AARP Rewards Online Community Smart Saver Contest

[AARPTeri]

Share your best savings strategies—and what you’re saving for!

Join the AARP Rewards Community Smart Saver Contest here in the AARP Rewards Connect forum and inspire others with your favorite money-smart tips. Whether it’s a clever budgeting trick, a savvy shopping habit, or a small daily habit that adds up over time, we want to hear about it.

If you’re using the AARP Rewards program to help you save and achieve your savings goals, please share that in your post too!

By sharing your savings strategy in this thread, you’ll be entered for a chance to win one of six $100 gift cards.

How to Enter

Reply to this post and share one or more of your best money-saving tips, stories, or strategies during the Contest Entry Period of March 23, 2026, through April 19, 2026, by 11:59 PM ET on April 19, 2026. See link to Official Rules below.

Let’s help each other save smarter. Post your tip and join the conversation!

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Open to legal residents of the fifty (50) United States and the District of Columbia who are 18 or older. Odds of winning depend on number of eligible entries received. Void where prohibited. Official Rules: https://community.aarp.org/t5/AARP-Rewards-Connect/AARP-Rewards-Online-Community-Smart-Saver-Contest... 

[PhillipsFamily]

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.

[t700360b]

I use my grocery rewards too. I also use apps like Fetch, I scan receipts (any receipt gives me 25 points, some receipts give special rewards for products) products like Ortega products, Pepsi products, all kinds of products earn you special rewards. 

[liz0804]

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.

[CraigF603228]

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. 

[KellyV988382]

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!!

[Mrsp8]

I divide larger expenses like car insurance by 12 and then save that amount into a separate savings account, so that I don't have to pay extra fees for paying monthly. I save by paying every 6 months. 

[lindapeck]

When the seasons change, like winter to spring, I see friends putting the heat on in the morning, and then switch to air conditioning in the afternoon……this can add up in cost…. I have found that wearing layers can keep you comfortable, and not cost you money…… this year March has really been up and down, so the savings do add up.

[mbedland35]

As a child of the Depression, I have are VERY frugal.  I even  put the lightly used plastic sandwich bags turned inside in the washer & shake out to let drying.  Make me CRAZY for sure!!!

[SereneSeagull]

I’d be worried about microplastics.  But most of us already have them by now.

[JamesM972236]

We set up shelving in our basement and turned it into a shopping "pantry."  We've stocked up on items we use often. Of course, we stock up (and restock) on such items as they go on sale; many are lost leaders.  This includes everything from cans of veggies to hairspray to deodorant to Pam cooking spray to boxes of cereal to garbage bags, body soap, coffee, soda, shampoo, hvac filters, hair dye, chips, baggies, toilet paper - you get the picture.  We go shopping weekly at our local store to purchase fresh items such as veggies, milk and bread.  It has saved us lots and lots of money since we've retired.

[bonniemerald]

I have found my library to be a great source of free entertainment. Mine also has free programs to learn history, crafts, do art, and even teaches a musical instrument. I can check out or listen to books, movies, music, for free. Your library is the best value in your town.

[wendykw]

 I keep a paper pad to write down things I'm getting low on. I call it my "If On Sale" list. I check to see if anything on that list is on sale at either of the nearby grocery store that week by checking their websites. If I need something that isn't on sale, I make sure I buy it at the store with the lowest price. I buy store brands for most things, and I use my freezer to take advantage of meat sales.  One of those grocery stores has a Senior Discount Day, so I shop there on Thursdays. I pay for everything with my credit card that gives me cash back. I DO NOT carry a balance on any of my credit cards. If I have an emergency bill, like some car repairs in February this year, I use the credit card and then pay the bill from my emergency fund or a withdrawal from my IRA. 

[SvetlanaD101337]

I’m very intentional about how I manage my money and look for ways to save wherever I can. One of my main strategies is paying off my car loan as quickly as possible to reduce the amount of interest I pay over time.

I also try to avoid unnecessary purchases—if I don’t truly need something, I don’t buy it. Instead, I focus on decluttering and sell clothes or accessories that I haven’t used in over a year.

Before making any large purchase, I always shop around and compare prices to make sure I’m getting the best deal. I also take advantage of smaller opportunities to save or earn money, like completing receipt surveys and opening bank accounts that offer bonuses or rewards.

Overall, I combine careful spending with smart strategies to make the most of my money.

[la61892508]

I've bought my last couple cars with money from my savings account - the last one was a 2 yr old car which saves a lot of money. Years ago when I paid off a car loan, I started putting away that monthly amount in my savings account. That money added up so when I was ready I had enough to pay for the car and not even have a car loan. But I do keep cars for quite a few years in order to save up enough.

[Sandraj133]

I never carry cash and use my credit cards for everything, including utilities, groceries, evenings out, etc. Most cards are targeted to specific purchases and pay back a higher percentage for these purchases..5% vs 1% or 2% on all other purchases. (for example).I pay the balance in full every month and earn the cash back. I use my rewards for restaurants and department stores. It’s my favorite way of spending time to treat myself to something special. 

[TTangoLima]

Sandra:

  Please rewrite your post using your own words. I would appreciate it. Most of it is taken word for word from my earlier post:

 "use my credit cards for everything, including utilities, groceries, evenings out, etc. Most cards are targeted to specific purchases and pay back a higher percentage for these purchases..5% vs 1% or 2% on all other purchases. (for example).I pay the balance in full every month and earn the cash back."

