9 Surprising Ways Most People Throw Money Away

You’ve got money sense. You chase the deals, pack your lunch more often than not, and keep your streaming lineup lean and budget-friendly.

Still, there are a few hidden ways to cut costs you may not have thought about. The best part? These little tweaks can free up cash faster than you’d expect.

1. Car Insurance – Stop Overpaying for Coverage You Don’t Even Need

Driving without car insurance is illegal—but overpaying for it isn’t. The truth is, many of us are paying way more than we should, and most people don’t even realize it.

I thought I had the best deal at $159 a month. Turns out, I was wrong. After using this simple comparison tool, I found coverage for just $47 a month—on two cars.

Insurance companies count on us not checking around, which means they keep raising rates. But in just a couple of minutes, you can see your options and lock in a better deal. Here’s how:

1. Click the link and enter your ZIP code.

2. Answer a few quick questions about your vehicle.

3. Compare top offers and choose the one that works best for you.

That’s it. I couldn’t believe how easy it was—or how much I saved. Don’t wait around like I did. Try it now and see how much you could save today.

2. Credit Card Debt – The Hidden Costs of Letting Debt Sit Untouched

If your debt feels like it’s swallowing you whole, you’re not alone—and it doesn’t have to stay that way. The more time you let pass, the harder it gets. But there is a real way out.

JG Wentworth could help. If you have more than $20,000 in unsecured debt—credit cards, medical bills, personal loans, or collections—their Debt Relief Program may be able to negotiate on your behalf, combine your debts into a single monthly payment, and help you settle for less than what you owe. JG Wentworth

Here’s what’s great:

• No fees unless your debts are successfully resolved. JG Wentworth

• Many clients finish the program in 24-48 months. JG Wentworth

• You only make one monthly payment instead of juggling a bunch of bills. JG Wentworth

To see if you qualify, it’s fast and simple: answer a few questions about your debts, how much you owe, and some basic personal info. You’ll quickly see if you’re eligible—and how much you might save.

3. Vet Bills – How Your Pet Could Cost You Thousands (and How to Avoid It)

Vet bills can add up fast—but with Spot Pet Insurance, you could get reimbursed for up to 90% of eligible costs once you’ve met your deductible.

Spot makes it simple to find a plan that works for you and your pet. Just share your pet’s name, whether they’re a dog or cat, their age, and your email. That’s it—no phone calls or texts required. You’ll instantly see personalized plan options.

That kind of protection can make a big difference. Emergency surgery, unexpected illness, or specialist care can cost thousands of dollars. With Spot, you could save big. For example, instead of paying a $4,100 vet bill out of pocket, you might get reimbursed $3,400—helping ease both financial stress and worry about your pet’s care.

The best time to get coverage is before your pet gets sick or injured. Don’t wait until there’s an emergency—give yourself peace of mind now, so you can focus on what really matters: keeping your best friend healthy and happy.

Compare rates for your pet now and save on massive vet bills

4. Cosmetic Procedures – The Expensive “Quick Fixes” That Don’t Actually Work

You take your health seriously—you exercise, eat right, and invest in skincare—but sometimes even smart people waste money on temporary solutions.

Endless fad diets, supplements, and at-home gadgets promise results but rarely deliver. That’s where a professional body contouring treatment can save both time and money. With a single procedure, you get results that last, eliminating the need for endless monthly spending on products that don’t work.

Many providers offer free consultations and flexible payment plans, so you can customize the treatment to your body and budget. Instead of paying hundreds every month for fleeting results, you pay once and enjoy lasting benefits. This approach also reduces frustration—you’ll finally see progress that aligns with the effort you put in.

The smartest part? You’re redirecting money from ineffective products into something that actually makes a difference in your confidence and your wallet.

Check out these real results!

5. Mortgage Refinancing – Stop Throwing Money at Your Old Loan—See If You Qualify for a Better Rate

Many homeowners lock into a mortgage and never check their rates again, assuming the deal they got years ago is still the best.

The truth is, interest rates fluctuate, and failing to refinance can silently cost thousands.

Refinancing can consolidate debts, lower interest rates, or reduce monthly payments, saving big over time. It’s quick to see if you qualify—most tools require only basic information about your current mortgage and finances. A 1% rate reduction on a $250,000 loan could save more than $150 each month, which adds up to $1,800 annually.

Beyond the numbers, refinancing can free up cash to invest, pay off other debt, or save for emergencies. The smartest homeowners regularly reassess their mortgages to ensure they’re not overpaying.

Waiting too long can mean years of lost savings that could have been spent on more meaningful financial goals.

See if refinancing could lower your payments and save you thousands.

