tv

6 Ways You Can Get Paid to Watch TV

Paul Michael — Thu, 31 May 2018 08:00:17 +0000

Full disclosure: I work in TV. I am a creative director at a premium cable channel, and I can tell you right now that I get paid to watch TV. I don't watch it all day, every day. But I do spend some portions of my week watching series from my own network, and occasionally, competitor networks and stations.

I love my job. I love being able to read scripts and watch series, in many cases a year before they hit the airwaves. And I can assure you, there are many opportunities for you to earn money doing something you love — watching TV. Here are just a few.

1. Work for a company that airs TV series and movies

Let's start with my own personal area of expertise. From HBO, Showtime, and STARZ, to Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon, there are thousands of jobs available in the TV and movie industry. You may think that the only people getting paid to watch TV at these companies are high-end executives and producers, but that's not the case. In my own company, everyone from IT and legal, to HR and creative services, has access to a wide variety of movies and series.

We are often required to watch our own series to be educated on what our own company does, much like employees at a brewery get free ale and hotel employees get free rooms. The more you know about what your company does, the better you are at your job. We also have companywide screenings of series and movies, and similar companies do the same for their employees, too.

If this sounds like the field for you, take some time to search the career web pages of any company offering TV and movie services. You may be surprised at the opportunities available.

2. Start your own YouTube channel

It's a slow burn, but if you're willing to invest the time and a little money, it can really pay off. As you probably know, there are a lot of wealthy YouTubers out there. Some of them create original content, some are comedians, some play video games. And, some watch TV and movies and record their reactions, or provide reviews of the latest movies and series. In fact, there are even YouTubers who review YouTube review channels! That's some Inception-level stuff right there.

The best way to start on this path is to review the movies you either really love … or really hate. Audiences love both kinds of reviews, with the latter usually being more funny and satirical. All you need to start is a computer or smartphone with a decent camera (if you use a phone, get a tripod).

Record your review, upload it, and share over social media. As you get more comfortable, start adding graphics and some simple cutaways using basic editing software. As your views and subscribers grow, you can monetize your YouTube page, and eventually, if you're big enough, see some major dollars roll in. (See also: How to Make Money by Creating YouTube Videos)

3. Download apps and visit sites that reward you for watching

There really is an app for that. Well, multiple apps, actually. One of the most popular is Viggle, which rewards you for logging in and watching TV shows from providers like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon. It's done on a points-per-minute basis, although sometimes you can double, triple, or even quadruple the amount of points you earn. You can also get bonuses for engaging with your friends on social media, and you can redeem your rewards for gift cards, cash, and even debit cards.

You can also check out Perk, their sister company, which offers cash rewards for watching TV, playing games, and shopping, and Inbox Dollars, which also offers surveys. Will it make you rich? Doubtful. Will you get cash for watching TV and movies? Yes. What's not to love about that? (See also: Effortless Ways to Make Money Online That Don't Require Skills)

4. Become a Netflix "tagger"

Fair warning: There are only about 30 of these positions in existence, and they are in extremely high demand … for good reason. Taggers are a team of 30 media-savvy reviewers who get paid to watch Netflix day in, day out. The job of a tagger is to watch the content and tag it as it's being viewed with relevant metadata. In layman's terms, that includes factual information about the content, like year of release, language, cast, and so on, but also the tone, style, and how to categorize it for a search.

As FastCompany reported this past March, it's a dream job for Sherrie Gulmahamad, who watches over 20 hours of TV and movies per week in her role as "originals creative analyst." But, as she pointed out, it's not always an easy ride. Much like a food critic, you don't always have an appetite for what is put in front of you.

"I've also been assigned a 60-hour Colombian crime drama about Pablo Escobar's hit man," she told FastCompany. "No, I did not have to watch all of it — but I tried!" If you want to try and get into Netflix tagging, Gulmahamad recommends first getting into an archival or library studies program, and going from there.

5. Become a Nielsen family

Neilsen is a household name in America, and is the driving force behind all those ratings figures you see for TV series and movies. You can become a part of this process.

There are a couple of ways to go about it; one is by choice, the other by chance. First, you can go to Nielsen Digital Voice and join the panel. Thousands of people in the U.S. do this, and it's a way to provide information on what you're watching via the internet. The rewards aren't going to let you quit your day job, but you'll get the chance to win up to $1,000 every month, with 400 members getting a chunk of the monthly $10,000 sweepstakes.

The other way is the traditional Nielsen route, and that is purely in the hands of fate. Nielsen families are randomly selected from a section of different communities across the nation, and although you have just as much chance as anyone else, there are only 40,000 homes being monitored. With over 126 million households in the U.S., that's a slim chance.

6. Take up mystery shopping

These days there are all kinds of mystery shopping gigs available, and they are not just limited to retail stores and restaurants. You can actually get paid to go to the movie theater and check out the latest movies, and who wouldn't want to be paid for an activity you usually have to pay for?

One of the biggest names in theater mystery shopping is VeriTes, and they are looking for independent contractors in all 50 states. You can also check out CFA or Imyst.

Now, while you will obviously have fun watching the movie, you do have to pay attention to the entire experience and report back on it. Everything from the purchase of the tickets, the customer service, the quality of the snacks, and the resolution of the movie will come into play. Make sure to bring something you can take notes on (not your phone — that's a bad move in a movie theater) and file your report to receive your reward. (See also: Check Out These 5 Legit Mystery Shopping Gigs)

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This article is from Paul Michael of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

3 Subscription Services Every Traveler Needs

Amanda Gokee — Wed, 19 Apr 2017 08:30:06 +0000

Subscription services are everywhere these days, and some of them are great for frequent travelers. We've compiled a list of convenient ways you can save money through subscriptions that will work whether you're at home or traveling.

Netflix

Since it came out in 1997, Netflix has grown to be an international entertainment giant. And with good reason. While it can be great to watch movies or TV shows from the comfort of your home, Netflix can also travel with you to 190 different countries where you can stream content around the world.

I have personally used Netflix in both France and Mexico. The selection of films and TV shows varies from country to country, but I love having the option to watch Netflix while I'm traveling. First, it gives me the ability to easily watch my favorite shows while I'm abroad, which can be a big comfort when I'm surrounded by a foreign language and culture. But secondly, I also like Netflix in that it is adapted to the local context and offers a good selection of some of the classic and contemporary films from the country I'm visiting.

For instance, in Mexico, there's a very popular Netflix original show called Club de Cuervos, which is about a fictitious soccer team. Having a Netflix subscription made it easy for me to check out local pop culture. Watching local shows is also a great way to practice a foreign language, and you can always turn on the subtitles if you're struggling to understand.

At $7.99 a month for online streaming to one screen in standard definition, a Netflix subscription costs less than one movie ticket and about one-seventh the price of the average cable bill. For that you get a wide selection of movies and TV shows in your home or hotel.

Spotify

One of my favorite subscriptions is Spotify. For a music lover like me, the premium subscription is well worth the price tag. The sign-up offer gives you a month for free, and then it costs $9.99 a month after that. You can save even more money with a student or family subscription.

With the premium subscription, you're freed from advertisements popping up every few songs when you stream, and you get the option to download tracks to your device, which is great for travel. Having the tunes on your phone or tablet saves you the cost of data that you'd need to use to stream songs.

Plus, with either the free or paid versions of the service, you have access to a huge library of music that's more affordable than buying lots of CDs or album downloads.

Amazon Subscribe & Save

If you're spending lots of time away from home, it can be hard to keep up with tasks like keeping the house stocked for when you get back. When you get home from a trip, you'll want to spend time with friends and family, not out buying toilet paper.

Amazon's Subscribe & Save can help by automatically delivering household staples, including groceries, office supplies, and beauty products. You choose the products you want to receive and set up an automated delivery. Deliveries of at least five products on a monthly basis are eligible for discounts of up to 15 percent.

If you normally spend $300 a month on these types of items, that means you're setting yourself up for a monthly savings of $45 and the cost of gas, not to mention the time it takes you to do these errands yourself.

Depending on how often you're on the road, you may need to check in just to make sure you don't end up with a large supply of paper napkins that you don't have space for.

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This article is from Amanda Gokee of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

3 TV Must-Haves Once You Cut the Cable Cord

Kyle James — Tue, 28 Mar 2017 09:30:33 +0000

Is it time for you to join in on the cord cutting movement? You know that you're only watching a few channels out of the hundreds that you're paying for. And cutting the cord on your cable bill will undoubtedly be good for your budget. But can you still watch the shows you love? Yes. You'll be surprised at the variety of options you have without paying for hundreds of channels you don't use.

