10 Easy Money Tasks You Can Do in Just One Hour
Got a free hour today? Instead of watching TV or scrolling through your phone, you can use that time to save money and protect your finances. Here are 10 simple things you can do in about an hour that can help your money go further!
1. Check Your Credit Report
Mistakes happen—even on your credit report. These errors can lower your credit score and make it harder to borrow money. You might find things like wrong names, bills you already paid, or accounts you don’t recognize.
You can check your credit report for free once a week from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion at AnnualCreditReport.com. Look for anything that doesn’t seem right and report it.
2. Freeze Your Credit
Freezing your credit can stop scammers from opening accounts in your name. It’s free and only takes a few minutes to do online or by phone—for each of the three credit bureaus.
If you ever want to apply for something later, you can unfreeze it just as easily!
3. Get an IRS Identity PIN
Scammers sometimes try to steal your tax refund. To stop them, you can sign up for a six-digit IRS Identity Protection PIN. It helps make sure only you can file taxes using your name and info.
You can get one by creating an account at IRS.gov.
4. Ask for a Better Cell Phone Deal
Cell phone bills are going up! But sometimes, all it takes is a quick phone call to your provider to lower your bill. You can:
- Ask if there’s a cheaper plan
- See if you’re paying for extra data you don’t need
- Ask about senior discounts if you’re 55 or older
Companies like T-Mobile, Mint Mobile, and Consumer Cellular offer special deals for older adults.
5. Download Grocery Store Apps
Want to save on groceries? Download your grocery store’s app and join their loyalty program. These apps give you coupons, deals, and rewards.
Try apps like:
- Target Circle
- Flipp (to check flyers from many stores)
- Ibotta or Checkout 51 (to earn cash back for shopping)