[TTangoLima]

 NEVER pay full price for anything! Coupons, online codes, sites like Retail Me Not and Rakuten offer great deals that are always changing. Many sites let you upload a store receipts for cash. AARP membership, it gives you a huge percentage of Walmart+ & other discounts. Groupon. If you like computer games I recommend FreeCash. You won't get rich but i've made $800+ in about 9 months   playing games through their site. 

  Finally, it never hurts to ask. I just saved     $50/month on my xfinity internet bill just   by asking for a discount! Be nice and always use the person's name.

[Jan12R13]

 I took a hard look at the outside of my house and realized that every screen, doors and windows, were in shabby shape: holes, torn, and sagging. I had a few coupons from my local hardware store which I used plus, I discovered for every 3 screens I brought in to be fixed, I got one done free. My house is now spruced up and looking great for just a few dollars.

[SereneSeagull]

I watched my father when I was young re-screen our windows himself.  I do it myself now, and it’s actually a lot of fun!

[JohnLEisenberg]

So, I live alone and cook a Family Pack of Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs in a variety of marinades to mix things up in a 9"x13" Pyrex and reheat it during the week. I also microwave a Spaghetti Squash and portion it out for the week and then sauté some fresh spinach for well-balanced meals. The other dish I like to make are Cabbage Steaks about 3/4" thick topped with ground lamb which are quick and easy to prepare, I can yield 5 portions from a 1lb. package of ground lamb and one good sized cabbage. For the cost of going out to a restaurant for one meal, I can prepare a weeks' worth of dinners and know exactly what the ingredients are.

As the saying goes: You Are What You EAT!

Also, I have opted for a Walmart+ Membership with the Home Delivery Option which saves me considerable time and money by shopping online and having everything delivered and then I occasionally go to ALDI for some items that Walmart doesn't carry.

Between those two, the savings over the other grocers is more than 30% not to mention that it significantly lowers my Carbon Footprint!

When I think of all the time I spent on the weekends going to the food store, gathering items, unloading to checkout and then bagging, driving home, and unpacking, the ability to just have to unpack the items I ordered online and the way Walmart allows me to build my cart until I reach the $35.00 Minimum for FREE Delivery, the Walmart+ Membership pays for itself in no time.

Time is the most Precious Commodity we have in our Senior Years!

[TTangoLima]

Great ideas! Chicken thighs are the best. I just read that most pro chefs use thighs instead of breasts, because not only do they taste better, but they're impossible to overcook.

[OtgonbaljidS831072]

I’ve always believed that saving smart doesn’t mean sacrificing quality. One of my favorite ways to save is by buying Sprouts’ boxed milk when it’s on discount or sale. It’s high-quality, lasts longer than regular milk, and comes in paper-based cartons. not plastic which makes it better for the environment too.

[TTangoLima]

 I use my cash back credit cards for everything, including utilities, groceries, evenings out, etc. Most cards are targeted to specific purchases and pay back a higher percentage for those purchases..5% vs 1% on gas or  groceries for example. I pay the balance in full every month and earn the cash back. I normally make around $1500-$2000/yr and have never     paid a penny in interest. You must be sure   to pay balances off in full every month.

[wendykw]

 I haven't paid interest on a card for 8 years now. I use my cash-back cards for purchases, but I've never considered using them for my utilities.  I'll have to look into that. I use my cash back to help pay the credit card bill. 

[TTangoLima]

 Wendy,

 Some utilities and even other services may charge a fee for paying by CC. For example, I wanted to use one of my cards to pay my homeowner's insurance premium. That would have been a nice payback! But they charged a 3% fee, so it would have been a wash. I'm glad you're onto this little money making hack. Saving money has become like an obsession for me now!

[JohnLEisenberg]

Ditto! I have a Walmart Card and an Amazon Card that gives me 5% Back Every Month, and the cost savings alone pays for my Prime and Walmart+ Memberships not to mention the cost savings in time for having everything delivered! My way of lowering my Carbon Footprint and not having to deal with the other shoppers!

[TTangoLima]

Same here, John. The only thing I hate about walmart delivery are the plastic bags! I even wrote to corporate headquarters a few times with a great idea ( i thought so anyway). Customers could pay a one-time fee ( i haven't worked that part out yet LOL) and have their stuff  delivered in plastic bins. Before the delivery arrives, the customer sets out the empty bins from the last delivery and the delivery person will take those with them. I'm thinking of those stackable bins, so they won't take up much space in their vehicles.

 I really despise those one-time plastic bags, and they use 1 for each  item, I swear.

[CatherineD469569]

When I worked I had to take a taxi to and from. Now that I’m retired I save the money I WOULD have spent weekly. I also save money by having 25.00 taken out of my account into savings along with that. Further I save money by not only turning everything off in my apartment but UNPLUGGING all unnecessary electrical items, lamps extension cords and TV when not in use.  With these three ideas you are bound to save like I do. I’m not rich but because I’m efficient I have a little “play” money and am able to do things I struggled to before. 

[MikeF467658]

I never carry coin change, if i purchase something and receive coin change then it immediately goes into a storage container and when the container gets full I take it to the bank. Sometimes ill even throw in a few $1 bills to make the pot even better when its full!

[rhondas621310]

I save by looking every week for the food flyers and laundry sections if I need something that is on sale i compare prices to see which is the lowest. Most manufacturers lower prices on the same items store within the same week but one store maybe able. To give you a lower price than another due to how many they can buy and sale with a larger inventory