Most probably agree that in this day and age, the amount of the government's stimulus check won't take you far, but I believe a "blessing is a blessing" and I am grateful for any help we can get. Although our finances haven't changed much with my husband being an essential worker, our grocery bill and utilities have nearly doubled. These boys are eating us out of house and home as many of you might relate. Even with the added expenses, we've decided to use this "bonus money" as an opportunity. Everyone's situation is different and I realize that, so in the event, your check wasn't already spoken for before it hit the mailbox, I have compiled a shortlist of ways to make the most out of this money.
Pay Bills:
Whether it's sitting in your account for next month's or unexpected expenses, the first and most important thing you can do is make sure your bills are paid. After all, that was the purpose of the checks. It is essential that you use this money wisely, and make sure you and your family have the essentials. If that's taken care of, consider making a balloon payment or paying off a credit card debt.
Stock up on Food:
As I mentioned in my home, with the kids needing to eat more meals at home and the additional snacks needed to fulfill the "I'm bored" munchies, a smart and easy way to spend your extra money is by stocking up on groceries. Buy value packs and larger quantities to last longer and stretch your dollars. In most cases, the family packs cost less when you add it up. Remember to stay safe and stay home when you can, so consider ordering your groceries online and picking them up. Kroger Pickup has been my go-to for a while now so I just stuck with what I know. There are also other services out there (i.e., Walmart Pickup & Delivery, InstaCart, Shipt, etc) that make it easy to stay home.
What I like most about ordering online is that I don't buy extras at the counter or buy things I already have in my cupboard. By shopping in the comfort of my home, I can get up and go check to see if I already have rice or roasted tomatoes. I don't have to guess and risk bringing home doubles. I can make my list and pay a very minimal fee ($10 or less!) to do my shopping for me! Plus, in doing so, I'm supporting local people, who are able to keep their jobs and those who depend on shopping trips to make some extra money.
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Support Small and Local Businesses:
The stimulus check is the government's way of ensuring our economy doesn't crash but that will only work if we continue to spend money. We've been intentional about shopping local. Instead of supporting large chains and franchises, we've been aiming to support local restaurants (which are typically a little more pricey) on the nights we eat out, typically on Friday and Saturday. The extra money gives us an excuse to splurge the extra $20 or so to support local entrepreneurs.
Spruce Up Your Home:
Since we're spending more time in our homes, it might not hurt to spend some time and a little extra money to make it more appealing, and even fun. Add brighter colors, change the pillows on the couch, buy a new patio set, or plant some flowers. If you're satisfied with your living space, how about creating a fun area stocked with art supplies, Legos, board games, puzzles for the kids. For outside, maybe a trampoline, a new basketball goal, or painting hopscotch squares. These will cut down on the "I'm bored!" and "There is nothing to do!" comments from the kiddos.
For my two sons, who are 4 and 12, I'm considering a punching bag to limit the endless love taps and help them to release the bottled up energy. This will also help to relieve some of my stress, worrying about who will get hurt this time. Yes, I said next time! We've already had an ambulance trip to the ER.
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Invest in Your Family's Future:
If there's a business idea you or your children have been wanting to try for a while, look into getting that started. With the extra time and money, you can learn more about opportunities in the industry and take baby OR BIG steps toward building your family legacy.
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