If you’re in the market for a new car, you may be considering a lease as opposed to purchasing a vehicle outright. With shorter terms and typically lower monthly payments, leases offer many attractive benefits on the surface. However, understanding the ins and outs of a lease is essential before making your decision. Below we’ll explore the pros and cons of leasing so you can make the best decision for your financial situation.

Are you thinking of going cashless, or do you think society soon will? Cashless living makes it easier to track your spending (but you may spend more) and it would hamper illicit businesses. Currency exchange when traveling abroad would be a thing of the past, and governments wouldn’t spend money printing currency anymore. Cash is free to use and it always works (even if your phone battery dies). Cashless has some advantages, but it looks like cash will be around for a while yet!

Most people will encounter a time where they will need instant access to cash. If you have a credit card, you may be considering a cash advance to help you out of a tight financial spot. However, cash advances should always be used with caution and only in emergencies.

Did you know robocalls can cost you money without selling you a thing? If you call back on a one-ring call or call a chat line if you live in a rural area, you can find yourself on the hook for a big bill. Here’s a basic rule of thumb: NEVER answer a call from an unfamiliar number. They’re likely a scam. And before you call an unknown number back, check it out on Google to see if the area code or the number itself is connected to scams.

Consumer saving and spending have seen their ups and downs during the Covid-19 pandemic. When the pandemic started, in general, people were spending less of their money, preferring to hold onto their cash partly or fully due to the unknown. As the pandemic continues, the shift in consumer savings over spending is starting to reverse course, making it harder to maintain the savings you built.

It might seem unromantic to talk about saving money on Valentine’s Day, but what’s more romantic than a balanced budget and a full savings account? But seriously, there are great ways to still have a romantic time without spending a ton. Set a budget and stick to it, and use a sales app to find the best prices on what you’ll buy. Buy flowers at a warehouse or discount store rather than online. Cook in if you can, creating a romantic dinner space anywhere you’d like in your home.

Keeping yourself entertained can keep your wallet drained, but you don’t have to go broke! Cut the cord and discover streaming services that can save you a bundle, especially if you share the costs. You’ll be amazed at what’s out there for movies, music and TV! You might have a hobby that can make you money, or volunteer to get admission to places. Be smart about your picks and you can have plenty of fun and still have money left for boring things like bills!

Why should you buy a house? Well, of course it beats living in a tent or in your parents’ basement, but it’s also great from a tax standpoint! You can deduct the interest you pay on your mortgage and your property taxes, and you might even be able to deduct what you pay for private mortgage insurance. Home equity loan interest may be deductible, and if you work from home you can look into claiming a home office deduction.