6. Bathroom Remodels – The Hidden Costs of an Outdated Bathroom You’re Ignoring

Bathrooms are high-traffic spaces, and outdated or damaged fixtures can silently drain money from your household budget.

Leaks, old plumbing, and inefficient tubs or showers increase water bills and require ongoing repairs. A professional remodel transforms the space quickly and efficiently, often in as little as a day, with options for financing that won’t break your bank.

Modern upgrades can reduce water usage, prevent damage, and even boost property value. Many homeowners are surprised by how much a single investment improves both function and aesthetics. Paying for repeated small repairs adds up over time—remodeling once can prevent years of wasted money. The smartest people plan upgrades strategically, ensuring lasting impact and fewer surprise costs.

Get a personalized remodel estimate and see how you could stop wasting on constant fixes.

7. Lawn Care – Your Lawn Could Be Secretly Draining Your Wallet

A well-kept lawn is more than curb appeal—it’s a hidden money trap if ignored. People often spend hundreds on fertilizers, tools, or DIY solutions that fail to prevent weeds, pests, or soil problems.

Professional lawn care services help maintain healthy grass, prevent costly damage, and reduce the risk of major repairs. Many services start with a quick property assessment and provide a plan tailored to your lawn’s needs, from soil treatment to pest control. By investing in consistent care, you avoid thousands in emergency fixes, reseeding, or irrigation system replacements.

Lawn maintenance also preserves home value, which is often overlooked by even smart homeowners. Skipping this step may feel like saving money, but it can quietly drain your budget over time. With professional help, your yard stays healthy, beautiful, and far less expensive to maintain in the long run.

Get a free lawn assessment and find out how much you could save on repairs.

8. Quick Cash Offers – Sell Your Home Fast Without Losing Thousands

Holding onto a home you don’t want or can’t maintain can silently drain your finances. Property taxes, insurance, utilities, and repairs add up, often faster than you realize. Selling quickly for cash is a smarter alternative for homeowners who want out without spending thousands on renovations to attract buyers.

Offers are typically fast, and homes are purchased as-is, meaning no extra costs for upgrades, staging, or repairs. This approach can save months—or even years—of carrying costs. Many sellers are shocked at how fast they close and how much stress they avoid by taking a fair cash offer.

You also free up capital to reinvest elsewhere, like buying a new home, funding a business, or simply saving. By acting proactively, you’re preventing a money leak that can quietly accumulate over time.

Find out what your home could sell for today—no repairs or hassle required.

9. Home Structural Upgrades -Ignoring This Could Cost You Tens of Thousands Later

A roof may seem like a background expense, but neglecting it can become one of the most expensive mistakes homeowners make. Small leaks often go unnoticed until water damage ruins ceilings, walls, or even structural supports.

Replacing or remodeling your roof before disaster strikes can prevent repair costs that run into the tens of thousands. Many roofing companies offer free inspections and detailed quotes, making it easy to plan your investment wisely.

Smart homeowners schedule maintenance based on condition rather than waiting for emergencies. Upgrading now can reduce insurance claims and improve energy efficiency in your home. While it’s tempting to delay, the long-term savings and peace of mind far outweigh the initial cost.

Preventative action today prevents financial headaches tomorrow. Schedule a free roof inspection and see how much you could save on future repairs.

Even the smartest people can fall into subtle money traps without realizing it. From overlooked insurance and refinancing opportunities to home maintenance and health-related investments, the little decisions you put off—or assume you’re already handling—can quietly drain your wallet over time. The good news is that catching these expenses early and taking action can free up hundreds, even thousands of dollars, while reducing stress and protecting your future. Start by reviewing the areas highlighted in this article, compare your options, and make the changes that make sense for your life. After all, being smart with money isn’t just about what you earn—it’s about making every dollar work harder for you.

1 Insurify Insurance Agency is a licensed insurance agency in 50 states and DC.^†Average potential savings based on initial quotes received by 183,234 customers seeking insurance through Insurify. Actual savings may vary depending on state of residence, individual circumstances, coverage selections, and insurance provider. Savings results are not guaranteed.

