The United States ranks at number 15 on the list of the top 20 most expensive countries to live in. As the cost of living continues to increase, people are keen about finding ways to negate the effects of inflation. Technology comes with a host of benefits that can save time, boost productivity, and safeguard savings. Discover the following four pieces of technology that you can use to help you save money.
Download Money-Saving Apps
Saving money is available to us literally in the palms of our hands. Today, you can find a cell phone app for almost anything, including budgeting apps. Money-tracking apps such as Mint, PocketGuard, and Level Money are free and link to your bank accounts. These types of apps can extract data from your bank accounts so that you can track your spending in real time. They also allow you to set spending limits on your budget categories to help curtail overspending.
Voucher and coupon apps can help you find deals on various items from groceries to restaurant meals. Groupon, Amazon Local, Shopkick, and SnipSnap are some popular ones.
Install a Smart HVAC System
One of the most costly expenses in a home is the heating and cooling system. Running your HVAC system throughout the summer and winter months is heavy on your electricity bill.
Install a smart HVAC system that offers zoned heating and cooling. Multi-zone technology allows you to control the temperatures in different parts of your house. You can also switch off heating or cooling in rooms that are seldom or never used. Not only will the family be happy with the preferred temperature in their rooms, but you’ll also be ecstatic with the decrease in your electricity bill.
Trade Your Gas Guzzler for an Electric Vehicle
If you’ve been on the fence about buying an electric vehicle (EV), consider taking the leap. Apart from the obvious saving on gas, some utility companies offer lower electricity rates when charging vehicles during off-peak hours.
A more enticing incentive is the tax benefit. Since the purchase of an EV is often more expensive than a gasoline car, and to encourage motorists to support positive environmental practices, the U.S. government provides a tax credit if you buy an electric vehicle. Depending on the type of car and whether the vehicle is a fully electric or plug-in hybrid, you can get between $2,500 and $7,500 cash back.
Ditch the Landline
Seriously, who needs a landline at home anymore? Cell phones and VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) technology are prompting the demise of the landline. Today, many people use their cell phones to communicate. Shop around for a good cell phone plan that offers low call rates, and you can cut the extra cost of a landline. VoIP applications such as Skype, WhatsApp, Google Hangouts, Viper, and Facebook Messenger allow you to voice call, video call, and send text messages free of charge.
Even if you’re not a tech geek, with a little research, you can find many ways to save money with technology. Scout around to find the ones that suit your lifestyle.
