19 Dumbest Things Smart People Waste Money On

Innocent Daily Conveniences: Simple things that drain your bank account

Daily Coffee Runs: Fair to say it’s okay to get a little treat every once in a while. But a $6 latte every morning runs up to $2,000 a year. $2,000! You could buy a high-end espresso machine with that cash and still come out ahead.

The Lottery and Get-Rich-Quick Gimmicks: The lottery isn’t a financial plan, and no, that $1,500 online course won’t make you a millionaire. Focus on real wealth-building strategies.

Premium Gas for Cars That Don’t Need It: If your car doesn’t specifically require premium gas, you’re just wasting money. It won’t make your engine last longer or improve performance.

Credit Card Debt: Our team is obsessed with this no annual fee card that lets you pay no interest into 2028

If you're struggling to pay down high interest debt (or you're planning a major purchase this year), this might be the exact thing you need. There's a card that allows you to pause credit card interest into 2028 ... and it could have a bigger impact than you think.

Discover it^® Cash Back (Rates and fees) is an extremely powerful card that gives you 0% intro APR for an astounding 15 months on purchases and balance transfers. (Then APR is 18.74% - 28.74% (Variable); Balance transfer fee applies.) That's right — you could finance large purchases you've been sitting on without paying massive interest. Or, transfer crippling high interest debt to this card and let your payments go directly to paying down your balance, without piling on additional interest charges — all with no annual fee.

But it doesn't end there. The Discover it^® Cash Back card also lets you earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases. Plus, receive a $200 statement credit when you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months of account opening. Plus, Discover will match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year (terms apply).

Apply now for the Discover it^® Cash Back card

Skipping a Bonus: Set up direct deposit - pocket up to $400

Set up an eligible direct deposit with SoFi Checking and Savings and you could pocket a bonus of $50 or $400.¹ <p>New and existing Checking and Savings members who have not previously enrolled in Direct Deposit with SoFi are eligible to earn a cash bonus of either $50 (with at least $1,000 total Eligible Direct&nbsp;Deposits received within 25 calendar days of your first Eligible Direct Deposit of $1 or more) OR $400 (with at least $5,000 total Eligible Direct Deposits received within 25 calendar days of your first Eligible&nbsp;Direct Deposit of $1 or more). Cash bonus amount will be based on the total amount of Eligible Direct Deposit received within 25 calendar days of your first Eligible Direct Deposit of $1 or more. If you have&nbsp;satisfied the Eligible Direct Deposit requirements but have not received a cash bonus in your Checking account, please contact us at 855-456-7634 with the details of your Eligible Direct Deposit. Direct&nbsp;Deposit Promotion begins on 5/15/2026 and will be available through 12/31/2026. Full terms at <a href="https://www.sofi.com/banking/">sofi.com/banking</a>. SoFi Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A., Member FDIC.&nbsp;SoFi members with Eligible Direct Deposit can earn 3.30% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. There is no minimum Eligible Direct&nbsp;Deposit amount required to qualify for the 3.30% APY for savings (including Vaults). Members without Eligible Direct Deposit will earn 0.80% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on&nbsp;checking balances. Interest rates are variable and subject to change at any time. These rates are current as of 9/23/26. Fees may reduce earnings. Additional information can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://d32ijn7u0aqfv4.cloudfront.net/wp/wp-content/uploads/raw/SoFi-Bank-Rate-Sheet-September-23-2026.pdf">http://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet</a>.</p> Make the switch, set up eligible direct deposit, earn the bonus. It basically takes no extra work at all other than following these steps. 

Why people are switching: This account earns up to an insane 4.40% APY² <p>Earn up to 4.40% Annual Percentage Yield (APY) on one SoFi Savings account with a 1.10% APY Boost (added to the 3.30% APY as of 10/20/26) for up to 6 months. Open your first SoFi Checking and Savings account and receive eligible direct deposits OR qualifying deposits of $5,000 every 31 days by 12/31/27. Rates are variable, subject to change. Terms apply at <a href="https://www.sofi.com/banking/#4">sofi.com/banking#4</a>. SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC.</p> on savings for up to six months on new accounts (3.30% APY standard + 1.10% APY boost; terms apply) on top of that $50 or $400 bonus.¹ <p>New and existing Checking and Savings members who have not previously enrolled in Direct Deposit with SoFi are eligible to earn a cash bonus of either $50 (with at least $1,000 total Eligible Direct&nbsp;Deposits received within 25 calendar days of your first Eligible Direct Deposit of $1 or more) OR $400 (with at least $5,000 total Eligible Direct Deposits received within 25 calendar days of your first Eligible&nbsp;Direct Deposit of $1 or more). Cash bonus amount will be based on the total amount of Eligible Direct Deposit received within 25 calendar days of your first Eligible Direct Deposit of $1 or more. If you have&nbsp;satisfied the Eligible Direct Deposit requirements but have not received a cash bonus in your Checking account, please contact us at 855-456-7634 with the details of your Eligible Direct Deposit. Direct&nbsp;Deposit Promotion begins on 5/15/2026 and will be available through 12/31/2026. Full terms at <a href="https://www.sofi.com/banking/">sofi.com/banking</a>. SoFi Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A., Member FDIC.&nbsp;SoFi members with Eligible Direct Deposit can earn 3.30% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. There is no minimum Eligible Direct&nbsp;Deposit amount required to qualify for the 3.30% APY for savings (including Vaults). Members without Eligible Direct Deposit will earn 0.80% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on&nbsp;checking balances. Interest rates are variable and subject to change at any time. These rates are current as of 9/23/26. Fees may reduce earnings. Additional information can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://d32ijn7u0aqfv4.cloudfront.net/wp/wp-content/uploads/raw/SoFi-Bank-Rate-Sheet-September-23-2026.pdf">http://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet</a>.</p> That's way better than the measly 0.38% APY (as of 06/15/26)³ <p>Based on <a href="https://www.fdic.gov/national-rates-and-rate-caps">this</a> FDIC data, as of 6/15/26.</p> national average savings accounts offer. 

