How To Save More Money In The New Year

2020 has been a difficult year for all and many people have faced financial difficulty due to the ongoing pandemic. Whether you have periods of no work, received furlough pay or have had reduced income in any form then you may want to save a little more in the next year! There are many easy ways in which you can boost your finances. You could be saving up for the holiday you missed out on, a rainy day or your first home. Whatever it is, read this handy guide on how to save money.

Use comparison websites

There are so many comparison websites on the market now. They offer the cheapest rates for whatever you’re looking to get. You can compare everything from insurance, broadband, car finance, loans, credit cards, energy, supermarket prices and much more!

Switch your bank account

Switching your bank account can be an easy way to earn some cash. Many banks offer money and also free gifts for choosing to stitch your current bank account over to them. For example, you can get up to £250 instantly for switching over to certain banks. You can also receive 12 bottles of wine from Virgin wines when you choose to switch to Virgin Bank. Many banks also offer an ongoing savings interest and payout every month so you can benefit all year round!

Use cashback apps and websites

Cashback websites are all the rage. Websites such as TopCashback offer a percentage back on purchases from many online retailers. There are many special offers for new members and it’s really easy to use. All you need to do is select the retail from the TopCashback website, follow the link and shop as normal! You will then receive the money in your TopCashback account which you can then withdraw at a later date.

Use a broker to sort your car finance

Many people still have the misconception that car finance can only be offered through a car dealership. You can secure a finance deal at a dealership, but they usually only have a limited number of lenders. A car finance broker is essentially the middleman. Even if you are applying for bad credit car finance, a car finance broker matches you up with the most suitable lender for you and gets you the best deal for your situation. They do all the legwork for you and then you can get the car you want from any reputable dealership that is verified by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Sell your unwanted stuff

If you’ve had a big Christmas clear out of your clothes, technology or kids toys then you can make some serious cash. There are so many ways in which you can sell your old stuff! You could use online websites such as eBay, Depop, Amazon, Facebook Marketplace, MusicMagpie, Gumtree or Preloved to sell your unwanted stuff. Be aware that some sites such as eBay do take a small percentage for selling your stuff for you so make sure you check before you start listing items. You could also consider going old school and taking your stuff to a car boot sale in your local area.

Meal prep and freeze meals

Meal planning is a great way to save money and reduce food waste. Try and stick to a meal plan for a weekly shop and only get the stuff you need. This way you will reduce the amount you spend by popping to the shops every night. If you’re guilty of a takeaway too many times a week because you can’t be bothered to cook, then you could consider making more food than you need and then freezing an extra portion for another night!

Don’t be a brand snob

We all have the famous brands that we can’t live without but trying a few of the cheaper brands can really save you money and there are many swaps that can taste very similar! Also, consider supermarkets such as Lidl and Aldi which have been praised for their nearly identical dupes to your favourite home brands.