Hey!
Got a bonus, tax refund, birthday cash, or a little surprise windfall? 💸
You may not have Joni-level extra (she won the lottery—no joke! catch the Spending Intervention below👇), but even small amounts can go a long way!
We’re breaking down some strategies to ensure you make the most of some extra cash.
💸 Stretch Every Dollar with Brad’s Deals
Before you impulse-buy, check out Brad’s Deals. Their team of real humans finds 50–90% off deals on the stuff you’re already looking for from brands like Wayfair, Columbi, and Lululemon.
Instead of paying full price, let Brad’s Deals help you spend smarter. Whether you’re replacing a worn-out appliance, upgrading your sneakers, or finally grabbing that thing in your cart.
Spending less doesn’t mean settling for less. Sign up free and start getting the best deals sent straight to your inbox. **
👉🏻 What To Do With Extra $$$
First, park the money somewhere safe while you decide how you will spend/save/invest it.
We recommend a high-yield savings account like the one at CIT. **
You can get started with as low as $100 and watch your money make money, while you consider your best next steps.
Next, define your goals.
Are you looking for short-term peace of mind or long-term security? Wanna beef up your emergency fund? Payoff debt? Contribute to retirement?
Knowing the “why” helps guide the “how.”
Finally, it’s time to assign the money.
→ Set aside 10% for fun, guilt-free spending on the things or experiences you’ve been dreaming about.
→ Use the rest to move the needle: build your emergency fund, pay off high-interest debt, or invest for retirement.
Intentional money decisions now = way less stress later.
Want to hear more about what these tips look like with a real person budget?
Watch how we helped Joni in our Spending Intervention over on YouTube! ✨
This Week on Frugal Friends
On Tuesday, we talked about UNHINGED Ways People Save Money on Bills and strategies to stick to the radical middle.
Today’s episode is one of our favorites. (Let’s be honest, we’re all just a bit curious): How a LOTTERY WINNER Spends Her Money.
Tune in wherever you get podcasts and let us know what you thought of the episode over on our latest Instagram post!
Weekend Checklist
✅ Do: Clean up your finances AND your life with our Annual Spending Planner, our streamlined spreadsheet that will help you:
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Track your finances & debt
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Keep an eye on your net worth
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Monitor your insurance benefits
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Track your travel rewards & so much more!
✅ Meal prep: Cucumbers are in season this month, which means that prices are ⬇️ Grab a handful from your local farmer’s market and use this recipe to make dill pickles!
Peace ✌️
Kim
**Means this is a sponsored or affiliate section. We may earn a small fee or commission when you choose to try one of our sponsor or affiliate partners. But opinions are still 1000% our own.