No monthly fees and no surprises. Open your account and earn up to a $400 bonus

Skipping This Card: Earn a $200 bonus for spending $500

Spend just $500 in the first 3 months from account opening with the Chase Freedom Unlimited^®(Rates and fees) and you could earn a $200 bonus. That's one of the best spend-to-bonus ratios we've ever seen. The bonus is worth almost half the spend.

No complicated requirements. Apply here, and if you get approved, hit $500 spend in the first 3 months, earn $200. Boom. You can also earn cash back on everything you buy: 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

Need to finance a big purchase or knock out high-interest debt? You also get 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months from account opening. After the intro period, the APR is 18.49% - 27.99% Variable. This card is a sleeper hit with insane value and NO annual fee. Good or excellent credit (typically 670 or higher) is recommended.

Click here to apply now and earn your $200 bonus 

Limited Time Offer: Earn a $250 Bonus with this no annual fee card

Right now the Chase Freedom Flex^®(Rates and fees) lets you earn a $250 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening (limited-time offer). 

In addition to this welcome offer, this card lets you earn cash back on everything you buy. Earn 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate. Enjoy new 5% categories each quarter! Plus, earn 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3% on dining and drugstores, and 1% on all other purchases.

And it gets better (really): This card also gives you 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months. That means you could finance large purchases or pay down high-interest debt for over a year. After the intro period, the APR is 18.49% - 27.99% Variable. Oh, and the annual fee is $0. 

It's almost a no-brainer to apply — this card might the best-in-class amongst similarly-featured credit cards, especially with the bonus.  

Good or excellent credit (typically 670 or higher) is recommended.

Click here to Apply Now to the Chase Freedom Flex^®

Paying too Much on Your Mortgage: Save an average of $28,000 over the life of your loan (including refinancing)

Too many homeowners overpay on a mortgage they could have easily refinanced. You don’t have time to call around and compare, so you stay with the loan you have. But now a free service will do it all for you — and it could put an average of $28,000 back in your pocket.

It's called Own Up. It compares refinance offers from top-rated lenders, so they compete for your business and could help you find a good refinance deal.⁴ <p>Own Up is a mortgage lead-generation and comparison service. RateGravity, Inc. d/b/a Own Up arranges introductions to participating lenders but does not make loans or credit decisions. Own Up is compensated by participating lenders. Own Up matches you with participating lenders based on your profile. Lender participation varies and does not guarantee multiple offers or competitive bidding. Not all lenders, products, or shopping experiences are available, and availability may vary by consumer profile and loan program. Rates, terms, and availability vary. Lender ratings reflect consumer reviews and/or third-party data. RateGravity, Inc. d/b/a Own Up NMLS #1450805. For consumer information, visit <a href="https://www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org">www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org.</a></p> There’s no hard credit pull⁵ <p>Exploring options with Own Up does not require a hard credit inquiry; however, a lender may require a hard inquiry and additional personal information, including a Social Security number, to proceed with an application.</p> and you get to compare options side by side, almost instantly.⁶ <p>Shopping experiences is offered to select customers only, your interaction with Own Up might not include shopping experience. Not all lenders or products are available, and availability may vary by consumer profile and loan program. Rates, terms, and availability vary.</p>

Think about it this way: On a hypothetical $400,000 mortgage at 7.00% APR, you'd pay over $558,000 in interest over 30 years. Drop that rate just half a percent to 6.50% APR and you'd pay around $510,000. That's about $48,000 back in your pocket, just from shopping around for a better rate.⁷ <p>For illustration purposes only. Rates shown are not offers of credit.</p>

Own Up customers save on average $28,000 over the life of their loan,⁸ <p>Savings are not guaranteed. Results vary based on borrower qualifications, loan terms, fees, and market conditions. See <a href="https://www.ownup.com/methodology">ownup.com/methodology</a> to see how the savings were calculated. and it costs you absolutely nothing to find out how much you'd save by refinancing. See what you could qualify for at the link below before you make another payment at your current rate.