Here's a basic breakdown of the great options you have available when cutting the cable cord. (See also: How to Cut Cable and Still Watch What You Love)

An HD antenna

The first option to consider when you're ready to cut the cord is an HD antenna that you can install in your home. Here are a few of your best options.

Mohu Leaf 50 Indoor Antenna

For about $50, you can pick up a Mohu Leaf and depending on where you live, score a bunch of HD channels for free. The Leaf has a 50-mile range and can be placed indoors on a window or bookcase shelf. To figure out how many free HD channels you can get at your home, visit NoCable.org and enter your address.

Antennas Direct 50 Clearstream Eclipse

If you're cutting the cord from DishNetwork or DIRECTV, the Antennas Direct 50 is a great alternative. This is due to the fact that you can install the antenna directly onto your abandoned satellite dish, or a wall or window indoors, making installation really easy. You can then connect the antenna to the existing infrastructure of your home and start watching free HD channels immediately.

Mohu Sky 60 Antenna

If you live in more of a rural area, especially with mountains and hills, the Leaf probably won't get you many free channels. So instead, check out the Mohu Sky 60, which should be attic- or roof-mounted and will offer a much better solution. For example, I live 10 miles out of town with hills in every direction. The Leaf gives me only two HD channels, while the Sky 60 gives me six HD channels including FOX, CBS, and ABC.

A subscription to a streaming service

For the rest of the TV shows and movies you've come to depend on through your cable or satellite service, choose among these affordable streaming services.

Netflix

A Netflix streaming account starts at $7.99 per month, or $9.99 per month if you want HD quality. While you won't pick up cable channels with Netflix, you will pick up a ton of original programming as well as thousands of movies, TV shows, and documentaries. Besides viewing on your TV, you can also access all of Netflix's programming on your tablet, computer, or smartphone.

Prime Streaming

Prime Streaming is available free to all Amazon Prime members. Prime membership costs $99 per year and gets you access to thousands of titles, including popular TV shows and movies. You can also use Amazon's streaming service to rent or buy current TV shows and new movies to view immediately. You can also pay an additional fee to get access to HBO, Cinemax, Starz, and Showtime. Plus, get access to special programming like animé, foreign dramas, and more, as add-on services.

Hulu

If you're interested in streaming the current season of your favorite TV shows, get Hulu. For $7.99 per month, you can stream many of the current shows that won't be available on Netflix until next year. Movies are also available on Hulu.

DIRECTV NOW Streaming

Just recently DIRECTV introduced a streaming option to try and capture a new customer base and it actually looks promising. For $35 a month, you can stream live TV from over 120 channels plus over 10,000 on-demand titles. With the cheapest DIRECTV satellite package coming in at about $55, this is a solid alternative if you don't want to give up your satellite options.

HBO Now

For $14.99 per month, you can access HBO's original shows, documentaries, and their movie selection, without having a cable subscription. This is the main difference between Now and HBO Go — which you're only able to access with cable.

Livestream

There still aren't many streaming options for sports programming, but Livestream is one of the few available at the moment. This app allows you to stream live events through your Chromecast, Roku, or Apple TV. The app is free and you can also use it on your iPhone or Android device.

Sling TV

If you're one of the many who hasn't cut the cord because of a lack of streaming sports options, Sling TV just might be for you. Sling TV is the first true internet-only alternative to a traditional cable package. For only $20/mo, you can get the Sling TV Orange package which includes ESPN, TBS, and CNN plus about 25 other popular channels.

A streaming device

Using streaming services doesn't mean you can only watch on your computer. There are some nifty devices that allow you to stream these shows to your TV, so you can sit back and still enjoy shows and movies on your big screen TV. Most newer TVs have the required USB port that the streaming sticks and players directly connect to. On older TVs without a USB port, you might be able to use an HDMI-to-USB adapter cord, but it depends on your HDMI setup in the back of your TV.

Amazon Fire TV Stick

The Amazon Fire TV Stick plugs into the back of your TV and lets you immediately start streaming. Of course, you need a Wi-Fi connection in your home, too. The Fire TV Stick is compatible with all of the popular subscription services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Video, as well as free streaming options like YouTube.

Roku Streaming Stick

The Roku Stick stands out from the Fire TV stick in the number of apps available, as well as a convenient search feature. The Roku Stick actually searches across all streaming services to find you the exact program you're looking for.

Chromecast

This is Google's streaming device, and it also uses your Wi-Fi connection to stream music and videos on your TV. The main difference with Chromecast compared to the options above is that there's no remote. You use your phone, iPad, or laptop computer to control your programming.

Apple TV

Much like the two options above, Apple TV comes equipped with all the video/streaming apps you could ever need. Apple TV has over 1,600 of them, and the video quality is outstanding. It also connects to your iTunes library so you can seamlessly access your favorite music on your TV.

Gaming consoles

If you're a gamer, you might not need a streaming device at all, because new gaming consoles come equipped with a streaming interface. Nintendo Wii, Xbox One, Xbox 360, PS3, and PS4 are all gaming consoles that are able to stream TV through their wireless connection, so you can download the streaming apps (Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, etc.) and watch your favorite shows and movies through your console.

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This article is from Kyle James of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

How I Saved $3,190 With a $50 HDTV Antenna

Dr Penny Pincher — Wed, 07 Sep 2016 09:30:30 +0000

Three years ago, I realized it was ridiculous to pay $110 per month for satellite TV when I could get it for free. Sure, I liked the large selection of channels I was getting from satellite TV, but free is hard to beat. With a $50 purchase to get free channels, I have saved over $3,190 so far. Here's how I did it.

Is TV Ever Really Free?

Before the days of cable and satellite TV, all channels were free. Local TV stations would broadcast a signal over the air for anyone to pick up through the "rabbit ear" antennae on their TV set. Why would big stations broadcast their content for free? Advertising. TV stations sold commercials to generate the income they needed to pay for their programming, not to mention a bit of profit for the TV station.

You may not realize it, but all local TV stations are still broadcasting for free. In recent years, TV stations have been required to upgrade their transmitters to broadcast digital high definition channels. This means that in most areas, you can get high quality digital TV service for absolutely free! All you need is an HDTV antenna.

What Is an HDTV Antenna?

You may remember large rooftop TV antennae from years ago. The one at my house when I was growing up even had a rotor that turned the antenna to tune in different stations. Now you can get good reception using a small indoor HDTV antenna that is about the size and shape of an iPad.

Indoor HDTV antennas start at under $10. If you live in a metropolitan area with TV stations within about 25 miles, this may be all you need. I live a bit further away from town, so I went with an antenna that includes a powered amplifier to boost the signal and receive from about 50 miles away. You can still buy an outdoor TV antenna, but in most cases, an inexpensive indoor antenna works quite well to pick up local stations.

How to Get Free TV With Your HDTV Antenna

Of course, you'll need a high definition TV to receive HDTV with your antenna. Most high definition TV sets have an antenna input. Simply attach your HDTV antenna to the antenna input using the coaxial cable that comes with the antenna. If you have a powered amplifier, you will need to plug the amplifier into an outlet to make it work.

Most indoor HDTV antennas are designed to hang neatly on the wall like a picture. The problem with mounting an antenna this way is that you may need to reposition the antenna to get good reception of some stations. I use a bookshelf near my TV to place my HDTV antenna in different positions to get good reception. If you don't get a signal at first, try moving the antenna to different locations. Sometimes laying my antenna flat and upside down provides the best reception.

Here's How I Saved $3,190 With a $50 HDTV Antenna

Three years ago, I decided to "cut the cable" and get rid of my TV service, using my HDTV antenna to get free TV instead. Here's how I saved $3,190.

Satellite TV was costing me $110 per month, so over three years this adds up to $3,960. I spent $50 for an indoor HDTV antenna, and about $20 per month for Netflix and Hulu subscriptions, or $720 for three years.

My savings so far is: $3,960 — $50 — $720 = $3,190!

Even if you pay much less for your cable or satellite TV package than I was paying, you can still save a lot of money by using free HDTV instead. If your TV bill is only $60 per month, that still adds up to $2,160 over three years.

How to Save Money With Free HDTV

When you buy an HDTV antenna, keep the package and receipt. If you are not happy with the channels you get in your area, you can return it and get your money back.
All HDTV antenna models perform differently. I returned one antenna before finding another model that worked better.
Unless you live near a metro area, go with an amplified HDTV antenna to get more stations.
The sooner you cut your TV subscription channels, the more money you can save. Try an HDTV antenna to see if you can get some free stations in your location and start saving money on TV as soon as possible.
If the selection of free TV stations in your location isn't enough, use inexpensive streaming video services such as Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime video to round out your TV viewing options. These services cost about $8–$10 per month.

