

  Hold onto your wallets, future scholars, and savvy savers! We're about to dive deep into a topic that's often shrouded in mystery, whispered about in hushed tones, and generally treated like the financial equivalent of the Bermuda Triangle: What in the actual heck happens to your unused 529 funds? Spoiler alert: They don't just vanish into a black hole of regret and lost potential. You, the diligent parent, the visionary grandparent, the super-aunt who believes in education more than anyone else, you did the right thing. You socked away money into a 529 college savings plan – that glorious, tax-advantaged unicorn of investment vehicles. You dreamed of tuition bills magically shrinking, of textbooks being bought without a single bead of sweat, of your precious protégé strolling across a graduation stage debt-free. But then, life, as it so often does, pulled a plot twist worthy of a Hasan Minhaj special. Maybe little Timmy got a full-ride scholarship to Harvard (go Timmy!)...
Post a Comment

Unlocking Amazon Savings: Your Ultimate Guide to Smart Shopping

 


Ever felt like your wallet's been practicing vanishing acts after an Amazon spree? Fear not! With a sprinkle of strategy and a dash of humor, let's turn you into a savvy shopper extraordinaire. Ready to embark on this money-saving adventure? Let's dive in!

1. Embrace the Power of Amazon Prime

Imagine having a golden ticket that grants you free shipping, exclusive deals, and a treasure trove of entertainment. That's Amazon Prime for you! Beyond the well-known perks, did you know Prime members can access:

  • Prime Try Before You Buy: Test out fashion items before committing.
  • Amazon Photos: Unlimited photo storage to keep those memories safe.
  • Prime Reading: Dive into a vast library of e-books and magazines.

Tip: If you're not a member yet, consider the 30-day free trial. Students and those on government assistance might qualify for discounted rates. 

2. Clip Those Digital Coupons

Remember the joy of clipping coupons from newspapers? Amazon brings that nostalgia to the digital age. Head over to the Amazon Coupons page to find discounts on a plethora of products. Simply "clip" the coupon, and watch the savings apply at checkout. It's like finding hidden treasure in the vast Amazon jungle!

3. Subscribe, Save, and Smile

For items you purchase regularly—be it pet food, toiletries, or gourmet coffee—Amazon's Subscribe & Save program offers up to 15% off and free shipping. Set your desired delivery schedule, and let the savings roll in. Plus, you'll never face the dreaded "We're out of toilet paper!" crisis again.

4. Explore Amazon's Secret Sections

  • Amazon Warehouse: Find deals on open-box and pre-owned items, all inspected and certified by Amazon.
  • Amazon Outlet: Discover overstocked items at discounted prices. It's like the clearance rack of the digital world.
  • Amazon Renewed: Shop refurbished electronics and gadgets that come with a warranty, ensuring quality without the hefty price tag.

5. Set Up Price Alerts

Prices on Amazon can fluctuate more than a rollercoaster. Utilize tools like CamelCamelCamel to track price histories and set alerts for drops. This way, you buy when the price is just right, much like Goldilocks finding her perfect porridge.

6. Time Your Purchases

Black Friday and Cyber Monday aren't the only days for deals. Amazon frequently offers Lightning Deals and Daily Deals. Keep an eye on these time-sensitive discounts to snag products at a fraction of the cost. Pro tip: Prime members often get early access to these deals.

7. Trade-In and Trade-Up

Got old electronics gathering dust? Amazon's Trade-In program lets you exchange them for gift cards. It's an eco-friendly way to declutter and fund your next purchase. Even non-functional devices might fetch a value! 

8. Leverage Credit Card Rewards

The Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card offers 5% back on Amazon and Whole Foods purchases for Prime members. Additionally, you earn 2% back at restaurants, gas stations, and drugstores. It's like getting paid to shop!

9. Shop Internationally with Caution

For our global readers, shopping on Amazon's international sites can lead to significant savings. However, be mindful of:

  • Shipping Costs: They can add up quickly.
  • Import Duties: Some items may incur additional taxes.
  • Voltage Differences: Ensure electronics are compatible with your country's standards.

10. Avoid Impulse Purchases

A clever hack making waves involves taking a screenshot of an item you want, then waiting 24 hours before purchasing. This cooling-off period helps determine if it's a need or a fleeting want. Many have found this method reduces unnecessary spending.

Suggested Reading and Tools

  • "14 Tricks to Save Money on Amazon Orders": Dive deeper into savvy shopping strategies. 
  • CamelCamelCamel: Track Amazon price histories and set alerts.
  • Honey: A browser extension that automatically applies coupon codes at checkout.
  • Fluz: Earn cashback on your Amazon purchases by buying gift cards through the app.

Remember, savvy shopping isn't about depriving yourself but making informed choices. With these tips, you're well on your way to becoming an Amazon savings maestro. Happy shopping!

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

YNAB Cost: Is It Worth the Investment for Your Budget? 💳📊

Budgeting tools aren’t free… or are they? Let’s talk about whether YNAB’s price tag delivers real value for your money—or if you’re better off sticking with free options. When it comes to budgeting apps, YNAB (You Need a Budget) is like the cool kid in town. It’s smart, efficient, and has helped thousands of people break the paycheck-to-paycheck cycle . But unlike some other budgeting tools, YNAB isn’t free. So, the big question is: Is it worth the cost? Let’s break down the price, what you’re getting for your money, and whether it’s the right tool for your budget. How Much Does YNAB Cost? 💸 YNAB offers a subscription-based pricing model , and here’s the latest breakdown: Monthly Plan: $14.99/month Annual Plan: $99/year (billed annually)—that’s a savings of about $80 per year compared to the monthly option. For new users, YNAB offers a 34-day free trial —no credit card required. That gives you a full month to see if it’s a game-changer for your finances. Is It Expens...
Post a Comment
Read more

How to Build a Personal Finance Plan Using the Baskets Saving Method

Introduction Managing money without a plan is like trying to juggle with your eyes closed—it’s messy and stressful. One of the smartest ways to take control of your finances is by using the Baskets Saving Method , a simple yet powerful strategy that helps you allocate your income into different categories. This approach ensures your money is working for you, covering both needs and future goals. Let’s break down how to create a personal finance plan using this method! What is the Baskets Saving Method? The Baskets Saving Method involves dividing your income into different "baskets" (or accounts) based on specific financial goals. Instead of keeping all your money in one lump sum, you allocate it strategically to ensure financial stability and growth. Step 1: Identify Your Financial Baskets Here are some key baskets you should consider: Essentials Basket (50-60% of Income) – Covers rent/mortgage, utilities, groceries, transportation, and insurance. This ensures you...
Post a Comment
Read more

How to Create a Monthly Budget That Actually Works

  "I’ll never forget the day I realized I had no idea where my money was going. I was standing in line at the grocery store, credit card in hand, praying it wouldn’t be declined. Payday was still a week away, and my bank account balance was a terrifying $12.56. I had a good job, steady income, and yet I felt completely out of control. That’s when I decided something had to change." Sound familiar? If you’ve ever felt like your money disappears as soon as it hits your account, you’re not alone. Budgeting can feel like a chore—or worse, a restriction—but when done right, it’s the exact opposite. A budget isn’t about limiting your freedom; it’s about giving you the freedom to spend on what truly matters to you. In this post, I’ll walk you through step-by-step how I created a monthly budget that not only works but also allowed me to save for my goals and finally feel in control of my finances. Let’s dive in! Step 1: Face Your Finances (Yes, Even If It’s Scary) I’ll be hone...
Post a Comment
Read more