Check your refinance rates 100% free here

High-Interest Debt: See if your credit card debt is eligible for this debt relief program

If you have more than $30,000 in debt from credit cards, medical bills, collections, or personal loans, National Debt Relief's certified debt specialists may be able to help you consolidate your debt into one low monthly program payment.

Best of all? There are zero fees until your debt is settled, and you could be debt-free in 24-48 months. To get started, just answer a few simple questions. It only takes 30 seconds to see if you qualify!⁹ <p>Please note that all calls with the company may be recorded or monitored for quality assurance and training purposes. Clients who are able to stay with the program and get all their debt settled realize approximate savings of 45% before fees, or 20% including our fees, over 24 to 48 months. All claims are based on enrolled debts. Not all debts are eligible for enrollment. Not all clients complete our program for various reasons, including their ability to save sufficient funds. Estimates based on prior results, which will vary based on specific circumstances. We do not guarantee that your debts will be lowered by a specific amount or percentage or that you will be debt-free within a specific period of time. We do not assume consumer debt, make monthly payments to creditors or provide tax, bankruptcy, accounting or legal advice or credit repair services. Not available in all states. Please contact a tax professional to discuss tax consequences of settlement. Please consult with a bankruptcy attorney for more information on bankruptcy. Depending on your state, we may be available to recommend a local tax professional and/or bankruptcy attorney. Read and understand all program materials prior to enrollment, including potential adverse impact on credit rating. "Debt-Free" applies only to enrolled credit cards, personal loans, and medical bills. Not mortgages, car loans, or other debts. Results vary.</p>

See if your $30k+ in credit card debt is eligible for National Debt Relief

Paying Full Price on Travel and Restaurants: Not retired? You can still join AARP for massive discounts and your first year is just $15

Think AARP is only for retirees? It isn't. Anyone 18 or older can join, and your first year costs just $15 (about $1.25 a month)! An AARP membership gets you massive discounts on:

• Restaurants (save up to $450 per year!)
• Airfare, hotels, cruises and rental cars
• Meal deliveries
• UPS shipping
• Eyeglasses and even prescriptions that aren't covered by insurance

Plus you'll also get insider info on health and wellness and you can add a partner for free. That’s twice the perks and potentially hundreds saved for just $15. It basically pays for itself.

Joining takes about two minutes:

1. Click the link below, choose your free welcome gift, and select "Join Today"
2. Create your account by answering a few quick questions
3. Start enjoying your discounts and perks!

Join AARP for only $15 your first year (renews at $20/yr). Start saving today.

Mindless Recurring Expenses: Don’t pay for what you don’t use

Storage Units: If you haven’t needed it in a year, why are you paying rent for it? Sell it, donate it, or admit you’re just hoarding junk in a different location.

Expensive Gym Memberships: If you’re not going at least twice a week, just cancel it already. Home workouts, outdoor runs, and basic weights could get you 90% of the same results for free.

Bottled Water: Can’t believe we even have to say this. But if you have access to clean tap water, you’re wasting money every time you buy a bottle. Get a reusable one and stop paying for something that’s essentially free.

Services and Upgrades: Do you really need these things to be happy?

Sneaky Subscriptions: Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, Max, Apple TV, Paramount+ … chances are you’re not even watching half of these. Cut it out. Choose one or two and stop auto-renewing free trials you forgot about.

Upgrading to the Latest iPhone: Unless your phone is literally falling apart, there’s no reason to drop $1,000+ on a new one just because Apple added a slightly better camera. Your current phone is fine.

Designer Clothes and Sneakers: Dropping $300 on the latest sneakers or fast fashion trends just to keep up? You’re only filling your closet with overpriced clutter. Invest in quality, sure — but not hype and status.

Spending $1,000s to Repair Water Damage: How Ohio homeowners are preventing roof rot, mold, and foundation damage for good

Most homeowners think of gutters as just a cleaning chore. The bigger risk is what happens when they clog. Overflowing gutters can lead to water damage, roof rot, mold, even foundation problems, the kind of repairs that run into the thousands.

If you own a home in Ohio, HomeBuddy offers a powerful, one-of-a-kind gutter guard built to prevent exactly that. Their micromesh filter keeps common debris out, so your gutters stay clear and your home stays protected. And because it actually works, you may be able to stop hiring gutter cleaners altogether. The company will even clean out and realign your gutters before they install.

Don't waste money on cheap, ineffective guards that claim to be clog-free. This one's built to last.

See if you qualify today: Click the link below, enter your ZIP code and home info, and a representative will reach out to schedule a free estimate.

See if you qualify

Pricey Home Security Systems: Help protect your home for a fraction of what a break-in costs (perfect for Ohio residents)

Studies suggest a break-in happens about every 26 seconds in the U.S., and one average costs homeowners around $2,661.¹⁰ <p>Average break-in cost around $2,661: FBI 2019 burglary data (figure is dated, confirm current). Break-in about every 26 seconds: The Zebra. $100 gift card and free installation: subject to SafeStreets / Visa Reward Card terms (new customers, 36-month monitoring agreement).</p> But if you live in Ohio you could help protect it for a fraction of that cost.