You might think that using an HDTV antenna would be less convenient than subscribing to cable or satellite TV, and that you would get fewer channels. You would be right. But I would rather have 3,190 extra dollars than pay for a bunch of channels that I rarely or never watch.

Did you get a free HDTV with an antenna? How much did you save?

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This article is from Dr Penny Pincher of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

How Family Plans Can Save you TONS

Ashley Eneriz — Tue, 19 Jul 2016 09:30:38 +0000

While house phones and cable may be on their way toward obsoletion, the subscription market is booming. You can find a subscription or membership plan for just about anything — your favorite TV shows, your cell phone, music, and even Uber.

While these subscription plans can save consumers money, especially if you switch from a $100 cable bill to a $7.99 Hulu bill, they can still add up. Thankfully, many subscription or membership plans offer discounts for families. Here are the top shareable accounts you can take advantage of to save money.

TV Streaming

There are quite a few TV streaming services available right now. Most of them don't openly advertise a family sharing plan, but you can activate the streaming on multiple devices.

Netflix

Netflix allows users to stream shows on up to six devices, have up to five profiles, and even stream simultaneously on up to four devices at a time. (See also: 6 Tricks for a Better Netflix Experience)

Hulu

Membership can be activated on however many devices you wish, but streaming can only be done on one device at a time.

Amazon Prime

Amazon Prime allows users to add one adult to their account, and have up to four children profiles. Sharing Amazon Prime means the shared user has access to the large library of Prime shows and movies. Two different shows can be streamed at the same time on two different devices.

HBO Now

HBO Now doesn't offer specific rules on sharing, but several devices can use the same HBO account, though simultaneous streaming is limited. Funny enough, HBO CEO Richard Pepler said, "It's not that we're unmindful of it, it just has no impact on the business. In fact, the practice of sharing usernames and passwords serves as a terrific marketing vehicle for the next generation of viewers."

Spotify

Spotify just rolled out its revised family plan in May. It allows you and up to five family members to enjoy a Spotify Premium account for only $14.99 a month. That works out to about $2.50 per person. What is neat about Spotify's family account is that six people are not sharing the same account. Instead, all six individuals in the family get their own premium account, which means they can play their favorite music ad-free and offline.

There are some restrictions to Spotify's family plan. All members must reside at the same address, though it is unclear how Spotify enforces this rule. Also, the account head will be billed the $14.99 each month, so you could get stuck with the $14.99 monthly bill if other family members don't pay you their portion.

Uber

Uber launched its Family Profiles in March for select cities. Even though Uber called its new program "Family Profiles," the company does not discriminate if you add friends or coworkers. Once this feature is more widely available, the profile can include up to 10 riders under one payment option.

This makes it easier to arrange rides for college students in other cities or to help older family members who cannot drive to do errands.

Cell Phones

It is no secret that you cell phone providers offer family share plans. Before we got married, my husband and I joined his sister's family plan with Verizon. It was the cheaper alternative to getting on our own plan. Somehow our bill kept growing (because his sister's family was charging us the same amount as their phones, even though they were using premium services). We were able to pay less on our own family plan with T-Mobile.

With T-Mobile, we are not on a contract and only pay about $55 for both of us. To get that price, we added my father and sister at $25 per line. With T-Mobile, the phones are pricier, since you are not under a contract. However, there are no extra charges for using too much data or texting. When one of us goes over our allotted data, instead of receiving a hefty charge, our browsing and streaming just slows considerably.

Another affordable family plan to consider isCricket's five lines for $100. The basic plan starts at $40 ($35 after autopay discount). Then you can add on a second line for $30, the third line for $20, the fourth line for $10, and the fifth line should be free. This would equate to $20 per person on the plan (or less, depending on the autopay discount).

Kindle Library

If you share an Amazon Prime account with another adult, they will be able to access the Kindle Owners' Lending Library if they own a Kindle. Even if you do not add on someone to your Amazon Prime account, you can still lend out books to friends and family members, as long as the book has lending rights.

Using family plans and sharing accounts is a great way to save money on membership and subscription costs. Just be sure to know the terms and conditions before sharing. Some companies have specific programs designed for family sharing, while others frown upon sharing your password.

What's your favorite way to save money on subscription services?

This article is from Ashley Eneriz of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

The 3 Best TV Shows About Money

Brittany Lyte — Wed, 07 Oct 2015 13:00:37 +0000

Watching too much TV might strain your eyes, but it certainly won't strain your wallet. That is, if you're watching the right programming. Some TV shows can help you learn the basics of investing and money management in an entertaining fashion. Here are a few to get you started.

1. Mad Money

On CNBC's Mad Money, host Jim Cramer touts advice such as the perfect stocks for young investors and the best way to play a market plunge. To be fair, he doesn't just tout it — he screams it. Rants, props, sound effects — all of it is geared toward helping Cramer's target viewers, we regular Joes, increase their stock market successes by training them to think like professional investors.

In other words, his goal is to transform market newbies into bonafide wizards of Wall Street. Cramer's opinions are bold and fiery — but also savvy. He fields questions from viewers and conducts lively interviews with Wall Street's major players, gleaning valuable insider insight. There's rarely a dry moment. While you may not agree with all of Cramer's strategies, or his flamboyant style, there's little room for doubt that Mad Money is the most engaging finance show on TV.

Words of wisdom: "You can't make money in the market if you don't understand it," Cramer has said. "It's like playing Monopoly without knowing what Pennsylvania's worth, or how much it costs to put a hotel up on Boardwalk. My job is to make sure you have not just the facts, but also the rules — and those rules are always changing."

2. The Truth About Money

Ric Edelman has testified before Congress, participated in an SEC Roundtable, and accepted appointments by Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush to be a delegate at three National Summits on Retirement Savings. The top-rated personal financial advisor's good money sense is perhaps only rivaled by his knack for self-promotion.

In 2012, Financial Planning named Edelman one of nine advisors with "vast Twitter followings." On his television show, The Truth About Money, which airs on more than 200 public television stations, Edelman dishes remarkably practical advice. He forgoes theatrics for the nitty gritty on paying for college and handling mortgages, as well as retirement and supporting aging parents. But that doesn't mean he's a bore. Edelman is high energy and a packs a whole lot of personality, making his show anything but boring.

Words of wisdom: "If you are terrified of the stock market, you need to invest in it anyway," Edelman says. "A lot of people are terrified to go to the dentist, but they go anyway. Don't let your fears stop you from doing what you need to do."

3. The Profit

If given the chance, you probably wouldn't put down a large sum of your own money to help turn around a stranger's struggling business. Marcus Lemonis, however, does exactly that. And he does it on national television.

The CEO of Camping World, a multi-billion dollar company, puts millions of his own dollars on the line during episodes of The Profit — and he does so with a startling rate of success. Using his entrepreneurial mind, Lemonis tweaks and sometimes completely revamps whole aspects of these floundering companies' business models in order to make himself a hard-fought, unlikely profit.

Words of wisdom: "Ultimately do what you love," Lemonis has said. "In the short term do what you have to do to pay your bills, which is necessary, but live conservatively and save so that you can create an opportunity to do what you love."

What's your must watch TV show about money?

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This article is from Brittany Lyte of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

The 10 Best Personal Finance Jingles of All Time

Paul Michael — Tue, 23 Jun 2015 11:00:16 +0000

Since the early 1920s, advertising jingles have been coaxing their way into our conscious, and subconscious, minds. Advertising agencies use them as a way to plant a seed, so that when you need a specific product or service, you are instantly reminded of one in particular. They don't even need to be poetic, or artfully crafted. Perhaps the most famous jingle of all time was the one that ended the Mad Men finale recently — "I'd like to buy the world a Coke." And who can forget the Oscar Meyer wiener jingle? Even the dull old world of personal finance can be livened up with a jingle.

Here, in no particular order, are 10 of the best personal finance jingles of all time. They are catchy, they are memorable, and while you may have otherwise forgotten about the product or services they recommend, you certainly haven't forgot the tunes!

1. FreeCreditReport.Com

You cannot deny the instant hits that were the FreeCreditReport.com jingles. There were nine of them in total, and they garnered millions of hits on YouTube. Chances are, you're already humming the tune after seeing the title.

