Key Takeaways

• Many credit cards offer valuable perks and benefits.
• The public library offers a wide variety of free services.
• You can get into shape with free personal trainers.
• Nonprofit credit counseling agencies can help you develop a budget and debt repayment plan.
• Tax preparation professionals can help you file your returns.

When you need to be careful with money, taking advantage of what's available at no cost to you is powerful. Reducing expenses this way can help alleviate financial stress brought on by inflation.

Higher prices on goods and services have caused most Americans to make major adjustments to their budgets. According to a 2024 Wells Fargo Money Study, the state of the economy has caused 67% of respondents to cut back on spending.

Free things can expand or refine your budget and help you get the most out of life, even when cash isn’t tight. Here are nine that you can get online or in person:

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Most credit cards come with plenty of free perks, so log in to your account and review your list of benefits. Odds are there are at least a few that will replace the things you normally pay for.

For example, you can save yourself the checked bag fee (often up to $40 per piece) if your travel card includes it. Your card may also provide you with annual passes to expensive airport lounges, and credits for things like Uber and Lyft, streaming services, food and beverages at the airport and on the plane, TSA PreCheck and Global Entry.

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Buying travel insurance may be a waste if your account includes it. You may be covered in case of delayed, lost or damaged luggage; trip delays and cancellations; and medical treatment – all without having to pay for a separate policy.

Other cards come with valuable extras, such as Bank of America’s Museums on Us program, which grants credit and debit card holders free general admission at participating museums on the first full weekend of the month.

You can borrow books at the public library instead of buying them, which can save you money on its own, but you may be........

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