SafeStreets is actively helping homeowners protect what matters most. Their security experts install a custom system with 24/7 monitoring that can help deter break-ins and give you peace of mind day and night.

Cut the cost of protecting your home by tapping into SafeStreets’ extremely low cost starting at just $49.99/month¹¹ <p>$99-$299.00 Customer Installation Charge. 36-Month Monitoring Agreement required starting at $49.99 per month ($1,799.64). 24-Month Monitoring Agreement required per month for California ($1,199.76). Minimum $199 installation charge required for California. Form of payment must be by credit card or electronic charge to your checking or savings account. Early termination fees apply. Offer applies to homeowners only. Local permit fees may be required. Satisfactory credit history required. Certain restrictions may apply. Offer valid for new ADT Authorized Provider customers only and not on purchases from ADT LLC. Other rate plans available. Cannot be combined with any other offer.</p> with free professional installation, around-the-clock monitoring, and maintenance and extended warranty fully included.

Complete this short form to get a free quote

Tax Debt: Ask this company to help you pay off your late tax debt

Past-due tax debt is overwhelming.

It weighs on your mind and causes massive anxiety. You end up emotionally and physically drained. Even worse when the IRS starts sending letters threatening wage garnishment and huge fines.

Alleviate Tax is designed specifically to help you get out of tax debt faster and could reduce some of the debt you owe.

While most tax companies just put you on a payment plan and file your taxes for you, Alleviate Tax talks to the IRS directly. They can help you pay off your tax debt faster while potentially reducing what you owe.

Important: Not everyone will qualify. To take advantage of this special program you must owe more than $10,000 in past-due taxes.

Answer a few questions to get started

Compare prices on new windows: Ohio homeowners could pay less

Old windows drive up your home's electric bill. But if you live in Ohio and your windows are 5+ years old, you could save.

Modernize connects senior homeowners with top local pros who install high-quality, energy-efficient windows that could help reduce energy bills and improve comfort.

They make it easy to compare quotes and find the best price on your window replacement. The entire process is hassle free.

Get started now if you check these 3 boxes:

1. You own your home.
2. Your windows are 5+ years old.
3. You live in an available ZIP code.

Get your free quote to get started

Earn 75,000 bonus points — worth up to $1,125 towards travel

If you're planning a trip, apply for the Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card (Rates and fees) here and you can earn 75,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 in the first 3 months — that's worth up to $1,125 toward travel through Chase Travel℠!

Plus, earn 5X points on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠; 3X points on dining, vacation homes at top brands, gas & EV charging, top streaming services, and online groceries (excluding Walmart, Target, and wholesale clubs); 2X points on all other travel purchases, and 1X points on all other purchases — with a low annual fee of $95 and no foreign transaction fee.

The card could pay for itself quickly: you'll earn up to $100 Chase Travel hotel credit each anniversary year, get a complimentary year of Apple TV (a $180 value, must activate by 12/31/26), and up to $120 toward Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or NEXUS every four years.

If you travel even once a year, this card could net you $100s in rewards to use toward travel. Don't delay. Apply today!

Click here to apply for the Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card now

Recommended Credit Score FinanceBuzz credit ranges are a variation of FICO®️ scores, one of many types of credit score lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Good

670-739

Excellent

740-850

Market Volatility: Diversify your hard-earned retirement savings with gold

GoldTrustGuide is actively helping Americans find greater retirement security with precious metal investments like gold. In fact, from 2005 to 2020, the price of gold increased by 330%. And during the stock market crash of 2008, the value of gold increased by 25%.¹² <p><a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/conormurray/2026/01/28/gold-price-surpasses-record-5300-amid-weakening-dollar-fed-independence-concerns/">Source</a></p> They match you with top-rated providers offering physical gold and silver IRAs with a proven track record during unstable markets.¹³ <p>Investments carry risk, including loss of principal. Past performance is not a guarantee of future performance.</p>

Protect your savings today in 3 easy steps:

1. Answer 4 quick questions on your goals and timeline.
2. Get matched instantly with a top-rated provider suited to your goals.
3. Speak to a specialist for a free, no-obligation consultation.

They hold a Top Rated designation from the Business Consumer Alliance and earn a 4.7-star rating on Trustpilot and 4.8 stars on Google. Get your free Gold IRA match today.

Home Insurance: Switch your home insurance and you could save a ton of money

If you have home insurance, you need to see the recent rates available to you. There’s a good chance you’ll want to switch your policy if you see a better rate.

The best way to check for up-to-date rates: Get multiple policy quotes from a variety of home insurance providers. Too many homeowners skip this step — not realizing that they could save potentially $1,000s over the lifetime of owning their house.

Provide Home Insurance is a company that matches you with a variety of home insurance options to meet your home insurance needs … including lower overall cost or better overall coverage.

Just answer a few questions, and they will find options that are right for you.

Enter your zip code to get started

Waiting to Get Paid: Access up to $150 per day of your paycheck

If you need a few dollars in between paychecks, a little daily cushion can go a long way.