The most memorable of the nine talked about a guy trying to buy a car. It began: "Well I was shopping for a new car, which one's me? A cool convertible or an SUV? Too bad I didn't know my credit was whack, 'cause now I'm driving off the lot in a used sub-compact. F-R-E-E that spells free, credit report dot com baby."

Of course, someone had to pay for those ads, and that money came from signups that were not free at all; you had to pay for a $14.95 per month service after a $1 seven-day trial. The truly free credit reports AnnualCreditReport.com where you can request one from each of the three major credit-reporting bureaus every year.

2. State Farm

It's impossible not to start singing "Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there" when you see or hear the words "State Farm." Specializing in insurance products, the company was founded in 1922 by a retired farmer and insurance salesman called George Jacob Mecherie. The ads and jingles have actually evolved from something quite sappy and sentimental into something more memorable and witty, with the latest being about State Farm insurance agents magically appearing when regular members of the public (played by actors) sing the little ditty. Admit it. You're singing it now.

3. Kars 4 Kids

Personally, I think this has to be one of the worst jingles ever perpetrated on the American public. It's just awful. It's mundane, it's monotone, it's irritatingly repetitive…and yet, when you hear it you are humming it for the rest of the day. Of course, it doesn't hurt that this is a product we can all get behind. Instead of just giving your old, broken car to a junkyard, you can donate it to Kars 4 Kids and also get a nice write-off on your taxes. But oh, that jingle…make it stop!

4. American Family Insurance

This is hardly an inspired jingle, lyrically speaking anyway. The advertising agency simply put the name of the company to music, using a woman's voice to sing the name instead of speaking it. However, sometimes the simplest ideas are the best. It may have been years since you saw or heard a jingle my American Family Insurance, but now that five or so seconds of warm and fuzziness is stuck in your head for the rest of the day. Sorry about that.

5. Marine Midland Bank

You have to blow the dust off the archives to remember this one from a bank that no longer exists (although if you're part of the HSBC banking group, MMB is in there…somewhere). The jingle will bring memories flooding back to many of you though — "Tell it…to the marine!" Tell what? Well, whatever you wanted, from a loan to a decent interest rate, MMB was the place to go.

6. Bank of America

Considering the double meaning of the word "bank," it's surprising more financial institutions didn't use a "You can bank on us" direction for their tagline or jingle. Clearly the biggest one to exploit this was Bank of America, who in the late 80s employed the jingle — Bank On the Leader, Bank of America. It's catchy and memorable to this day. (Scroll to 9:01)

7. JG Wentworth

Something that a good jingle will do (and remember, in this case good doesn't mean clever), is drill the company's phone number and service into your head. If it can do it quickly and with a tune you cannot forget, you have a winner. JG Wentworth is still getting mileage out of this operatic jingle, which goes "Call JG Wentworth, 877-cash-now!" Repetitive, and infuriatingly impossible to get out of your head once you've heard it, you cannot deny it works. As for the service they provide, learn the downsides before cashing in an annuity or settlement.

8. TSB (Trustee Savings Bank)

This one may be unfamiliar to anyone who did not grow up in England, but it has to be included for the way it made the word YES become synonymous with a bank. The jingle, "TSB…the bank that likes to say YES!" was everywhere for a few years in England, and it was an approach that not only made the bank appear friendly, but also very open for business. At a time when many banks were saying no to people for loans, both business and personal, TSB had these ads running. The clever part — it doesn't actually mean anything! Just because they LIKE to say yes, it doesn't mean you're getting your loan. It doesn't even mean you're getting an account. Smart thinking from the ad agency.

9. GoCompare.com

Another one from the UK, you will be humming this one all day even if you've never heard it before. As jingles go, it's right on the money. It's repetitive, it includes the company name a bunch of times, and it does it with all the subtlety of a sledge hammer — "Go compare, go compare, to be sure when you insure first go compare!" And it's all done with some bizarre parody of a Pavarottian-style singer whose moustache is curlier than wine corkscrew.

10. Mastercard International

We've saved the jingliest jingle for last (Scroll to 3:03). It's odd to think this one came out of the 80s, it has all the style and sophistication of an ad from…the 1970s! Yes, it's "So worldy, so welcome, so worldy, so welcome." Looking at it now, it seems a tad dated. But in the 1980s, it was too, so don't feel too bad. However, this is one that will be stuck in your head when you're trying to get to sleep tonight. Don't say we didn't warn you.

Which personal finance jingles do you remember, even when you don't want to? Post your favorites in the comments section.

This article is from Paul Michael of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Get Free Stuff by Eating Cereal, Drinking Soda, and Watching TV

Kim Owens — Tue, 05 May 2015 21:00:21 +0000

How would you like to get free stuff for eating cereal, drinking soda, and watching TV? Sounds like fun (and also a bit couch potato-y), right? Well, the four companies listed below will help you do just that. If you're looking for low energy ways to earn free rewards through programs that give you stuff for doing what you already do, put down the cereal bowl for a minute and check out these four programs.

Kellogg's Family Rewards Program

While Kellogg's sells more than cereal, most of us associate it with Frosted Flakes and Tony the Tiger — "They're Grrrrrreat!" Even better, Kellogg's also rewards loyal customers with free stuff.

By joining the Kellogg's Family Rewards program, members collect points that can be redeemed for rewards, including high value coupons, magazines, toys, and gift cards for retailers like Best Buy, Old Navy, Applebee's, Starbucks, and more. Just buy what you usually do and let the points add up.

When selecting a product, simply look for the Kellogg's Family Rewards logo on the package. That logo indicates there is a code (or codes) inside. Take that code and enter it online to get your points. The number of points earned per product varies.

Kellogg's also offers bonus code opportunities where members don't have to purchase anything.These codes are sent out via e-mail or social media, or can be found online by doing a search for "Kellogg's Rewards codes." Members can also earn bonus points by purchasing specific products promoted by Kellogg's.

Is it worth it?

Well, if I were going to purchase the product anyway, and it was on sale (and I had a coupon), I would totally take a few seconds to enter my point codes to earn a few free gift cards. Free is free, my friends.

Drink Soda. Get Free Stuff. Cool.

Even if you don't drink soda, you're sure to have indulged in a Coke or Pepsi product at least a few times in your life. If so, have you thought about joining one or both of their rewards programs?

My Coke Rewards

The My Coke Rewards program premiered in 2006, and was revamped in January of 2015. Similar to many programs, people who join My Coke Rewards earn freebies by collecting points and redeeming them. Points are earned by looking for codes which are located on Coke products (i.e. underneath bottle caps) and entering them in the online rewards portal. Coke has also introduced a tiered program where members can achieve Bronze, Silver, or Gold level by completing "status" activities such as tweeting and other social media related tasks. Each tier offers perks like bonus points and unlocks different rewards, such as gift cards to retailers like Target and Walmart, and products like Keurig coffee machines.

Personally, I rarely drink soda, but I still drink a lot of bottled water. I won't be a fast points earner, but looking under the caps and entering codes in exchange for free gift cards a few times a year is low-effort enough for me to participate.

Pepsi Experience Points

The Pepsi Experience Points program is different than My Coke Rewards in that members don't have to purchase anything to earn rewards. There are no codes on caps or packages to look for to get points. Instead, the Pepsi program revolves around members participating in activities Pepsi sponsors or wants to promote. Activities include reading targeted articles, checking out specific websites, watching videos, tweeting, liking Facebook pages, and so on.

The reward options are different as well, focusing more on logo-stamped merchandise such as camping chairs, baseball caps, and sweepstakes entries. Their gift card options are limited, too (as of this writing there were only two gift cards available). Still, points are easy to accrue since everything is done online. It can feel like Pepsi is paying you in points in exchange for free promotion… which is basically what it is. However, if you don't mind, free stuff could be in your future.

Watching TV Just (Sorta) Got Profitable With Verizon FIOS

Verizon FIOS has a rewards program where customers can earn free stuff like Starbucks and Visa gift cards. While this is not a reason to go out and sign up with Verizon or switch companies, it's definitely a reason to log into your account once a month and spend a minute looking around after paying your bill.

The Verizon My Rewards+ program is similar to the above programs in that it is a points for rewards venture. Sample activities include checking out a Verizon product demo, completing your profile, liking them on social media, enrolling in auto pay, and so on. Of course, the big point earning opportunities come if you do things like add or upgrade services (never gonna happen!).

