11 Unique Money-Saving Tips Our Employees Swear By
America Saves Week may be over, but our savings game is just getting warmed up. This month we’re flipping the script on financial fitness. We asked the USF Credit Union team to share their go-to money-saving strategies—and they delivered.
From clever tricks to mindset shifts, this list is a treasure chest of everyday moves that keep more money in your pocket. Get ready to laugh, learn, and maybe even try a few yourself.
1. Pay Yourself First
Kevin D.
"Anytime I get paid, I take up to 10% to pay myself before paying anything else."
You deserve to be your own first priority.
2. Give Your Savings an Attitude
Stephen G.
"I like to call mine the 'Don’t Touch Me Fund' — it helps me stay on top of my own spending."
A little humor goes a long way in building good habits.
3. Split Your Paychecks
Natalie R.
"I pay all my bills with one paycheck and completely save the next."
This simple, no-fuss system keeps saving consistent and easy to track.
4. Pause Before You Purchase
Sala H.
"Because I have to manually load funds onto my PayPal card for online shopping, it gives me time to reflect on whether the purchase is truly necessary."
That small pause makes a big difference when it comes to avoiding impulse buys.
5. Delete & Save
Brandon T.
"I delete convenience apps and cancel subscriptions — if I really want something, I go to the store."
Sometimes the best way to save is to make spending less convenient!
6. Meal Plan Like a Pro
Angelia G.
"Planning meals on Sundays saves us about $100 a week — I only shop for what I actually need."
A little prep goes a long way in saving both money and time.
7. Make a List and Stick to It
Caterina G.
"I always make a grocery list and stick to it — plus I check Publix BOGOs to stock up and save."
No list = way more impulse snacks.
8. Shop Smart, Fuel Smarter
Audrey R.
"I always fill my gas tank when it’s half full — it saves money and helps with gas mileage."
Consistent habits like this help stretch your dollars over time.
9. Ask About Discounts
Robert L.
"If you're able, ask your auto insurer if there's a discount for paying your 6-month premium in one payment."
Just asking could save you hundreds.
10. DIY When You Can
Ashton B.
"BMW was going to charge me $300 — I fixed it myself for $7."
If you’ve got the skills (or YouTube) and time, doing it yourself can be well worth it.
11. Do Your Own Nails
Tina M.
Keeps it simple: "You can save some money if you do your own nails."
The savings on monthly salon visits? Surprisingly significant.
Want to Save for Bigger Stuff?
These little habits can help you work toward bigger things, like:
- An emergency fund
- Your retirement goals
- A vacation, house, or anything else on your list
Start small. Stay consistent. And remember—the key is just to begin.
Visit AmericaSaves.org for trusted tips, goal-setting tools, and savings calculators to help you stay on track.
Ready to Make Your Money Move?
No matter where you’re starting from, now’s the time to level up your savings game.
Pick a tip, try it out, and start keeping more of your cash where it belongs—with you.
Open a savings account with USF Credit Union, lock in your first goal, and start building the future you actually want.
USF Credit Union – Helping You Bank Smarter.
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