With the EarnIn app you can access up to $150 per day of your paycheck and with a max of $1,000 per pay period.¹⁴ <p>EarnIn is not a bank. Access limits are based on your earnings and risk factors. Available in select states. Terms and restrictions apply. Visit <a href="https://www.earnin.com/">EarnIn.com</a> for full details</p>

Yes, you read that correctly. You have the option to access your pay as you work and not have EarnIn charge you at all.

You even have the option to access the money within minutes for a small fee.¹⁵ <p>Lightning Speed is an optional service that allows you to expedite the transfer of funds for a fee. Depending on the product, the fee may be charged by EarnIn or its banking partner. See the <a href="https://www.earnin.com/privacyandterms/terms-of-service/fees">LS Fee table</a> for details.</p>

The best news? There is no credit check, no interest, no late fees – ever.

How to get started:

1. Visit EarnIn and create an account.
2. Link your bank and employment info.
3. EarnIn will verify your paycheck and you’re all set!

Get started with EarnIn here

Not Having Enough in Retirement: Have $2M saved for retirement? What can you actually spend per year?

It's one of the most common retirement questions out there - and honestly, there's no simple answer. The right number depends on your tax situation, Social Security timing, investment mix, healthcare costs, and other things many people don't think about until it's too late.

The smart move? Ask a pro.

Advisor.com free tool matches you with vetted financial advisors who serve your area and are legally required to act in your best interest - not their own. You can have a free introductory call with each match before you commit to anything.

Here's how it works:

• Answer a few quick questions to find a match near you
• Get connected with vetted fiduciary advisors in minutes
• Chat with them for free and choose who you actually want to work with

No pressure, no strings - just a clearer picture of what your retirement can actually look like.

Get matched with a financial advisor today

Credit Card Debt: Pay no interest into 2027 with a no annual fee card

If you're struggling to pay down high-interest debt (or you're planning a major purchase this year), this might be the exact thing you need. There are cards that allow you to completely pause credit card interest into 2027... and the best part is that it could be easier than you think with this new tool.

These extremely powerful cards can give you 0% intro APR for up to an astounding 15 months on purchases and balance transfers. That's right - you can now finance large purchases you've been sitting on without paying massive interest. Or, transfer crippling high interest debt let your payments go directly to paying down your balance, without piling on additional interest charges - with no annual fee.

Answer a few quick questions, and we'll try to match you with a card that fits your situation.

Free, no commitment, and no impact on your credit score.

See my options (no credit impact)

Home Equity: Tap the equity in your home without adding another monthly payment (home must be worth at least $200,000)

If you own the home you live in but don't want to touch your mortgage rate or go for a traditional HELOC, a Home Equity Investment Product, or HEI, could be perfect.

How it works: A HEI bets that your home's value will go up. They give you cash now, and when you sell, refinance, or pay back in cash, you give them a small portion based on how much your home is worth then.

(By the way, if your home value decreases, the value of the percentage home equity investor is entitled to also decreases. That could be a lot safer for you.)

They work with single family homes, condos, townhomes, and 2- to 4-unit properties. No mobile or manufactured homes. Use the money however you like. Pay off debt, renovate, invest … all without worrying about additional monthly payments OR touching your current mortgage.

Why choose a HEI?

• Cash Payment Now: You can qualify to get between $15,000 to $500,000 in one lump-sum cash payment.
• Have a home worth at least $200,000.
• No income requirements.
• Don’t want to affect your current mortgage.
• Don’t want monthly payments.

Answer a few questions here to see if you pre-qualify in less than 2 minutes (see how much you can get)

Interest: Stop getting ripped off by high interest debt payments

If you have credit card debt, you know that paying your bill each month is anxiety-inducing … and sometimes close to impossible with what you have in the bank.

If that’s you, a company called LendingTree¹⁶ <p>Terms and conditions apply. Rates subject to change. LendingTree, LLC. NMLS# 1136.</p> wants to help. They can match you with loan providers that could help you pay off your debt quickly.

Think about it this way: For example, $30,000 in credit card debt at 25% APR will cost you $622.60 every single month in interest alone. But, with a rate as low as 6.50% APR (possible through LendingTree’s lenders), you’d only pay $160.69 interest.

That’s over $460 a month you’d get to keep for yourself in this scenario! Even better, you don’t need a perfect credit score, and checking for loans won’t affect your credit.

Truthfully, this company exists to help you get ahead in life. They have a 4.5/5 rating on TrustPilot with more than 15,000 verified reviews, and you can see your options in a matter of minutes. It’s certainly worth a shot if you’re feeling suffocated by debt.

See if your $30K+ credit card debt is eligible for options with LendingTree

Not Earning Cash Back at Walmart: Earn 3% cash back at Walmart, gas, or dining

If you shop at Walmart even once a month, you need to see this. It's been reported that more than 40% of Americans buy their groceries at Walmart,¹⁷ <p><a href="https://finance.yahoo.com/news/shoppers-spoken-41-americans-buy-170019917.html?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAACQm6ZcadD4NrR51SZpDQrtjnfHLUEFMM_QeO7REDQ9UJ3i5_G7QXKQDdE_efQGjWD5JqtcwmKGIDzX75HPkkNp6ukmp2ye4JUPvRra-PLUh11wUL35Lc6fL5oNJ1vcyhwyL-YSfvt_ckALxlKGaSHl41Sjtg2kjZtnU4ojGT7fI">Source</a></p> but if you pay with a regular debit card, you could be missing out on a chance to earn solid cash back.