Each month when your bill arrives, there's a reminder to check out the rewards program. Take a moment and log on. It's an easy way to earn a free gift card or two this year. To be fair, I'm not sure a couple of free gift cards a year is a fair trade given the cost of cable (from any provider!). But hey, at least with Verizon FIOS, I get to enjoy a free Starbucks latte while watching my favorite shows.

So, there you have it. Four programs where you can earn free stuff just for doing what you already do. If you're already a consumer of these products, earning free gift cards and other rewards is easy to do.

Do you participate in any of these or similar programs? Let me know in the comments below.

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This article is from Kim Owens of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

The 5 Best Indoor TV Antennas

Janae Spinato — Thu, 26 Mar 2015 21:00:11 +0000

Not everyone needs a premium satellite HD package with thousands of channels to get the most out of their TV watching experience. The most popular shows on television tend to be on the basic cable channels and sometimes even that is too much for people. Whether TV is less of a passion and more your background noise of choice, or if it's just not in your budget to constantly pay for 50+ channels that you don't even watch, having a good indoor TV antenna is the best way to get the most out of your TV watching without breaking the bank with a monthly payment.

What is an Indoor TV Antenna?

Unlike their outdoor counterparts, indoor TV antennas don't sit on the roof to get signals. Rather, they sit atop the TV (or any other high area) and do the same work of catching airwaves to bring basic primetime networks to the television screen without a cable subscription.

When saying "indoor TV antenna," many people probably think of the old "rabbit ears" design that looks like two metal sticks coming out of a base to catch signals, but modern day antennas don't necessarily look like that. They come in more compact, convenient options now, looking like flat boxes that can rest on flat surfaces up high to get the best possible signal. Antennas can receive UHF (ultra high frequency) or VHF (very high frequency) signals, and it's usually best to get one that receives both, but depending on your area you might be able to get by with an antenna that only handles one type.

One of the most important things to remember when buying an antenna like the ones in this article is that performance of any product will depend on your individual location. Some people are closer to transmitters than others, and some people might have certain things blocking signal coming from a certain direction that others don't have. It's a good idea to do research on antennas that have worked well in your area before finalizing your purchase.

Top 5 Indoor TV Antennas

Mohu Leaf Antenna

The Mohu Leaf, one of the best rated TV antennas on Consumer Search, is a super convenient model capable of picking up both UHF and VHF signals, though specializing in the former. If the signal is not strong enough, there is an amplified version of the product but be sure to check the quality of the regular version before you go upgrading, as the amplified signal could actually make reception worse for those in areas that don't need the extra power. This antenna is incredibly thin which helps it blend into the background easily and is black on one side and white on the other, giving you multiple options to match the style of the room.

Moreso than many other indoor antenna options, the Mohu Leaf is not terribly dependent on its position in the room to get good signal because of its omnidirectional capabilities. While there is no question about the quality signal the Mohu Leaf provides, some customers have questioned whether this slightly pricier option is the only way to get such consistent results when other models seem to perform just as well. Still, the extra money is worth the promised effectiveness of this product.

Currently $39.95 on Amazon

Terk HDTVa Antenna

The Terk HDTVa is a great option for anyone that needs an antenna that gets plenty of distance. Another Consumer Search favorite, this antenna can be used from up to 45 miles from transmitters and is recommended for those who live farther away rather than those who live close to them. UHF and VHF signals can be picked up by the Terk HDTVa as long as it is facing in the correct direction.

Reviews claim this antenna is very particular about the way it's facing, meaning if your signals come from different directions, you will have to move this product to the direction you need, but the quality displayed is worth the extra effort. This is the amplified version of this product, so if you still need a directional antenna but have strong signal in your area, feel free to get the Terk HDTVi version of this product.

Currently $55.76 on Amazon

Winegard FlatWave FL-5000 Antenna

Like the Mohu Leaf, the Winegard FlateWave FL-5000 boasts the convenience of being flat as paper and performing like a gem. Also similar to the Leaf, this antenna is black on one side and white on the other, making it easier to blend it into the aesthetics of the room depending on your needs. Reviews have claimed the best place for this antenna is in the window, and its decal-esque design makes it blend right in as well as fit into whatever place you might need to get the best reception.

The Winegard FlatWave FL-5000 overall does not fall short performance-wise according to numerous reviews. In fact, this product has been compared to the Mohu Leaf as though they were twins, but with some minor differences that depending on the person might not be so minor. The biggest one is the power cable. Rather than a short white cable for the Mohu Leaf, which severely limits the placement options of the antenna or the TV, the Winegard FlatWave has a cable more than double the length at 15ft adding a new level of convenience to the experience of anyone trying to find that signal sweet spot.

The one complaint people seem to have about this brand is that this extremely useful longer cable is black, making it a little harder on the eyes in a white room unlike the Mofu Leaf, whose cable is white. Depending on your needs and aesthetic pleasures, the Winegard FlatWave FL-5000 might be the perfect iteration of super-thin indoor TV antennas for you.

Currently $34.30 on Amazon

RCA Basic Indoor Antenna

The least expensive option on this list is anything but lacking in quality. The RCA Basic Indoor Antenna comes with VHF and UHF reading capabilities thanks to the dipoles and UHF loop. The dipoles are extendable up to 3 ft, giving you a wider range of space to look for signals. Along with the VHF and UHF signals, the RCA Basic Indoor Antenna also picks up FM signals.

Though this model is bulkier than most on this list, it can still comfortably sit atop or behind a tv, or on a small stand nearby depending where the best positioning is without destroying the flow of your room. It has a 4' cord attached to plug into the TV, giving you a little more leeway with distance and placement. With its low price and undeniable reliability in delivering excellent reception, many users have considered the RCA Basic Indoor Antenna the perfect model to satisfy their TV needs.

Currently $7.49 on Amazon

Mohu Curve 30 Designer HDTV Antenna

If you are not a fan of sticking something in your window, on your wall, or having something that looks like a traditional antenna, but still want great TV signal, then the Mohu Curve 30 Designer HDTV Antenna might be the right option for you. True to its name, the curve is a flat surface that can be shaped to stand and blend right into your room. If you decide you don't like it in the standing position, you can also lie it flat or stick it in your window; this is a model with many aesthetic options.

The Mohu Curve 30 receives both UHF and DHF channels from up to 30 miles away in full 1080p, just like other members of this list, making it a top contender for performance as well as attractiveness. A 10' coax cord means there is plenty of wiggle room for placement, though it shouldn't have to move to much considering it is another omnidirectional model. Just keep in mind that the Mohu Curve 30 Designer HDTV Antenna will only work with TVs that have a digital tuner (built in or set-top). Still, this model is perfect for those craving excellent service with visual variety.

Currently $49.99 on Amazon

And those are our recommendations for the best indoor TV antennas. As always, be sure to check out the Wise Bread Buying Calendar to learn when and how to buy just about anything!

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This article is from Janae Spinato of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

15 Little Ways to Make Yourself a Better Person While Watching TV Tonight

Kentin Waits — Tue, 23 Sep 2014 09:00:07 +0000

In the middle of channel surfing, fighting over the remote, or rolling your eyes at the latest unreal reality show premise, is it possible to become a better person? Maybe so. (See also: 25 Fun, Frugal Things to Do Tonight Besides Watch TV)

If you'd like to flex your multitasking muscles and turn TV time into personal development time, here are 15 ways to get started tonight.

1. Pen a Personal Thank-You

Ahh… the lost art of the hand-written thank-you note — let's revive it tonight. Surely you have someone to thank for something. Take five minutes and 49 cents to show how much you appreciate a kind act or thoughtful gesture. Or, explore other ways to creatively say thanks.

2. Walk

Watching TV doesn't have to be a sedentary act. If you're feeling a little lethargic (like you and the couch are dangerously close to melding into a single cushiony entity), get up and move. Walk in place or position the treadmill so you don't miss a single crying jag on The Biggest Loser. Then, walk at a comfortable pace; don't worry about breaking a sweat. When you're done, you've recharged your batteries a little and burned a few calories.

3. Stretch

Besides promoting relaxation, simple yoga stretches can improve posture and circulation. It's easy to combine slow stretching with TV watching without missing a plot twist. Who knows, you may enjoy it so much that you find other ways to fit stretching into your day.

4. Remember a Birthday

Use a commercial break (and let's face it, there are quite a few) to pull up the calendar on your smartphone. Are there any birthdays on the horizon that you should take note of? Make someone smile by remembering their special day this year.

5. Give Yourself a Mud-Mask Facial

Why not turn TV time into spa time? Before you settle in to watch your favorite program, take a long warm shower and apply a pore-cleansing mud mask. Then just relax and revel in the self-indulgent moment. Or, explore other ways to make your home feel like a spa.

