Key Points:

• Small changes like canceling unused subscriptions or paying with cash can help you save quickly.
  
• Automating savings and bill payments can help you stay on budget.
  
• Review your spending habits regularly, from bank charges to energy use, to find areas where you can save fast.
  

A recent report found that 27 percent of U.S. adults have no emergency savings, and 59 percent are uncomfortable with the amount they’ve saved. Creating an emergency fund — ideally enough to cover three to six months of living expenses — and saving regularly can help break the cycle of living paycheck to paycheck.

Whether you’re trying to save money quickly to prepare for unexpected bills or to grow your savings faster, here are 25 useful tips to get started.

1. Review your current financial habits
Before you make any changes, understand how you’re spending money. Track your expenses for a month and separate them into fixed and variable costs. Fixed costs include rent and insurance. Variable costs include groceries, gas, dining out and entertainment.

2. Create a budget
A budget helps you take control of your spending. You can use a notebook or budgeting apps to track where your money goes and set goals. This helps you avoid unnecessary expenses and save faster.

3. Work on paying off debt
High-interest debt, especially from credit cards, can make it hard to save. Paying it down quickly will reduce how much you pay in interest and free up money for savings. Try the snowball or avalanche method to stay motivated.

4. Use other transportation options
Studies show that over half of all trips are less than three miles. Walking, biking, or using public transportation can reduce gas, repair, and insurance costs.

5. Review your subscriptions
Many people forget about subscriptions they no longer use. Check your statements and cancel any services you don’t need. Apps can help you track and manage these.

Tip: If you use a service often, consider switching to an annual payment plan to save around 10% to 20%.

6. Automate your savings
Set up automatic transfers from your checking to your savings account. Some apps round up your purchases and save the difference. This helps you save consistently without thinking about it.

7. Automate your bill payments
Late fees can add up fast. Set up automatic payments to make sure your bills are paid on time. Just make sure there’s enough in your account to avoid overdraft fees.

8. Consider switching banks
Some banks charge fees that can slowly eat into your savings. Look for banks with lower fees or better interest rates. Online-only banks often offer savings accounts with higher interest and no monthly fees.

Tip: Some banks offer cash bonuses when you open a new account — sometimes up to $3,000.

9. Open a short-term CD
If you don’t need access to some of your money right away, a certificate of deposit (CD) is a good option. These accounts usually offer higher interest rates than savings accounts. Right now, some one-year CDs offer over 4% interest.

10. Join rewards and loyalty programs
Grocery stores, pharmacies, and other retailers often offer savings through rewards programs. These can include coupons, discounts, or points you can use later.

Tip: Choose a credit card rewards program that fits your lifestyle. For example, if you travel often, pick one that offers travel-related rewards.

11. Use cash or set limits
Spending cash instead of using a card can help you avoid impulse buys. If you prefer using a credit card, look for one that allows you to set spending limits or alerts.

12. Cut out convenience services
Americans spend a lot on convenience, like delivery services. You can save quickly by cooking at home or doing small tasks yourself.

Tip: Use meal planning apps to make cooking easier and cheaper. Cooking in batches can save time and money during the week.

13. Earn cash back on purchases
If you use credit cards, use ones that offer cash back. Apps and websites like Rakuten and Ibotta can also help you earn extra savings. Always pay off the full balance each month to avoid interest.

14. Buy in bulk
Shopping at warehouse stores can save you money on items that don’t spoil quickly. Check the price per unit to make sure you’re getting a good deal.

Just be careful not to buy too much perishable food that could go to waste.

15. Use coupons
Use coupon websites or browser tools that automatically apply discounts when shopping online. Coupon use can save the average household more than $1,000 per year.

Tip: Join coupon groups online or sign up for store newsletters to get the latest deals.

16. Refinance loans to get lower rates
Replacing your current loan with one that has a lower interest rate can save money. It usually means lower monthly payments and less interest paid over time.

Keep in mind, refinancing often comes with fees, so compare lenders to find the best deal.

17. Look for better insurance rates
Don’t stick with the same insurance company year after year. You might find better deals by shopping around or bundling your home and car insurance.

18. Use a credit card without annual fees
If your credit card charges an annual fee, consider switching to a no-fee version. Many still offer rewards without the cost.

19. Try no-spend challenges
Choose a day, week, or even a month where you only spend on essentials. It helps you notice where your money goes and builds better habits.

20. Cut one spending habit
Pick one habit to cut — like daily coffee runs or online shopping. Cutting back can make a big difference over time.

21. Buy used instead of new
You can save money by buying secondhand clothes, furniture, and electronics. Many used items are in excellent condition and cost a lot less.

22. Try DIY projects
Doing things yourself — like painting, sewing, or yard work — can save you a lot of money. There are free tutorials online to help you learn how.

23. Lower your energy bills
Simple steps like using a smart thermostat or sealing windows can lower your utility bills. Energy-saving appliances and government rebates can help too.

24. Make the most of credit card rewards
Learn how to use your credit card rewards wisely. Some cards offer points or miles just for signing up or for certain types of purchases.

25. Improve your credit score
A higher credit score can lower your interest rates and help you save money on loans and insurance. Check your credit reports often, fix any mistakes, and try to pay bills on time.

Bottom Line:
Saving money quickly isn’t just about spending less — it’s about making better decisions. By reviewing how you spend, setting up automatic savings, and making smarter financial moves, you can start saving more right away.

Whether your goal is to build an emergency fund, pay off debt, or prepare for a big purchase, using even a few of these tips can help you make real progress.