OnePay changes that. You can earn 3% cash back at Walmart every month on up to $150 spent.¹⁸ <p>Cash back is earned as OnePay Points, redeemable into a OnePay deposit account or other available options. You must select your cash back category in the OnePay app monthly and you begin earning on the date it is selected. Eligible purchases are based on MCC. See terms at&nbsp;<a href="http://onepay.com/rewards-terms">onepay.com/rewards-terms</a>.</p>

But you don’t just earn cash back at Walmart with OnePay — you can also earn on gas, dining, and more. When you bank through OnePay, you get a mobile banking app and secured credit card with no monthly fees, no minimum balances, and no overdraft fees.¹⁹ <p>OnePay is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by Coastal Community Bank or Lead Bank, Members FDIC. The secured OnePay Builder Mastercard® is issued by banking partners pursuant to a license by Mastercard® International Incorporated.</p>

Plus, you can earn 3.35% APY on your savings²⁰ <p>3.35% annual percentage yield (APY) applies to the Savings balance of OnePay deposit accounts. APYs are as of 8/1/2026, but may change at any time before or after account opening.</p> and can get paid up to 2 days early with direct deposit²¹ <p>Direct Deposit is required. Funds may be available up to 2 days in advance, depending on when your employer sends paycheck data</p> and fee-free cash withdrawals at 55,000+ Allpoint ATMs worldwide.²² <p>For all other ATM transactions, the Cash Out fee will apply and third-party ATM fees may be incurred.</p> And you can earn 25¢/gallon extra cash back on your first gas purchase.²³ <p>Bonus Term 10/27/2025 – 12/31/2026. Bonus applied to your first purchase of gas using an Upside Offer for gas (“Gas Offer”). Use of a Gas Offer must be made during the Bonus Term to earn the Bonus. Limit of one per customer. Cash back is provided as OnePay Points, which can be redeemed as a deposit into a OnePay deposit account, or other available options. Gas Offers are not available in New Jersey or Wisconsin. Cash back amounts and caps vary by gas station and are subject to change at any time. Any gallon or spend caps applicable to a Gas Offer will also be applicable to the Bonus. See <a href="https://www.onepay.com/legal/onepay-rewards-terms?%24web_only=true&amp;_branch_match_id=1207782460763901308&amp;utm_medium=marketing&amp;_branch_referrer=H4sIAAAAAAAAAwXBQQqAMAwEwBfZ3AXx4EOk4moLbRM2gd58uzMlwnwVKWhNkw6kbCbEzLx9CbD7%2FhEPyDre86JOB7ejUDt%2B8XOCZz0AAAA%3D">onepay.com/rewards-terms</a>.</p>

And for parents, you can add your teen (ages 13-17) as a user on your account - teens learn smart money habits while parents stay in control. Teens can set goals, track progress, and also earn 3.35% APY on Savings.²⁰ <p>3.35% annual percentage yield (APY) applies to the Savings balance of OnePay deposit accounts. APYs are as of 8/1/2026, but may change at any time before or after account opening.</p> Teens can also earn 3% cash back on Walmart, gas, or dining on up to $150 spent per month.¹⁸ <p>Cash back is earned as OnePay Points, redeemable into a OnePay deposit account or other available options. You must select your cash back category in the OnePay app monthly and you begin earning on the date it is selected. Eligible purchases are based on MCC. See terms at&nbsp;<a href="http://onepay.com/rewards-terms">onepay.com/rewards-terms</a>.</p> Plus, everyday purchases with the Builder Card can help your teen build credit before they turn 18.²⁴ <p class="">Builder Card helps adults build credit by reporting your Builder Card activity to the credit bureaus unless you opt out.&nbsp; Any changes to your credit score are independently determined.&nbsp; OnePay deposit account is required. Teens are authorized users on their parent or guardian's Builder Card.&nbsp; Beginning at age 18, Builder Card activity dating back to age 16 will be reported to the credit bureaus, provided they are still an authorized user, their SSN has been verified, and credit reporting has not been turned off.&nbsp; Credit score impact is independently determined.&nbsp; If eligible, your spending power is based on your Checking balance.&nbsp; Transactions using your virtual debit card are not reported.&nbsp; Credit scores are based on your overall financial behavior, results may vary and are not guaranteed.&nbsp; See OneProgress Services LLC (NMLS ID 2460509) Licenses.&nbsp;</p>  

Bank through OnePay and earn 3% back at Walmart

Missing This Limited Time Offer: Earn 75,000 miles + $300 Capital One Travel credit — worth over $1,000 toward travel

Limited time offer: If you're planning a trip, apply for the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card (Rates and fees) here and you can earn 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months — plus for a limited time, a $300 Capital One Travel stays credit. That's worth over $1,000 toward travel!

