Quick ways to find money

There is no such thing as a free lunch. But is there free money? YES! Perhaps not completely free of effort, but so close that it’s worth taking advantage of.

Rewards and Loyalty programs

Most retailers offer some sort of rewards or loyalty program, and if you’re a regular customer, it’s worth using these to get special promotions, cash back, travel points, free coffee, etc.

Some rewards programs are not even specific to a retailer - they’re just a way to promote stores or products that get you access to free money (ex. Groupon).

Swapping Goods and Services

Get free spa treatments, babysitting, car and home repairs, photography, clothes, tools etc. by offering friends, family, and acquaintances your own services, time and/or stuff you don’t need.

For community-wide swapping, check out Kijiji, Facebook Marketplace and other no-buy groups in your area.

Employee Matching Programs

Many employers offer matching programs that help employee’s save for retirement. Your employer may be willing to match your savings up to a certain percent - that’s almost as good as a bonus!

Tax credits

Taxes can be boring but it’s worth knowing about the tax credits that you are eligible for. Sure, you’ve technically already paid this money so it’s not really free (you’re just getting back what is rightfully yours) but if don’t file for it, you won’t get it.

Grants and Bursaries

If you’re a student, investigate grants and bursaries available through your school. Gaining access to them can be as easy as visiting your registrar’s office and filling out one form.

Compound Interest

And last but not least, a personal finance article wouldn’t be complete without some reference to compound interest. Don’t stuff your extra money under your mattress. Put it in a savings account, buy a bond, invest it, do anything to put it to work so that it will work for you - rather than you always working for it.

Article by Jessica Alen, MeVest Contributor