"Just save more" is easy advice when you have money to spare. When you're struggling to cover basics, it feels impossible. But even small amounts matter.
"I started saving $5 a week. People laughed. But after a year, I had $260—enough to cover a car repair that would have wrecked me financially."
Start Ridiculously Small
Forget the "save 20% of your income" advice. Start with what you actually can:
| Amount | Weekly | Monthly | After 1 Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| $5 | $5 | $22 | $260 |
| $10 | $10 | $43 | $520 |
| $25 | $25 | $108 | $1,300 |
Pro Tip
$5 saved is infinitely more than $0. Build the habit first; increase the amount later.
Where to Find Extra Money
The Quick Wins
| Category | Potential Savings |
|---|---|
| Subscriptions | $10-50/month (audit and cancel unused) |
| Food delivery | $50-100/month (cook or pick up instead) |
| Bank fees | $10-35/month (switch to no-fee accounts) |
| Phone plan | $20-50/month (switch to Mint, Visible, etc.) |
The Bigger Moves
- Negotiate one bill (internet, insurance, phone)
- Sell unused items
- Pick up one shift or side gig per month
- Use cash-back apps for spending you'd do anyway
The "Found Money" Rule
Do This
Any money that feels "extra" goes straight to savings:
- Birthday money
- Bonus at work
- Cash back from apps
- Selling stuff
This isn't money you budgeted for—so you won't miss it.
Make Saving Automatic (Even If It's Small)
Set up automatic transfers for the day after payday:
- Start with $10-25 per paycheck
- Use a separate
- Out of sight, out of mind
Watch Out
Don't link your savings account to your checking for overdraft protection. You'll accidentally drain it.
When You Can't Save Right Now
Sometimes there's genuinely nothing left. That's okay.
Focus on:
- Covering your basic needs
- Not going deeper into debt
- Finding ways to increase income
Quick Win
This week: Find ONE subscription or expense you can cut. Move that exact amount to savings—even if it's $5.