Plus, earn 2 miles per dollar on every purchase, every day, 5 miles per dollar on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5 miles per dollar on Capital One Entertainment purchases — with a low annual fee of $95 and no foreign transaction fee.

The card could help you offset the annual fee: You'll get a $300 stays credit towards hotel and vacation rental bookings through Capital One Travel in your first cardholder year, a $50 experience credit on every Lifestyle Collection hotel or vacation rental stay, up to $120 toward Global Entry or TSA PreCheck every four years, and complimentary Hertz Five Star status.²⁵ <p class="">Upon enrollment, accessible through the Capital One website or mobile app, eligible cardholders will remain at that status level through the duration of the offer. Please note, enrolling through the normal Hertz Gold Plus Rewards enrollment process (e.g. at Hertz.com) will not automatically detect a cardholder as being eligible for the program and cardholders will not be automatically upgraded to the applicable status tier. Additional terms apply<br></p>

This card could help you earn $100s in rewards to use toward travel. Don't delay — this limited time offer won't last forever. Apply today!

Click here to apply for the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card now

Recommended Credit Score FinanceBuzz credit ranges are a variation of FICO®️ scores, one of many types of credit score lenders may use when considering your credit card application.

Good

670-739

Excellent

740-850

Subscriptions You Don’t Need: Put an average of $378 back in your pocket by canceling services you don’t need

A chunk of your paycheck might be getting flushed down the drain. And the worst part is you probably won’t even catch it, unless you try this.

Rocket Money is an app that reviews your spending daily to find subscriptions to cancel and bills to cut. Rocket Money has helped users save an average of $378 a year²⁶ <p>This annualized figure is based on members usage of Subscription Cancellation. Actual savings may vary and are not guaranteed.</p> by canceling unwanted subscriptions. They’ll even cancel subscriptions for you and negotiate bills on your behalf (see below).

Now, some insider info: Don’t go for the “free” version. Instead, choose the free trial of the Premium version. It unlocks the features that save you the most money possible, like “Cancellation Concierge,” that helps cancel subscriptions for you.

Once you have your free trial of Premium set up, Rocket Money connects to your bank in minutes and will identify bills that can be lowered and subscriptions you can cancel. Easy.

Start your free trial of Rocket Money Premium get back an average of $378

Expensive Timeshares: Timeshare owners could claim a cash refund. Check to see if your resort is on the list.

If you’re stuck in a timeshare contract, you’re not alone. The average timeshare owner pays roughly $1,200 a year in maintenance fees,²⁷ <p>Based on American Resort Development Association (ARDA) industry data. National average annual timeshare maintenance fee estimated at approximately $1,120 to $1,200 per one-week ownership interval.</p> special assessments, and processing charges. But depending on how your contract was sold, it may be eligible for cancelation ... and you could be owed a cash refund and a possible way out of the contract.

The Stonegate Firm helps consumers seek to cancel their timeshare for good, and reviews whether any fees they paid may be recoverable, even if you’re behind on payments. Their attorneys look for potential violations in your contract, then negotiate directly with your resort.

Cancel your timeshare and possibly even get your money back!

1. Answer a few questions about your timeshare and contract.
2. A Stonegate Firm specialist reviews your case and contract.
3. If you qualify, they pursue an exit strategy on your behalf, which may include a cash refund.

Every year you wait is another bill you may never get back. The Stonegate Firm is BBB Accredited with an A+ rating.

Check your eligibility free - 30 second assessment

Prescription Costs: Lock in up to 80% savings on ED meds today

If you want to get harder faster and stay ready longer, triple-action ED meds can work in 15 minutes or less.²⁸ <p>Timing and results vary. Some men may feel effects in as little as 15 minutes, while others may take longer. Your provider will help determine the right treatment and dosing for you.</p> And this company we found called Direct Meds gets them to you for up to 80% cheaper vs. brand-name ED medications!²⁹ <p>Savings comparison based on DirectMax promotional pricing of $7.45 per dose versus brand-name Viagra at U.S. retail, commonly $65 to $140 per tablet and approximately $86 per tablet for a 30-count of 50mg. Actual savings vary by dose, pharmacy, and promotion. Generic sildenafil is available at a lower cost than DirectMax. DirectMax is a compounded medication and is not FDA-approved.</p>

It might sound crazy, but DirectMeds operates on a cash-pay basis and does not accept insurance. This is how they keep pricing simple and transparent with no hidden fees and no monthly membership.

Skip the awkward appointments, pharmacy lines, and the long wait for traditional options. Plus, get one on one medical support from a dedicated nursing team when you go through Direct Meds. You could finish the online visit in just a few minutes.

Limited Time Offer: Right now you can get 33% off instantly, on top of their already incredible pricing compared to name brand meds.

Take the quiz to get up to 80% off brand-name ED med prices (as low as $7.45/dose).

