We’re all looking for ways to put a little more money in our pockets. In fact, you probably have money with your name on it that you can take easy steps to collect.
It could be money that you don’t remember you had, or maybe never knew about to start with.
For example, when was the last time you cashed in your credit card points? Most cards offer rewards in the form of cashback, “points” you can redeem on goods or services, or airline travel miles. Look for your point totals on your monthly statement, and don’t forget to redeem them. Most expire between 18-36 months after you earn them.
Second, check your gift cards.
A new study from the personal finance website Bankrate.com found almost half (47%) of adults have at least one they haven’t used.
The average amount per person is almost $200.
Even if you don’t like the store, use it when you need to buy someone a gift so you can save ‘your’ money.
Ted Rossman with Bankrate.com says you should check your wallet, your purse, your junk drawer and your glove compartment.
“Wherever these things might be hiding,” Rossman said. “A good homework assignment is to put them to use.”
A third way to find money is to check to see if you have unclaimed cash.
A lot of times the state ends up with money that’s yours and holds it until you request it.
Check every state you’ve lived in.
In Pennsylvania make sure you check the PA Treasury’s Unclaimed Property Database.
Bottom line, try all three and you may discover some cash that can make a dent in your monthly bills, or boost your budget.
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