AARP Rewards Online Community Smart Saver Contest

For years I have been saving every $5.00 bill that I get, and this has helped me to save up money to get my lawn cut in the summer and help pay my propane gas bill in the winter to heat my home. If you put the $5.00 bills away so you don't see them until you need them, they add up pretty fast. Every time I break a larger bill, and I get change that includes $5.00 I put it aside in my wallet until I get home, then I put it/them away. I have also been able to use them when I go on trips. Everyone should try this. It' easier than you think.

I    I save all year for my vacations, holidays, birthdays, emergency and other events by having automatic deposits taken out of my checking account.  I also garden, participate in book clubs, local retired groups and church activities as a way to save on entertainment. 

I chose one nearby place that I visit several times per week and made it a habit to always ride my bike there. It may only save a couple bucks in gas each trip but I go 3-5 times per week so it adds up to over 500 per year. Plus it's a good way to ensure that I get regular exercise.

We entertain the grandkids with story time and other events at our local library, visits to playgrounds, and walks in the park or on the beach. They’re all free events that get us interacting with others and/or outside for some exercise. AARP rewards of gift cards also get us a free lunch or snack afterwards!

New here! I save at Fry’s grocery store, Wednesday senior day is 15% off, plus the weekly deals. Gasoline deals. I use their app for all the weekly grocery savings, four-time points on Fridays for gasoline

I can and freeze vegetables from my garden each year and rarely have to buy from the grocery store. I buy meats bulk on sale and can or freeze. Thrifting is something I do with friends to save money. My husband and I do small projects around the house to avoid hiring someone. 

I highly recommend joining a free grocery store rewards program. You may receive exclusive coupons for everyday items that you would normally purchase for you and your family. With today’s increase in prices those savings can really add up. I’ve joined the Ralphs/Kroger program, where I also get fuel points based on the dollars I spend that can be used at partner gas stations for additional savings (great for my SUV). Occasionally, AARP offers Ralphs gift cards for purchase at a discount… an added bonus.

I freeze any leftovers and warm them for future meals. My husband takes his lunch to work every day, which is home cooked from the night before. I buy ground coffee and refillable pods for my coffee pot and make tea at home.

I use apps to save money. The Rakuten app garners me an extra $11-15 per month without changing my habits. I use the CVS app and their $59 yearly program that gives me $10 to spend each month plus 20% off CVS items and free shipping. CVS routinely sends out 30-40% off coupons so I get steep discounts on items that I use. 

I also use the EveryDollar app that lets me see where I am spending my money so that I am in control. I am less apt to make impulse buys if it isn't in my budget. Plus, I don't buy items because they are on sale but because I need them. Less clutter and waste. 

With gas prices ever volatile, my go-to biggest money saver is to utilize grocery store fuel point rewards.  The Kroger family of grocery stores, like Ralph's and Fry's, offer up to a $1.00 off per gallon for up to 35 gallons per fill up.  They always have 2x fuel points on gift cards, and have 4x fuel points on gift cards several times a year as a coupon in their app.  If I know I need something from another store like Michaels, or Lowe's, I price out what I want to buy on their website first, then stop at a Kroger for a gift card close to that estimated amount. Don't forget to include the Shell gift card to pay for the gas you're about to save on, too!  In addition, certain times a year they have 4x fuel points on groceries on Fridays.  You'd be surprised how quickly the points add up to $1.00 off.  I'd then line up the 3 drivers/vehicles in my household to maximize the full 35 gallon savings.  Calling it the gas shuffle.  This minor inconvenience saves up to $35 at fill up!!