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When You Are In FINANCIAL Turmoil

Updated: Jul 5

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A late fee. A surprise bill. Groceries that often cost twice what they used to. It adds up fast. And before you know it, your paycheck’s gone.

But it doesn’t have to stay that way.


Here’s 9 smart moves to help you stretch your money, lower costs, and even find extra cash—without getting a second job.

1. Get out of $20,000 or more in credit card debt

Debt can be suffocating. If you have a bunch of credit card, student, or medical debt—stop before you make your next payment. With interest rates rising as high as 36%, your payments might not even be making a dent… while banks keep collecting.

But there’s a better way.

A program called Accredited Debt Relief helps thousands each month by working with creditors to reduce what people owe (sometimes by over 40%) and rolling it into one lower monthly payment. They handle the tough part so you can focus on moving forward.

There’s zero upfront fees or commitments, they’ll run a free evaluation and show you options. And for most people, just seeing you have options is a huge relief. To get started, just answer a few simple questions.

💡 Tip: Use their app, too. You can track your debt progress in real time.

2. Nebraska driver? Cancel your car insurance

Most Nebraska drivers still let their car insurance auto-renew, even when rates go up. In 2024 alone, national premiums surged by an average of 16.5%¹ — and many didn’t even realize it.

But a growing number of drivers are flipping the script, canceling early and switching online by using a smart insurance tool most people don’t even know about.

It’s run by the company Insurify and reveals real-time rates (updated daily) from dozens of insurers — helping drivers cancel early and save big. It’s backed by new pricing data and is already unlocking up to $1,025 in annual savings² for some drivers.

How it works:

  1. Enter your ZIP code here, or select your discounts below.

  2. Answer a few short questions about your vehicle, current provider, etc.

  3. Instantly get real-time rates from insurers competing for your business, and compare them side by side.

✨ Which Discounts Apply to You?

I drive less than 50 miles per day I’m considered a safe driver I have more than one car


3. Turn your spare time into extra money

Big brands and companies spend millions trying to understand what people really think—and this site lets you get a piece of that.

A company called Survey Junkie pays users to answer simple questions about their habits, preferences, and product experiences. It’s easy to use, free to join, and perfect for spare moments—whether you’re scrolling on the couch, waiting in line, or killing time at night.

How to start earning:

  1. Join the site here — it’s free and takes less than 2 minutes

  2. Answer a few short questions to build your profile

  3. Get matched with surveys and start earning right away

You can cash out with as little as $5.00, and get paid through PayPal or gift cards. Some users even make it a daily habit.

💡 Tip: Start with shorter surveys to unlock higher-paying ones.

4. Get paid for trying new mobile apps

Most people try out new apps or games without thinking twice—usually for free. But a growing app called Freecash flips the script by paying you to explore other new apps, complete simple tasks, or play games on your own schedule.

You can pick the offers that interest you, and get paid through PayPal or gift cards. Some users even rack up earnings daily, just by playing casually.

💡 Tip: Payouts can vary, so check for new offers daily.

5. Get internet or phone company discounts

This might sound awkward, but it works more often than you’d think. Call your internet, phone, or cable provider and just ask if there are any promotions or discounts available for your account. If you mention cancelling or switching providers to save, you’ll usually get somewhere.

Plenty of people have had success doing this with companies like SiriusXM, Xfinity (Comcast), Verizon, AT&T, and Dish Network. Mention you’re looking to lower your bill or considering canceling—and be polite but firm. Companies often have loyalty rates or hidden deals they don’t advertise unless you ask.

💡 Tip: Call during business hours and ask for the customer retention department. That’s a department with the most flexibility.

6. Use your birthday month to score freebies (and a free meal or two)

You’d be surprised how many places offer free stuff just for being born. Restaurants, coffee shops, beauty brands, and even retail stores often dish out birthday deals if you’re signed up for their rewards program.

Examples: a free drink from Starbucks, a burger from Red Robin, burrito from Moe’s, free pancake meal from IHOP, or a $5 coupon from stores like CVS or Ulta. Create a throwaway email just for rewards programs and sign up a week or two before your birthday—then enjoy claiming your perks all month long.

🔥 Quick money wins to try today:

7. Making “minimum” payments? This debt relief program could cut your interest

If you’re stuck making just the minimums, outrageously high interest charges could be draining your finances — with no real progress on your debt.

A private program is helping Americans with over $20,000 in debt consolidate what they owe — with some rolling up to $200,000 into one manageable payment. It works for credit card, medical, and even personal loan debt.

Over 700,000 Americans have already enrolled, and your credit doesn’t need to be perfect.

See if you’re eligible (free, takes just minutes)💡 Update: As of July 2025, this program is still available.

8. Turn household clutter into instant cash

Most of us have things around the house we don’t use anymore—clothes, electronics, small appliances, even furniture. Instead of letting it collect dust, turn it into cash.

Snap some decent photos, write a quick description, and list on platforms like Facebook Marketplace, OfferUp, or eBay. A little effort can go a long way.

9. Turn a skill into income (even if you’re not a pro)

Whether you’re good with words, design, tech, or admin work, there’s someone out there who needs your skills.

Sites like Upwork and Fiverr help freelancers connect with clients looking for one-off or ongoing help. You choose your rates and workload, which makes it a flexible option for extra income.

⭐ Reader favorites: quick money wins worth trying now

If you only try one thing today, make it one of these. They’re simple, smart, and could help you save or earn real money—starting now:

Final thoughts

You don’t have to do everything on this list—but choosing just one or two could be the momentum shift you need.

The right tools are out there. Whether you’re trying to save, earn, or just breathe a little easier, taking one small step today can help tomorrow feel a lot less overwhelming.

Stay scrappy. Stay smart. You’ve got this. ✌️

Disclaimer:¹ The 16.5% average rate increase in 2024 is from ValuePenguin’s “State of Auto Insurance in 2025” report.² Based on savings claims from Insurify, where shoppers may save up to $1,025 annually by comparing auto insurance quotes. Individual results will vary.


 
 
 

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