Whether you’re looking to save it or make it, money is at the top of our minds. In case you’re looking for effective ways to build your savings or boost your emergency fund, try the following tips.

Cut cable

Cutting the money you spend on cable can save a lot. Switch to subscriptions like Hulu, Netflix, or Amazon Video. It’s likely that you are already using or have used at least one of these services anyway, so this won’t be an extra cost to you.

30-day No-spend Challenge

Try challenging yourself to avoid spending any money, except on necessities like rent, groceries, and utilities for the next month. Be sure to hold yourself responsible and encourage your spouse, partner, or roommate to join in on budgeting. If you have been shopping online a lot recently, trying this challenge could lead to significant savings.

Cook More to Save Money

You can save a considerable amount by swapping your lunches with sandwiches and leftovers. Enhance the savings by cooking dinner more often and cutting down on delivery and takeout. Experiment with new recipes or consider starting a fun cooking challenge with your roommates or partners. It could create a friendly competition with a tasty result in the end.

Lower the Rate of your Credit Card

Lessening your credit card rate is usually as easy as asking your card provider. Try negotiating a better rate by perhaps leveraging your high credit score or good payment history. In case your provider is not willing to lower your rate, consider exploring balance transfer options. Transferring your existing balance to another card could help you save on interest for a given period of time so that you can focus on paying your debt off or saving the extra cash.

Save a Small Amount for Every Paycheck

Even if money is currently tight, you can still find a few bucks to save. You could try putting aside $10 or $20 every time you get paid. This might seem small, but it is the first step towards saving for emergencies and any other possible expenses. You could make it easier by creating an automatic transfer at your bank from the checking account to your savings account at payday. Paying yourself first is a great way to ensure you always have cash.

Shop Smarter to Save Money

This is a no-brainer tip. Grocery bills can easily add up, especially if you have to buy more than usual because you’re spending more time at home. Generic brands and shopping discount stores can help you save big on your grocery bills. Instead of shopping at Whole Foods, consider grabbing your fruits and veggies elsewhere.

As a bonus tip, have a shopping list before going to the store. This will make sure that you’re only buying the things you need and keep impulse buying at bay.

Write Everything Down before you Buy

In case there’s something you have been looking to buy, write it down. Whether it’s a planner, a new pair of shoes, or a household item, just write it down and wait for a few days. This will help you decide if you really need the item or if it’s something that’s just nice to have. This trick will help you avoid impulse buying. If you’re still thinking about the item a week or two down the line, go ahead and make the purchase.

Pay Off Any Debt to Save Money

While it might cost you money now, paying off your debts will help you save money in the long run. For the short-term, it will save you on interest when you lower your principal amount, and when you pay off the debt completely, you will save the whole payment. If you want to save on your interest rate or monthly minimum payment immediately, try refinancing your student loans.

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