6. Fuss Over Fido

Okay, this might not make you a better person, but it will make your dog or cat love you just a little bit more (if that's possible). Get grooming — and while you're at it, throw in some play time, some belly rubs, and a treat or two.

7. Plan an Event With Your Kids, Parents, or Partner

Since everyone congregates around the TV anyway, take advantage of the togetherness. Coordinate a weekend getaway, a family vacation, or an on-the-cheap staycation. You may even get so caught up in the planning that you forget all about Keeping Up With the Kardashians.

8. Flirt

Love still makes the world go 'round. Making time for our partners is a great way to acknowledge what's most important in our lives. Sure, watching TV may not be the sexiest pursuit, but it can still be playful. Surprise your significant other with some innocent (or not-so-innocent) flirting and see if you make it to the end of Conan O'Brien.

9. Take a News Diet

Sometimes no news really is good news. While it's important to stay informed, consuming a constant stream of bad news can be anxiety-producing and leave us feeling powerless. If the state of the world is getting you down, limit your news exposure. Instead, immerse yourself in an uplifting story, absurd comedy, or interesting educational program.

10. Be Thankful

Another commercial break? Okay, this time think of three or four significant things you're thankful for. If you're alone, say them out loud to yourself. If you're with friends or family, do a quick round-robin and have everyone share. The point is to interrupt a relatively mindless act with a mindful one and take a moment to appreciate our good fortune.

11. Repeat the Mantra, "Little Things Enlarge Others"

In our busy lives, it's easy to lose focus on the people around us. Reserve a bit of TV time to consider the mantra, "Little things enlarge others." In other words, what little things could you do tomorrow to make others feel a bit bigger? Offering a sincere compliment to a spouse, bringing a warm muffin to an over-worked colleague, or paying it forward in the coffee shop are all small but wonderful ways to get started.

12. Restyle Your Smile

Research the best teeth whiteners and start improving your smile and your confidence immediately. Since you'll be lounging and not engaged in heavy conversation, apply strips or other teeth whitening treatments while you watch TV. And when it's time for a snack break, don't jeopardize your efforts. Choose foods that help whiten teeth.

13. Donate a Buck or Two

Worthy charities need donations of time and money to survive. If your schedule is tight, use TV time to make an online contribution or send in check to a cause that's near and dear to your heart. Want to help, but not sure where to start? Visit Charity Navigator to research charities by category and review rankings of their financial health, accountability, and transparency.

14. Get Wordy

With so much technology at our fingertips, this one is easy. Vocabulary-building app Vocabology delivers a word of the day — even in different languages — and includes an audible pronunciation feature. Or, expand your linguistic horizons the old-fashioned way by thumbing through the dictionary. Pull out a word you don't know and use commercial breaks to spell it, learn it, and use it in a sentence.

15. Message a Memory

Our minds are filled with volumes of wonderful memories that usually include dear friends and family. Why not take five minutes and relive a favorite memory via a text message to the cast of characters involved? It's sure to put a smile on the faces of college friends, parents and grandparents, and siblings alike.

There you have it — 15 ways to blossom while watching Blossom, 15 ways to improve yourself while watching TV (even if you're not a Jeopardy! fan). So, the next time you kick back for a little tube time, ask yourself, what else could I be doing?

Do you pursue other activities while watching TV? How has TV time made you a better person?

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This article is from Kentin Waits of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

25 Fun, Frugal Things to Do Tonight Besides Watch TV

Kentin Waits — Wed, 13 Aug 2014 15:00:20 +0000

Unless you're watching the home shopping network with a rapid eye for deals, spending night after night in front of the TV ain't saving you any money in a proactive way. So maybe it's time for a little idea inspiration.

Here are 25 frugal things you can do instead of watching TV tonight.

1. Go Thrift Shopping

Who needs more reasons to love thrift shopping? Thrifting can be a real money saver and wildly entertaining. Some shops stay open till 9:00 p.m., so make thrifting part of your prime time lineup.

2. Update Your Resume and LinkedIn Profile

Even if you're secure in your job, be prepared for opportunities that come your way by having an updated resume at-the-ready. LinkedIn is how you present your professional image publically, so take a few minutes to make sure it's top-notch.

3. Set Some Savings Goals

Solo or with your significant other, sit down and decide exactly what you're saving for. What specific financial goals would you like to achieve in the next year? In the next five? By setting the right goals, saving isn't just easier — it's a lot more fun.

4. Mend Some Clothing

Channel your inner Olivia Walton and tighten up loose shirt buttons, repair split seams, or darn a pair of socks. It takes only moments and saves buying new.

5. Review Your 401(k) or IRA Fund Performances

Take some time to review those prospectuses and quarterly statements from your 401(k) or IRA fund administrator. Are you satisfied with the results, or is it time to see if you can achieve better results? If you're nearing retirement, is the moment right to shift to more conservative funds?

6. Plan Your Holiday Shopping List

Avoid maddening crowds and purchase-panic by getting a head start on holiday shopping. Determine what you'll need and leisurely start looking for deals on gifts, supplies, and essentials now.

7. Make Tomorrow's Lunch

Save money, eat healthier, and keep your mornings sane by pre-making tomorrow's lunches for work and school.

8. Clean Your Coffeemaker

I treat my automatic coffeemaker with the respect it deserves, because if it goes on the fritz, I go on the fritz. Extend the life of your true blue brewer by cleaning it regularly with distilled white vinegar and water.

9. Organize Your Finances

Drowning in a sea of receipts, bank statements, and miscellaneous documents? Resolve to organize your financial paperwork by creating a simple system that you can easily follow.

10. Flip Your Mattress

Save money on a new mattress by extending the life of the one you have. Rotate and then flip your mattress every three or four months; rotate the box spring or foundation every six.

11. Perform Quick and Easy Auto Maintenance

Checking tire pressure and fluid levels regularly is a relatively painless way to keep your car running smooth. To keep it gleaming, skip the TV and give your ride a quick wash and wax.

12. Do a Digital Deep Clean

Defragment Windows, update your computer's anti-virus software, and delete old files that take up large amounts of space. While you're at it, clean the keyboard, screen, and exterior with the appropriate products to keep things working well and looking good.

13. Play a Board Game

Go retro by grabbing a game that doesn't have an LCD display. Monopoly, Scrabble, Trivial Pursuit, and Cranium all have their own lessons to teach and are refreshingly low tech. Or, skip buying a game by playing charades.

14. Make a DIY Scarf Organizer

Ladies, does your scarf collection look like a psychedelic nest of confusion? Take some time one night this week and make a DIY scarf organizer using a plastic clothes hanger, plastic shower curtain rings, and decorative ribbon. It's simple and it works!

15. Send a Handwritten Note

Resurrect the art of the hand-written note and make someone's day. Nothing says "I'm thinking of you" like putting pen to paper "just because."

16. Plant a Window Sill Herb Garden

If you don't have the yard space for a full-fledged vegetable garden, plant a mini herb garden on your window sill. Fresh and free herbs taste better.

17. Replace the AC Filter

Air conditioner maintenance helps your central air system or window unit work better and use less energy. Clean or replace filters periodically and keep condenser coils dust-free.

18. Clean One Drawer or Closet

Cutting clutter is a marathon, not a sprint. Start slowly and accomplish one modest goal per evening or per week. Clean a drawer, closet, tote, or kitchen cabinet.

19. Take a Nap

That's right, get some shut-eye. There are few less expensive and more restorative things you can do to take care of yourself.

20. Go for a Walk

Walking outside is relaxing, social, healthy… and exactly what your loyal dog is waiting for. Flip off the TV, grab the whole family, and hit the bricks.

21. Pre-Cut Some Veggies

Convenience wins. Encourage wild and unregulated veggie consumption by pre-cutting them and storing in air-tight containers. Chop lettuce for salads, slice cucumbers, and peel carrots to promote free-range grazing in your household.

22. Clean and Organize Your Wallet or Purse

Does your purse feel like a lead weight? Is your wallet more of an in-pocket filing cabinet? Clean both and save money by actually finding some among the chaos.

23. Prepare a Back-to-School List

Keep your ear to the ground. The collective groan of millions of kids will be echoing across the land in just a few shorts weeks. Set down with your little learners, figure out what they'll need, and scout for back-to-school bargains now.

24. Recondition your Shoes

A little mink oil, polish, and buffing goes a long way in extending the life your favorite kicks. It just takes a few minutes per pair and you'll feel much more dapper.