Not Realizing Your Phone Can Block Ads: Shut them off across your devices for as low as $1.59/month your first year

Advertisers spent more than $740 billion putting ads in front of you last year. Those ads cost you data, battery, and time. Not to mention many of them creepily tracking you across the internet.

These ads are engineered to move money out of your pocket. But you could shut them off for as little as $1.59/month your first year …

This tool called Total Adblock blocks pop-ups, banner ads, and autoplay videos before they ever load. It also blocks the third-party trackers and cookies advertisers use to follow you from site to site. And it even flags deceptive ads and dangerous links that lead to fraudulent sites.

Independent testing scored it 100 out of 100 for ad blocking. It works on your computer, phone, and tablet, and annual plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Don't keep paying to be advertised to. Block the ads across your devices for as low as $1.59/month your first year today.

Excellent 4.4/5

$10,000+ Home Elevators: Ohio residents, save big on stair lifts

Struggling with the stairs at home could put your independence at risk. But if you live in Ohio and have difficulty on the stairs, you might qualify for a free stair lift estimate.

Leaf Home is actively helping homeowners keep their independence with safer, more accessible homes. That means you might not have to move or complete a $10,000 renovation to match your changing needs. Their certified professionals install high-quality stair lifts that could help reduce fall risk and improve your day-to-day comfort, without upending your life.

They make it easy to get started with financing options available and a limited lifetime warranty included. The entire process is hassle free.

See if you qualify if you check these 3 boxes:

1. You own your home.
2. You have difficulty using the stairs.
3. You live in an available ZIP code.

See if you qualify for a free estimate

Quick Tip: Ask about financing options and factory-direct pricing on your custom stair lift.

Bad Credit Holding You Back? Grow your credit score with this no annual fee card (plus earn unlimited 5% cash back rewards at grocery stores)

If you have bad or no credit and you aren't using the SoFi Smart Card, you could be missing out on the chance to grow your credit score just by following a few simple steps. 

The SoFi Smart Card could be a perfect option if you feel held back by a poor credit score. Even if your credit score is low, this card allows you to potentially grow your credit score by making on-time payments.³⁰ <p>Grow your credit score: On-time payment history may have a positive impact on your credit score. Late payment may negatively impact your credit score. SoFi will report your Smart Card activity to Experian®. Impact on your credit may vary, as credit scores are independently determined by credit bureaus based on a number of factors, including the financial decisions you make with other financial services organizations.</p>  You also won't overspend with this card, because it's a secure card funded with money you already have. 

Even better, this card lets you earn unlimited 5% cash back rewards at grocery stores. That could be worth $100s in cash back for something you spend money on every single month.

If you're exhausted from the pain of a low (or no) credit score and you want to earn cash back on groceries at the same time, this card is practically a no brainer to help with both. 

Click here to apply for the SoFi Smart Card now

Home Equity: Ohio Homeowners borrow from your home’s equity to pay down high-interest debt

Home equity loans are surging in popularity with homeowners with great credit to pay down high-interest debt quickly or make home improvements.

The best part is you can actually keep your current mortgage rate by getting a home equity loan!

Compare home equity offers from LendingTree's network of lenders.

How to get started:

1. Check out LendingTree’s Home Equity matching tool.¹⁶ <p>Terms and conditions apply. Rates subject to change. LendingTree, LLC. NMLS# 1136.</p>
2. Answer a few questions about your home.
3. Compare personalized offers.

Compare Offers

Pay no interest on balance transfers into 2028

Imagine getting 15 months with 0% intro APR on balance transfers (APR then 18.49% - 27.99% Variable). Sounds great — right? You could dramatically change your financial picture with this industry-leading low-interest card - the Chase Freedom Unlimited^®(Rates and fees).

If you want to kick high-interest credit card debt to the curb, this is one of the leading get-out-of-debt cards available. Transfer your high interest debt to this card with a 0% intro APR on balance transfers for 15 months. Your payments can go directly to paying down your balance without incurring a pile of additional charges. That could save you hundreds of dollars in interest! After the intro period, the APR is 18.49% - 27.99% Variable. 

The best part? The annual fee is $0.

Click here to Apply Now to the Chase Freedom Unlimited^®

Not earning up to 5% cash back at restaurants and on entertainment and utilities when you activate this incredible offer

There's a credit card that's making waves with its amazing welcome bonus and benefits. Apply for the Discover it^® Cash Back (Rates and fees) and you can earn up to 5% cash back at restaurants and on entertainment and utilities now to December 31, 2026, on up to $1,500 in purchases when you activate.

There's no annual fee — plus, you'll earn 1% cash back on all other purchases automatically.  The generous welcome offer provides top-notch rewards since you can receive a $200 statement credit when you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months of account opening. Plus, Discover will match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year (terms apply).

This card also offers an intro APR of 0% for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers, then APR 18.74% - 28.74% (Variable) (balance transfer fee applies). That means you could use this card to fund large purchases or even help tackle your debt. If you're traveling this summer or want to earn more on beauty essentials, this card is practically a no-brainer!

Click here to apply now for the Discover it^® Cash Back.