2 *Clients who are able to stay with the program and get all their debt settled realize approximate savings of 43% before our 25% program fee. Program length varies depending on individual situation. Programs are between 24 and 60 months in length. This is a Debt resolution program provided by JGW Debt Settlement, LLC (“JGW” of “Us”)). JGW offers this program in the following states: AL, AK, AZ, AR, CA, CO, FL, ID, IN, IA, KY, LA, MD, MA, MI, MS, MO, NE, NM, NV, NY, NC, OK, PA, PR, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, DC. If a consumer residing in any other state contacts Us we may connect them with a law firm that provides debt resolution services in their state. JGW is licensed/registered to provide debt resolution services in states where licensing/registration is required.Debt resolution program results will vary by individual situation. As such, debt resolution services are not appropriate for everyone. Not all debts are eligible for enrollment. Not all individuals who enroll complete our program for various reasons, including their ability to save sufficient funds. Savings resulting from successful negotiations may result in tax consequences, please consult with a tax professional regarding these consequences. The use of the debt settlement services and the failure to make payments to creditors: (1) Will likely adversely affect your creditworthiness (credit rating/credit score) and make it harder to obtain credit; (2) May result in your being subject to collections or being sued by creditors or debt collectors; and (3) May increase the amount of money you owe due to the accrual of fees and interest by creditors or debt collectors. Failure to pay your monthly bills in a timely manner will result in increased balances and will harm your credit rating. Not all creditors will agree to reduce principal balance, and they may pursue collection, including lawsuits. JGW’s fees are calculated based on a percentage of the debt enrolled in the program. Read and understand the program agreement prior to enrollment.JG Wentworth does not pay or assume any debts or provide legal, financial, tax advice, or credit repair services. You should consult with independent professionals for such advice or services. Please consult with a bankruptcy attorney for information on bankruptcy.JGW Debt Settlement, LLC 1200 Morris Drive Chesterbrook, PA 19087

3 Eligible services only. Pre-existing conditions are not covered. Waiting periods, annual deductible, co-insurance, benefit limits, and exclusions may apply. For all terms and conditions visit spotpetins.com/sample-policy. Preventive Care reimbursements are based on a schedule. Accident & Illness coverage reimbursements are based on the invoice. Products, schedules, discounts, and rates may vary and are subject to change. More information is available at checkout. Plans are produced and sold by: Spot Pet Insurance Services, LLC. California License #6000188. Spot plans are underwritten by either Independence American Insurance Company, or United States Fire Insurance Company, and produced by Spot Pet Insurance Services, LLC. Insurance plans are marketed and produced by Spot Insurance Services, LLC. (NPN # 19246385).Premiums are based on and may increase or decrease due to the age of your pet, the species or breed of your pet, and your home address Spot Pet Insurance Services, LLC. Copyright © 2025 Spot Pet Insurance Services, LLC. All Rights Reserved. 990 Biscayne Blvd Suite 603, Miami, FL 33132

4 *$250 off savings valid for a limited time. One offer per person. Surgical fee may apply. Not redeemable for cash. Offer not valid with any other offer, voucher or promotion. Not transferable. Not valid with special financing. Not valid on previous purchases. Void where prohibited. All information is subject to change without notice. Offer only valid for consultations completed on or before September 30, 2025. †Disclaimer: Individual results vary. Images do not constitute a guarantee, promise, nor representation of any particular outcome or experience. Both Smart Lipo and Lipolite devices are used across our centers. Sono Bello makes no guarantees that smart lipo will be used in a particular center or patient treatment.

5 The loanDepot HELOC is not available in all states. Please contact loanDepot for more details. The loanDepot HELOC has a variable interest rate based on an index (WSJ Prime Rate) plus a margin set by the lender. Your APR will not exceed 18.00% at any time during the term of your account (could vary based on limits imposed by state law). Line amounts available between $35,000 and $250,000 or as defined by state law. Line amount product availability depends on your property equity. There are no third-party fees. The loanDepot HELOC has a 30-year term. A 3-year draw period (within a 10-yr interest only period) and a 20-year repayment period. The minimum monthly payment during the first 10 years is interest only and is fully amortized over 240 months during the repayment phase. Minimum payment is $100. The origination will be up to 5% of the line amount, or the maximum allowed by state law, whichever is less.  A HELOC requires you to pledge your home as collateral and you could lose your home if you fail to repay. Offers, rates and fees are subject to change without notice. Credit criteria, exclusions, and limitations apply. 1 Funding timelines vary based upon verifications of income, employment, property condition or property value are needed. The application process is digital but Remote Online Notarization (RON) is not available. You will need to connect with an in-person notary to complete the process. 2 Completing an offer inquiry will not impact your credit score and will allow you to see offers containing potential terms and rates; however, if you submit an application, we will report a hard inquiry to one or more of the consumer reporting agencies. 3 Available funds are accessible via ACH /Wire 4 loanDepot.com’s home equity line of credit (HELOC) is an open-end product where a minimum draw amount of seventy-five percent (75%) or hundred percent (100%) of the requested line amount (minus the origination fee) will be drawn at the time of origination. Lines less than $50,000 require a 100% draw (minus the origination fee) at loan funding. No additional draws may be taken for 90 days following the closing date. As you repay the balance on the line, you may make additional draws during the draw period at the current interest rate. After the draw period ends, you will no longer be able to obtain credit advances and must pay the outstanding balance over 240 months. 5 The amount you owe does not go down with each interest only payment. Your principal and interest payment will be higher than the interest only payments. loanDepot.com’s home equity line of credit (HELOC) is an open-end product where a minimum draw amount of seventy-five percent (75%) or hundred percent (100%) of the requested line amount (minus the origination fee) will be drawn at the time of origination. Lines less than $50,000 require a 100% draw (minus the origination fee) at loan funding. No additional draws may be taken for 90 days following the closing date. As you repay the balance on the line, you may make additional draws during the draw period at the current interest rate. After the draw period ends, you will no longer be able to obtain credit advances and must pay the outstanding balance over 240 months. Important Notice to Servicemembers and Their Dependents. If you are currently eligible for benefits provided by Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA), refinancing current debt may not be beneficial. Opinions expressed within this content are solely loanDepot’s and do not take into consideration your individual circumstances. To learn whether a HELOC is right for you, please reach out to one of our HELOC experts at (866) 790-3940. All trademarks and related logos, including but not limited to, loanDepot, LD, mellohome, are property of loanDepot.com, LLC and/or loanDepot.com, LLC affiliates.