25. Clutter-Bust with the Kids

Get the kids involved in de-cluttering. Have them choose a certain number of toys or clothes they no longer use or want. Teach them the lesson of giving to the less fortunate and control toy clutter at the same time!

There are countless others things to do instead of staring at the TV (…assuming you haven't eroded your ability to count by too many hours spent staring at the TV!). Brainstorm your own list tonight by imagining the frugal and productive fun you could have if your TV suddenly bit the dust. Then, hit it with a hammer (just kidding) and start doing!

What do you like to do instead of watching TV? Share your ideas with our readers in comments!

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This article is from Kentin Waits of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Are TV's Extreme Cheapskates Going Too Far?

Paul Michael — Mon, 20 Jan 2014 11:36:12 +0000

There's a new show on TV causing quite a lot of buzz amongst frugally minded people like myself. It's called "Extreme Cheapskates," and just like a similar show called "Extreme Couponing," it tells the stories of people who go above and beyond to save money. (See also: Crazy Frugality Schemes That Just Might Work)

Now, I have done a few things in my time that crossed the line from frugal to cheap. I'm sure many of you have, at some point, done the same. But the people featured in this show don't just cross that line; they race over it into the realms of downright insanity. The question is, which of these money-saving methods do you think go too far, and which could you see yourself doing? In other words, which of these are "too extreme" and which are "frugally fine?"

1. Doing Your Laundry While You Shower

Several people featured on the show seem to think this is a perfectly acceptable way to save money. Some will wash the clothes as they wear them in the shower, others will use the leftover shower water. And they do it using free samples of laundry detergent or good old-fashioned soap.

Verdict: Too Extreme!

While it's fair to save water from your shower for other uses (watering plants perhaps), or sharing a shower with your partner, doing laundry with your dirty shower water is just nasty.

2. Getting Food From Dumpsters

Would you eat a meal that was made with food from a dumpster? Well, quite a few of the extreme cheapskates get their food from the dumpsters outside of grocery stores and high-end delis. Some of the food, including fruit and vegetables, is perfectly fine to eat; it may not be beautifully cosmetic though. Other food has gone past its sell-by-date, either by a day or by much longer. (See also: Dumpster Diving 101)

Verdict: Frugally Fine

Dumpster diving for food is not new, and it's not gross if it's done right. Expiration dates are guidelines, but grocery stores will dump on, or just before, a sell-by-date. There are many ways to be "freegan," and it's a great way to save money and stop good food going to waste. (See also: Quick Guide to Expiration Dates and Food Safety)

3. Taking Leftovers From Other Diners' Plates

Perhaps one of the most bizarre money-saving tips came from a guy called Roy, one of the biggest cheapskates I've ever seen. This is a man who reuses paper towels and tea bags, many times, and gets all of his ketchup free from fast food establishments. But he takes it to another level when, after finishing his meal at a restaurant, he walks around asking people for their leftovers, and scraping it into take-out containers.

Verdict: Too Extreme!

Look, it's not great to waste food; we all know that. But this is one of those times when you have to consider how far is too far. You may not feel bad asking for leftovers, but the people with you, and the diners in the restaurant, do not expect this kind of behavior when dining out. It's one thing to give leftovers away, perhaps to someone homeless. It's something else entirely to petition the diners as they're chewing on their last bite. And let's not get into the hygiene issues. Yikes.

4. One Family: The Same Bath Water for All

Imagine standing in line to take a bath, and when you get to the front you find out it's the same bath water for everyone. That's the bizarre twist in one cheapskate's tale. Her whole family takes a bath every day, each taking turns with the bathwater; yes, the same bath water. If you think "it'll be cold after a while," then don't worry. They don't ever use hot water. (See also: How to Shower Less and Still Feel Clean)

Verdict: Too Extreme

Is this one even up for debate? Sure, if you're first into the bath you get clean water. Go second, it's going to be dirty. By the time you're the poor kid at the end of the line, you're bathing in the dirt and scum from a whole family! This is not hygienic, it's not good for a young boy's self esteem, and it's just way beyond the realms of normalcy. The water is the color of a cappuccino by the time the last kid gets out! This family also sleeps together in one bed, and never uses their electricity. This is not even cheap; we need a new word.

5. Peeing in Jars to Avoid Flushing

The strangest part of this story wasn't the act of peeing in the jar, or pouring it onto the garden to help it grow. No, the weird part is that this was done by a millionaire to save $2 per month in "wasteful" flushing.

Verdict: Too Extreme!

If it were saving a lot more money, I could see this being something worth trying. But for $2 a month, peeing into jars and storing them by the side of the toilet is just plain insanity! And forcing your boyfriend to do it too? That's even worse.

6. Using a Bicycle to Go Everywhere

A chap called Jeff Yeager, author of a bestselling cheapskate's book, takes his bicycle everywhere he goes. He's not an overweight man, as you probably guessed, and says he has saved over $50,000 by using a bike instead of having a car or taking public transportation. (See also: How to Become a Part-Time Bicycle Commuter)

Verdict: Frugally Fine

This is not a cheapskate thing to do at all; it has so many benefits to yourself and the environment. Jeff is staying in great shape, reducing his carbon footprint, and saving a ton of money. This is a no-brainer. Good on you, Jeff.

7. Getting Vitamins and Medicines From the Garbage

A pregnant and exceptionally cheap young lady did not want to pay for vitamins and medicines during her pregnancy. So, armed with a litter picker, she goes diving through dumpsters and garbage shaking everything until she hears the rattle of a pill bottle. Then, whether it's expired or not, she takes them home and stocks her medicine cabinet.

Verdict: Way Too Extreme!

This is bonkers. Sure, some vitamins will be OK to take after they expire, but old medicines can be dangerous, and have unpredictable side effects. There's also a reason every vitamin and medicine you buy comes sealed with tamper-proof packaging. This is your health; you cannot risk this kind of behavior. (See also: How to Get Free Medication)

8. Reusable Toilet Paper

You know, as a frugal man with 39 years under my belt, I thought I'd seen it all. Then, I saw something stomach-churningly bizarre. A family that refuses to buy toilet paper uses scraps of fabric from old clothing. Mom takes these squares and places them in a pile in the bathroom. You take a square, wipe, and put this dirty square into an open trash can in the bathroom. When the trashcan is full, you put it in the laundry.

Verdict: Borderline Extreme

I have used washable diapers on my kids. The diapers are washed several times, and until laundry day they are stored in a sealed bag. If it's acceptable for a baby, it's certainly acceptable for adults. However, I question the storage methods, and also forcing this upon houseguests. Would you wipe your butt with something that's stained, and has clearly wiped someone else's butt before? Me neither.

9. Refusing to Spend More Than 99 Cents Per Pound on Meat

Our cyclist Jeff is just as thrifty in the kitchen. In several instances, he goes shopping for meat and fish and usually ends up with the kind of cuts most of us would throw away…or throw up! He's made fish head soup and cooked goat's heads for dinner. He's quite fond of the eyes.

Verdict: Frugally Fine

If you have the stomach for it. Personally, I just couldn't eat a goat's eyeball, although I have it on good authority that cheek meat is very delicious. Fish head soup, I could easily eat that; it's more about flavor anyway. But be respectful of guests. Inviting them over for a chunk of goat head may not serve you well.

10. Eating Rice Thrown at Wedding Ceremonies

If you need to read that one again, go ahead. It's real, and it's bizarre. Our friend Roy (the plate scraper from #3) has been known to collect handfuls of rice that have been thrown at weddings. He'll scrape this up from the ground, pocket it, and use it in a meal later.

Verdict: Too Extreme to the Max!

Seriously, it's not only unhygienic, it smacks of bad taste and would take hours to collect enough to make one plate of rice. Considering you can buy a whole bag for a buck, this is a waste of time and not worth the effort. Yuck.

That's my top ten list. Did you see something even worse when watching the show? Does your opinion of these extreme money-saving ideas differ from mine. Chime in below.

This article is from Paul Michael of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

8 Personal Finance Lessons From "Parks and Recreation"

Tim Lemke — Mon, 20 Jan 2014 10:48:12 +0000

The NBC show "Parks and Recreation" is dense with commentary on the dysfunction and gridlock of government. But the show also has much to offer for those seeking lessons in how to manage money. (See also: Financial Lessons From "Breaking Bad")

From Ron Swanson's fascination with breakfast to Tom Haverford's high-end clothing rental business, characters in the show are usually involved in some shenanigans that — usually unintentionally — offer a small lesson in personal finance.

