The Sneaky Cost of Subscriptions

It used to be simple. You paid for your phone, cable, and maybe the newspaper, and that was that. But now? Subscriptions are everywhere. From streaming TV shows and music to monthly deliveries of vitamins, snacks, or even pet toys, it’s easy to sign up for one… and then another… and then a few more.

Many of us enjoy the convenience of having what we need show up automatically. It feels good to have your favorite magazines, movies, or household items arrive without lifting a finger. But there’s a quiet downside to all that convenience: it can cost a lot more than we realize.

If you’re not careful, those monthly charges can sneak up on you. A few dollars here, ten dollars there, and before you know it, you’re spending $100 or more each month on things you may not even use anymore.

How It Happens

Most subscription services bill automatically. That means if you forget about one, they just keep charging you. Some companies even count on people forgetting. And when you’re signed up for five, six, or more subscriptions, it can be hard to keep track of what you’re actually using.

It’s not uncommon to think, “I’ll cancel that next month,” and then forget. Or maybe you signed up for a free trial that started charging you after a week or two. It happens to a lot of people, especially when the bill shows up online instead of in the mail.

What You Can Do

The good news is that you can take control of your subscriptions. Here’s how:

• Make a list of all your current subscriptions. Include TV streaming services, newspapers, fitness apps, medication deliveries, and anything else that charges you regularly.

• Check your bank or credit card statements to spot any you may have forgotten about.

• Decide what you really use and enjoy, and cancel the rest. If you’re not watching a streaming service or reading a subscription, you don’t need to keep paying for it.

• Set a reminder to review your subscriptions every few months. This makes it easier to stay on top of it going forward.

A Dollar Saved Is a Dollar Earned

You worked hard for your money, and you deserve to keep it. By trimming unnecessary subscriptions, you might be surprised how much you can save each year. You could put that money toward something you truly enjoy — whether that’s a weekend getaway, a new hobby, or just some peace of mind.

Sometimes it’s the little things that make the biggest difference. Taking a few minutes to look over your subscriptions can help you stay financially healthy and feel more in control.