Here is a list of recommendations based on things I’ve personally used as a parent of 3 children looking to find savings and value in all of my purchases and subscriptions.
Any one of these items will save you money and provide value to your life and put you in a better position to be a prepared parent.
Some of the following links are affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. There is nothing recommended on this page that I haven’t purchased myself and love to use. Please read the full disclosure here.
Money-Saving Services:
1. Rakuten
Rakuten (formerly Ebates) gives you a free $10 just for signing up and will allow you to receive rebates for several of your online purchases.
Install the Rakuten browser extension on your computer’s browser(s) so you never forget to collect your rebates. You can install the extension first, and Rakuten will prompt you to sign up after it’s installed.
Having the free browser extension will automatically sync your online purchases with Rakuten and provide you a rebate if there is one to be collected.
Or get the Rakuten Mobile App. Go to the link for the app, enter your cell phone number and Rakuten will send you a link to install the app.
I personally have both so I can make sure to maximize my savings no matter what device I’m on.
Link to Rakuten Browser Extension
Money-Saving Subscriptions:
2. Netflix
Instead of overpaying for a Comcast bundle that always seems to be double what they originally offered and then triple in price after that, opt for internet only and stream limitless shows and movies with Netflix for approximately $16/month ad-free for the premium package – it’s even cheaper if you don’t want premium.
Your first month is free!
3. Hulu
If you’re not a fan of Netflix or if you want more options than just Netflix, then you can choose Hulu. Opt for internet only and stream limitless shows and movies with Hulu for either $6/month with commercials or $12/month if you want to watch free of ads.
Your first month of Netflix is free as well!
4. Amazon Prime
Amazon Prime will provide you with free, quick delivery options on some of your most desired items on Amazon and give you access to stream through them as well.
You can also get deals at Whole Foods Market, access to loads of ad-free songs and digital reading materials, games, and more.
They even have an option you can take advantage of if you are low income so that you can get the same services at a discounted price. You can get discounts on baby food, diapers, and more with the discounted program as well.
Link to Discounted Amazon Prime
Money-Saving Devices:
5. Streaming Device
You’ll need a streaming device to utilize the services of Hulu or Netflix unless you have a game console through which you can stream such as a PS4. Other free channels will be available through these devices as well.
Stream your Hulu or Netflix or Amazon along with your other free channels through an Amazon Firestick or a Roku Player.
I own both and don’t find one to be much better than the other. It’s just whichever you think you’d prefer.
6. MagicJack
If you have a cell phone but want a home phone for a secondary means of communication or maybe you don’t have a cell phone and still need a means of communication, then a MagicJack is a great option.
You will need to have an internet connection for the device to work, but you can buy the device for $50, and that covers the cost of it and an entire year of service. No monthly payment required.
At the end of your first year of service, you can pay an additional $35 and that will give you phone service for another full year.
I took advantage of this option and paid a $65 monthly internet fee to Verizon for years and it worked well for me.
Money-Saving Websites:
7. Mint
Mint is a finance, budgeting app, and website that I use to keep track of my bills, budget, credit score, and other factors that could help improve my credit. The service is free and is powered through Intuit which is the same company that powers TurboTax.
8. Experian Boost
Who couldn’t use some extra points on their credit score?
It’s based on your history of payments made through your bank account for specific bills such as your water bill, electric, and phone.
If you tend to make cash payments, this probably won’t work for you.
9. Trim
If you decide to get or keep Comcast, then Trim can negotiate with them to get your monthly bill lowered. They can also help you cancel subscriptions you don’t need or were unaware of still withdrawing funds from you.
Time-Saving Service:
10. Instacart
After a long day at work or a long week at work, who feels like going to the grocery store if they don’t have to? I know I don’t, especially with my three kids factored into the equation. I feel like my time is LI.MI.TED.
Save time and frustration by getting groceries delivered or have them waiting for you to pick them up with the use of Instacart’s service.