Here are eight lessons from the show.

1. Protect Your Identity

The gruff but sensible Ron Swanson is notably untrusting of anyone who dares to request so much as his birthday. His maniacal devotion to privacy is a bit over the top, but it's no more crazy than sharing every detail about yourself without concern for the consequences. This is especially true when it comes to things like social security numbers and numbers tied to bank accounts and credit cards.

Identity theft is a real problem, impacting 16.6 million people in 2012, and causing $24.7 billion in financial losses, according to the Bureau of Justice Statistics.

Be careful about distributing any financial information unless you trust the person (or persons) receiving it. Use passwords that are hard to guess, and change them frequently. You don't have to live off the grid like Ron, but you should be smart. (See also: How to Pick a Better Password)

2. Invest in Gold

Ron Swanson once noted that his entire life savings is comprised of gold bullion buried in various locations around Pawnee. We must first acknowledge that Ron probably has lost a lot of money in the investment in the last year. But long term, gold has proven to be a solid investment worthy of inclusion in most portfolios. Most experts say it's a nice hedge against inflation. Shares of the SPDR Gold Trust, a popular vehicle that allows individuals to easily invest in gold, have risen 8% in the last five years, and did not crash along with the market in 2008.

3. Write a Will

In a recent episode, accountant Ben Wyatt and Ron Swanson argued over the importance of estate planning. Ron's wish was that all of his considerable assets be left to "the man or animal who has killed me." Ben convinced him that it's better to write a formal will ensuring the money be left to his wife and stepchildren. Ron agrees to follow Ben's advice after learning that without proper planning, the government could take a big cut of his money from inheritance taxes.

Writing a will can ensure that your assets will be passed on to those you care about most, and you can also outline other desires including guardians for your children. And it's best to complete this planning while you're young and of sound mind. (See also: Tech Tools for Planning Your Own Death)

4. Make Stuff

Yes, Ron Swanson again. We'd be remiss if we did not point out his skill in being able to craft things by hand. He's made everything from baby cribs to canoes to engagement rings on his own, likely saving considerable money in the process. This philosophy works for everything from cooking to landscaping to doing your own car and home repairs, too. (And, FYI, Nick Offerman, the actor who plays Ron Swanson, is an accomplished woodworker in real life. Offerman's woodshop is nothing short of awesome.) (See also: Home DIY Projects You Can Do in a Day)

5. You Can Always Afford Love

The lovable buffoon Andy Dwyer found himself dismayed when he realized that impressing new girlfriend April Ludgate would be hard without some cash. "I kinda forgot that you need money when you have a girlfriend," he said. "I want to treat April like a queen. And queens deserve… flowers and massages. Chocolate. Booze. Diamonds, rubies, emeralds. Some treasure chest full of scarves."

But as we learn, April loves Andy regardless of whether he can afford to buy her things, and they don't seem to mind being blissfully broke. (See also: Frugal and Romantic Dates at Home)

6. Borrow Instead of Buy

Tom Haverford is the resident entrepreneur, launching everything from an entertainment business to a line of cologne. But his most successful venture was born when he realized that parents were not keen on spending lots of money on designer clothes for kids who would quickly outgrow them. So he started "Rent-A-Swag," which allowed kids to borrow fashionable clothes and likely save their parents some money. (See also: Best Items to Borrow)

"Rent-A-Swag" may not exist in real life, but the concept can be applied to nearly any product that you'll either outgrow or won't use more than once or twice. Consider getting a Netflix subscription instead of buying DVDs. Think about going halfsies on that hedge trimmer with a neighbor.

7. Basic Is Best

When energetic city manager Chris Traeger entered into a hamburger cooking contest with Ron Swanson, he cooked up an elaborate sandwich made with tofu, tarragon, and papaya chutney on a brioche bun. It lost out to Ron's "meat, on a bun, with nothing."

When Chris went to order a top-of-the-line crib for his new baby, he learned that it was recalled due to safety concerns. (He ended up accepting Ron's handmade model.)

Ron Swanson said there are only three proper haircuts for men: high and tight, buzz cut, and crew cut. It's no coincidence that those hairstyles probably cost about $10 at your neighborhood barber.

Stick with what's simple and familiar, and you'll rarely be disappointed. And you'll probably save money in the long run.

8. Enjoy Breakfast

In "Parks and Recreation," characters have a slightly neurotic love of breakfast. During one meal, the waffle-loving Leslie Knope asks "Why would anyone ever eat anything other than breakfast foods?" Ron Swanson also says "I'm a simple man. I like pretty dark-haired women and breakfast foods."

It's commonly said that breakfast is supposed to be the most important meal of the day. But it's also arguably the most financially sensible meal. Breakfast foods are generally cheap and easy to prepare, and if you eat a good breakfast you'll probably be less likely to spend money on bigger meals later in the day. Not to mention, it can be fun and economical to have breakfast for dinner. As Ron says, "I'll take a breakfast buffet anytime, anyplace."

Any lessons from Parks and Recreation that we've missed? Please share in comments!

This article is from Tim Lemke of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

How to Get Netflix and Hulu to Play on Your TV

Carlos Portocarrero — Mon, 03 Jun 2013 10:24:36 +0000

"Cutting the cord" was something only doctors and new fathers used to do. But thanks to the explosion of online streaming content services like Hulu and Netflix, more and more people are saying sayonara to their cable bill.

As I learned when I tried to cut the cord myself, the big advantage to paying for cable doesn't have anything to do with paying less or accessing only the shows you want to watch. It's about convenience. With cable, you turn your TV on and all the shows you know and love are a button press away — right there on your big screen. (See also: 8 Alternatives to Cable TV That Will Keep You Entertained)

Once you move into the world of online streaming, people start to get a little worried. The question I've heard most often is: Will I have to watch on my computer screen? What do I need to watch on my TV? Is it going to be complicated?

And I'm here to tell you that no — when it comes to services like Hulu and Netfix, there are so many options that you'll inevitably find one that works with your current setup so you can enjoy your shows where they're meant to be seen: on your TV.

Start With the Official Sites

It might be overwhelming at first, but what you'll want to do first is check out the device lists for both Netflix and Hulu. There are a LOT of TVs, video game systems, and other devices listed that can help you play streaming content on your TV set. Odds are you'll find something you already own on the list. In fact, most people are already watching Netflix streaming content on their PS3s over their actual computers!

If you don't already own a Wii, XBox, Wi-Fi enabled TV or DVD player, or a streaming device like a Roku — then you'll have to buy one. Or, if worse comes to worst, you can always just hook up your laptop or PC to your TV via an HDMI cable and watch your shows that way.

Choose a Device

If you don't own any of the supported devices, then you'll have to make a decision on which one you want to buy.

But if you do want buy a device, first ask yourself if you'll be buying a new TV soon. Most of the new TVs are "smart," which means they'll automatically connect to your Wi-Fi network and be able to stream Netflix and Hulu, plus content from a lot of other services. That way you don't have to have another "thing" in your TV cabinet — the TV can do it automatically.

Luckily, Hulu and Netflix (and especially Netflix) have been at the forefront of this move to online streaming of content, so they've made sure they are compatible with as wide a range of devices as possible.

All you have to do now is login to your account via whichever device you've chosen and — voila! — you're ready to go!

Tweak Your Signal

All of this sounds easy enough, right? But there's one more thing you need to double check — how good your Internet connection is going to be wherever your TV and streaming device is in your place.

If you have a device that can connect to an actual hard line (an Ethernet cable), then by all means do that; it'll give you the fastest connection you can get.

If not, you'll need to rely on your Wi-Fi connection, which means the closer your Roku/Wii/TV is to your router, the better the connection will be. And the better your connection, the smoother your streaming experience is going to be.

For tips on improving your Wi-Fi connection, check out Lifehacker's Top 10 Wi-Fi Boosts, Tweaks, and Apps. Because let's face it...no one wants to watch a show with a big BUFFERING icon spinning away in the middle of a nail-biting scene.

Once you've got your device connected to your account and have it playing smoothly on your TV, sit back and enjoy watching TV in the post-Cable world!

Have you "cut the cord?" Was the switch to streaming Internet video easier — or more difficult — than you expected?

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This article is from Carlos Portocarrero of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Best Money Tips: Cheap Alternatives to Cable

Ashley Jacobs — Tue, 11 Dec 2012 10:48:37 +0000

Welcome to Wise Bread's Best Money Tips Roundup! Today we found some great articles on cheap alternatives to cable, tips to save money in the new year, and savings ideas for online shopping.