2021: 3 Ways You're 'LITERALLY' Throwing Money Amid COVID-19 Pandemic

The pandemic just refuses to stop. And although we may all already start to feel the pinch and forced to tighten our belts (even if we are some of the lucky ones who still have stable jobs or savings), there are certainly so many more ways to save.

In fact, it is highly likely that you are spending money on some things that are not meant to be spent on and essentially just throwing money away. Learn about these three expenses you can or should do away with now.

And no, it does not mean just stop buying things you do not need (although that is very ideal!)

Purchasing Things on Installment or Layaway When You Can Pay Full

Layaways can be godsent. Buying things on installment can be a huge blessing - there is no denying that, especially when you are buying an important thing that you simply cannot just afford yet but already need.

Some stores have started to offer layaway plans in the middle of pandemic, knowing this is exactly what shoppers would feel comfortable with.

But in case you are just making purchases on layaway or installment because you do not want to shell out the full price - probably because the COVID-19 pandemic makes you think you should hold on to your cash on hand longer, then it is possible that you are merely throwing away money in effect.

Even if layaway appears e a sensible way to hold onto something you want to buy, it's simply not being smart and certainly not the way to make savings.

Layaway locks you into a certain price and - if ultimately financed by a credit card - additional interest charges. You will eventually pay them and for a higher price. In a COVID-19 uncertain world, you might not even be sure you have the money down the road already.

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Not Taking Advantage of the High-Interest Savings Account

People have a general fear of banks, thinking the institutions are just out to get their cash. In the middle of the pandemic, these fears can intensify as people strive to hold on to their money longer instead of placing them in the banks.

If you want to have a savings account, choose a high-interest savings account. This can grow the money and build your emergency fund so much quicker than the traditional bank account.

If you do not have a savings account, or only have a traditional bank account, you're likely to be leaving free money on the table.

The average savings account interest rate is 0.09%, based on the data of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp., but high-interest savings accounts offer higher than this. It can reach higher than 1.00%, and over time, that difference can be felt.

Paying Full Price on Anything

Chances are, the COVID-19 has made most of our shopping online. Online shopping is notorious for vouchers and discount codes. To buy anything full price online is being simply unwise.

In fact, there are dedicated programs for cashbacks and discount codes for just about anything you can buy online. If you cannot help buy shop in the middle of pandemic, or order food in, the best you can do is look for some codes for instant savings.

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