20 Easy Ways You Can Save $20 This Month

Some people hate carrying change. But why? There’s nothing more satisfying than thinking you don’t have any money on you, then unzipping the coin pocket and BAM! A few extra dollars you didn’t know you had. But instead of small change, why not surprise yourself with extra bills? Because that is just so much sweeter.
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Pack a lunch

Make yourself a homemade sandwich or salad one day a week instead of running downstairs to the food court or down the street for your favourite pub grub is an easy way to save money today.

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Brew your own coffee

Forgo that Starbucks or McCafe run. Those venti caramel macchiatos really add up.

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woman typing on computer with water bottle

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Trade pop for water

Stop grabbing drinks from the vending machine; those $1 cans (or $2 bottles) can get costly. Instead, just refill your water bottle. For free!

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Get your groceries once a week

Make a list and get what you need for the next seven days, and don't just go to the store on a whim. Take the savings and invest it.

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Start couponing

Clip or download coupons and discounts that save you percentages off your purchases, from clothes to haircuts to dinners out.

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Keep rewards cards

The points you accumulate definitely pay off.

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Price match

Look through flyers, be it actual paper ones or online, and shop at grocery stores that match the lowest prices you can find.

Download a couponing app, and head over to any of these stores with the best price match guarantees.

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Watch your thermostat

Don't run the AC or pump the heat when you're not home. Open windows and wear shorts, or put on a cozy sweater before adjusting the temp.

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Avoid dry-cleaning

The instructions on your cashmere cardigan might say dry-clean only but a careful handwash is equally fine for the garment — and your wallet.

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Hang-dry your clothes

You'll see significant savings on your electric bill.

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Switch bank accounts

Opt for one that doesn't charge you those pesky monthly fees and honours their customers' loyalty with things like free cheques.

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Pay your bills online

Stamps are no longer cheap. Switch to online billing and a little goes a long way. Plus, it's instant gratification, knowing companies will get your payment quicker.

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Keep a change jar

Drop all your loose change in a jar and you'll be shocked not only by how quickly it gets filled up but how much you'll amass.

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Put fives aside

How often do you have actual cash on you? When you do, squirrel away a $5 bill every time there's one in your wallet. I know, I know, sounds a tad ridiculous but surprisingly, you don't have them as often as you might expect. Four times a month is all it takes.

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Mani up

Instead of going to your favourite salon, give yourself a mani/pedi.

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Nailed it

Again, do it yourself. And while you're at it, forgo your toes entirely during the winter. Unless you're going away, your feet will be covered anyway so who cares?

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Sneak your own food in

If you must go to the theatre, why not bring your own water, bag of popcorn and bulk candy? But you didn't hear it from us.

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Watch a movie at home

Stream a flick at home instead of going to the pricey theatre.

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Get rid of your landline

Does anyone but duct cleaning telemarketers call you there anyway? Get out of the dark ages and make your cell your only number.

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