Money Moves Smart People Make to Keep More of Their Hard-Earned Cash

Managing money wisely isn’t just about being frugal, it’s about being strategic. Smart people know how to stretch their dollars further by taking advantage of the right tools and offers that protect wealth and fuel its growth.

Here are some savvy financial moves you can make today to keep more of what you earn — and even make a little extra.

1. Make Your Insurance Company Compete

Most drivers stick with the same car insurance year after year… and that’s just what the insurance companies are hoping for. Smart savers explore auto insurance quotes annually to find better rates for the same (or even better) coverage. And, it’s actually much faster and easier to do than you might think.

Make the smart move:
Compare auto insurance offers with this fast and free insurance quiz from Coverage. It takes just a few minutes and could save you hundreds a year.

2. Ditch Credit Card Interest

Carrying a balance on a high-interest credit card? You’re not alone — but you’re also paying way more than you should. A 0% intro APR balance transfer card allows you to take a break from those nagging interest payments. Take a look at this list of highly-rated 0% balance transfer credit cards from Bankrate.com to get started.

3. Get Expert Help from a Financial Advisor

A financial advisor can help you build a strategic retirement plan, optimize your investments, and ensure you’re making the best financial decisions for your future.

If you’re like most folks, you have questions or reservations about how much it could cost to work with an advisor, but did you know that with an advisor could increase your long-term savings by up to 3% per year? For example, on an initial portfolio of $500k, you could see $1.74m in incremental returns over a 25 year period by working with a professional to manage your finances. With a potential outcome like this, it’s worth it to explore this option.

Make the smart move:
Use this free quiz to find a certified financial advisor match and start optimizing your retirement strategy. It’s never too late (or early) to start!

4. Open a High-Yield Deposit Account

Smart savers don’t let their cash sit idle in low-interest accounts. They use deposit accounts that earn competitive interest, helping their savings grow without lifting a finger.Explore high-yield deposit account options that pay the most competitive rates.

5. Unlock the Equity in Your Home

If you’re a homeowner, you may be sitting on thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars in untapped equity. That’s money that can be used to consolidate debt, renovate, or fund other big expenses at a lower interest rate than credit cards.

Make the smart move:
Use a home equity loan or line of credit to tap into your home’s value and put your equity to work for you.

6. Build (or Rebuild) Your Credit Fast

Good credit opens doors to better interest rates, home ownership, and more financial freedom. Whether you’re just starting out or need to increase your score due to less-than-perfect history, the Self app can help. It’s surprisingly easy! Check out self.com to see how the credit building process works

7. Take Control of Your Spending with Smart Budgeting Tools

Tracking expenses and managing budgets isn’t fun — but it’s essential (seriously).

Smart people make it easy on themselves by using budgeting platforms that automate the process and offer real-time insights.

Make the smart move:
Try Monarch Money to create a custom budget, track your spending, and stay on top of your financial goals with ease.

Final Thoughts

Smart money moves don’t require a finance degree — just a willingness to take advantage of the right tools, at the right time.

Whether you’re reducing expenses, or optimizing wealth generation, these strategies can help you make the most of your money today.