15 personal finance mistakes that most Americans make

Photo: Depositphoto

On the eve of 2017, experts interviewed Go Banking Rates, compiled a list of the most popular mistakes that each of us makes with personal finances.

1. Full credit card download

December is the time when you want to buy everything. Thanksgiving, Black Friday and Cyber ​​Monday are barely over, and Christmas and New Year are ahead. But it's worth thinking about before spending your entire limit on credit cards: you risk paying huge sums next year, paying off not only the debt, but also the interest. And this can make a serious hole in your budget.

2. Buying new home appliances instead of repaired

In American stores, especially on online platforms, it is very common to sell goods marked Refurbished - this means that the product was purchased before you, but was returned to the factory for repair. As a rule, electronics and household appliances are repaired in certified centers, and the result is practically no different from new. You can save at least 15% on such a purchase.

Photo: Depositphoto

3. Purchase of unopened goods

Another option popular among avid online shoppers. You have the choice to purchase household appliances in new packaging or marked open box. This means that the product was purchased, the packaging was opened and returned. There will be no damage or even signs of use on the product. And sometimes you can save a lot of money.

4. Payment of the full cost of gasoline

You can always save on fuel purchases using loyalty programs from your credit card. Also don't forget about the GasBuddy app - it will show you the cheapest gas stations in your area.

5. Pay full price for other products

Use sites such as Groupon.com to find great deals on prices several times lower than in regular stores.

6. Payment of sales tax

In some cities, for example, in Chicago, sales tax exceeds 10%. It should be borne in mind that online stores often do not charge sales tax. You can save a lot.

7. Do not think about shopping for the year ahead

The worst time to buy Halloween decorations is the week before the holiday. The same applies to any other goods - clothing, winter equipment, and so on. You've probably noticed that immediately after a significant date, stores literally give away goods for free.

Photo: Depositphoto

8. Permanent lunch outside the house

A typical lunch costs, on average, $ 15. Thus, for the year you spend $ 3900. If you dine in restaurants, for example, 2 once a week, and not 5, you will already save $ 2340.

9. Neglecting discounts for new customers

If you are going to a new hairdresser or chiropractor, be sure to ask if there are discounts for new clients.

10. Neglecting happy hours

You can save a lot on food and drinks at your favorite restaurant. Early hours tend to offer 2-for-1 drinks or discounts.

11. Constantly switched on electrical appliances

If you leave home and leave a hairdryer, electric razor or TV plugged in, over time this will add up to a serious increase in your electricity bill.

12. Payment of membership in the fitness club

In the United States, 67% of fitness center club card holders never go to the gym, Statistic Brain experts calculated after analyzing statistics from the country’s largest fitness centers. You lose at least $1 per day if you miss 1 class. Consider if you don't go to the gym - whether it would be better to cancel or freeze your membership.

Photo: Depositphoto

13. Ignoring e-mail newsletters from stores

Many outlets offer discounts and special offers for those who have subscribed to the e-mail newsletter. In addition, subscribers often receive exclusive offers.

14. Neglect of visits to the dentist

If you feel discomfort, take the time to see a doctor. You can save on expensive dental treatment.

15. Late payment of bills

If you do not open letters with bills on time, you risk falling into a trap - every new month your debt will increase.

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