6 ©️️ 2025 JACUZZI INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. JACUZZI BATH REMODEL PRODUCTS ARE SOLD AND INSTALLED THROUGH INDEPENDENTLY OPERATED AND LICENSED ENTITIES 1With purchase and installation of any complete bath/shower system from participating third-party Jacuzzi Bath Remodel dealer in your area (“”Dealer””). Offer and options will vary by Dealer/location. Not combinable with other offers. Add’l terms apply. Subject to change. Expires September 28, 2025. 2Financing offer available through third-party lenders under terms of applicable loan program. No interest for 12 months if paid in full within 12 months. Interest will be charged to you from purchase date if purchase balance is not paid in full within 12 months. Subject to credit approval—not all buyers will qualify. Add’l terms apply. See or call Dealer for details.

3Most shower remodels can be done in one day, but there are a few cases in which additional time may be needed. Your Jacuzzi Bath Remodel Representative can provide the actual amount of time needed for your specific remodel project. Not all products available in all locations.

7 **Available to residential customers for Lawn, Mosquito, Perimeter Pest, Outdoor Nuisance Pest Control and/or Tree & Shrub services only. Requires purchase of annual plan using PrePay or EasyPay. Guarantee based on a matching quote from a Qualified Provider. Parameters include matching service address, number of applications, application price, services to be performed and areas to be treated. Not valid on quotes older than 120 days or one-day sales/seasonal promotions. TruGreen reserves the right to verify. For first year of service only. Limited time offer. Not to be combined with or used in conjunction with any other offer or discount. Additional restrictions may apply. Consumer responsible for all sales tax. * Special price of 50% off is for first Lawn service★, Tree & Shrub service✢, Mosquito service★★ and/or Perimeter Pest service◆◆ only. Requires purchase of annual plan, for new residential EasyPay, MonthlyPay, or PrePay customers only. Valid at participating TruGreen® locations. Availability of services and/or products may vary by geography. Not to be combined with or used in conjunction with any other offer or discount. Additional restrictions may apply. Consumer responsible for all sales tax. ◆ TruGreen will gladly visit your property as needed between scheduled visits to ensure your satisfaction. Guarantee applies to annual plan customers only. ✦ Purchase of annual lawn plan required for TruGreen Lawn Assessment, which is performed at the first visit. ✢  TruGreen Tree & Shrub includes fertilization of common trees and shrubs, and controls common foliar insects and diseases. It does not include treatment of specialty trees such as fruit or certain ornamentals, or assessment and treatment of trees over 25 ft. in height. For more details, go to TruGreen FAQs at TruGreen.com/FAQTREE. ◆◆ TruGreen Perimeter Pest does not include removal of webs higher than 10 ft. and service does not protect against termites and other wood-destroying organisms, bedbugs, bees, fleas, German cockroaches, hornets, pharaoh ants, rodents, or ticks. † Now controls 200+ species of broadleaf weeds. Availability of services and/or products may vary by geography.†† Based on number of treatments offered as part of an annual program.America’s #1 lawn care company based on U.S. market share of professional lawn care companies. 2022 MMR Brand Health Tracker. PGATOUR.COM, PGA TOUR, TPC, SHOTLINK and the SWINGING GOLFER LOGO are trademarks of PGA TOUR, Inc. BBB accredited since 7/01/2012.© 2025 TruGreen Limited Partnership. All rights reserved.

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9 *Limited Time Offers may require Minimum Purchase Required. See Exact Offer for Details. Offer not available in all locations. See Terms of Use for Full Details. If you believe you’ve reached this page in error, please contact us. © 2025. All rights reserved.