Does ChatGPT have any hidden tricks up its proverbial sleeve to help save money — ideally $100 or more every month — as you shop?
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We consulted the AI tool for its top 10 shopping hacks to save $100 each month. Some of these advised approaches are tried and true smart shopping strategies while others are slightly more out of the box. Keep reading for the full list and our commentary on whether these strategies really work.
After, make sure to check out ChatGPT’s grocery hacks for retirees.
1. Use Cash-Back Apps
If you haven’t already downloaded popular cashback apps like Rakuten, Ibotta or Upside yet, consider this your sign to do it for earning cash back on purchases. Data aggregated by ChatGPT indicates consumers save as much as $50 every month when using these apps.
Does this hack work? Yep! Many budgeting experts we’ve spoken to recommend utilizing cash-back apps, especially during the holiday shopping season. Pro tip: Make sure you’re using apps where you can earn the biggest possible discounts at your preferred retailer, grocery store or gas station. If you’re shopping at Target, for example, you’d download Ibotta or the Coupons.com app to maximize cash-back savings.
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2. Try Amazon Subscribe & Save
Not familiar with Amazon Subscribe & Save? This is a program from the eCommerce platform where busy consumers can get everyday items such as cleaning products, groceries, pet food and more delivered to their doorstep on a recurring basis.
Does this hack work? Reaching the full $100 in savings may vary depending on your monthly bulk buying needs. Shoppers do save 15% on shipments of five or more items, but only if said items come in a single shipment to one address.
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3. Price Match Everything
ChatGPT’s next shopping hack is to compare prices on everything before you commit to making a purchase. Some of their recommended tools include Google Shopping or Honey.
Does this hack work? 100%. Not to humble brag, but your esteemed writer regularly compares prices for our retail articles to ensure the products recommended are indeed cheaper to buy at one storefront compared to another. While ChatGPT cites average savings of $20 to $40, price matching can save shoppers far more money depending on what you’re buying.
4. Buy Generic or In-Store Brands
One of the simplest ways to trim any grocery total is to buy generic brands. According to ChatGPT, opting in for generic may result in saving 20-50% per item.
Does this hack work? Yes. It’s pretty much rule No. 1 in the savvy shopper’s unwritten handbook on how to save money. Financial expert Dave Ramsey swears by shopping generic when it comes to paper products, trash bags, condiments and medication, just to name a few items. (Generic medication, it should be noted, is known to hold up as well as name brands — if not better.)
5. Shop With a List
Don’t go to the grocery store unless you have a clear list outlining what you need to buy and how you’ll plan to use it.
Does this hack work? Always. The combination of shopping with a list and meal planning each week can result in saving $30 to $60 every month, according to ChatGPT. Choosing not to shop with a list is expensive and chaotic. You’re more likely to leave the store without the key items you needed.
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6. Stack Coupons
Frugal shoppers often build their weekly meal plans around what’s on sale in a store circulator and will stack coupons and discounts accordingly for the best possible deals. Digging out coupons will be done through every possible medium, including signing up for e-newsletters and utilizing store apps.
Does this hack work? It does, although whether you’re able to save $100 every month will depend on your coupon aggregating savvy. Be prepared to use print coupons (especially those found on drugstore receipts) in addition to what you find online and/or store rewards.
7. Shop Off-Season
Need to buy Halloween candy? Do it after Halloween. What about winter apparel? Time these purchases for the spring months. ChatGPT’s recommendation for getting the steepest discounts on seasonal items is to do it during the off-season.
Does this hack work? We’re willing to bet there’s a 100% chance you’ve done this. Off-season shopping means cashing in on seriously good discounts (think 50% off or greater) post-holidays. For further reading, check out which items you should wait to buy after Valentine’s Day and Presidents Day.
8. Choose the Right Credit Card
Most shoppers use their credit cards when they shop, so it only makes sense to find and use a credit card that rewards you with points, miles and/or cash back.
Does this hack work? The amount of monthly savings varies depending on how much you spend with your credit card and its cash-back terms and conditions. But opting for a credit card that aligns with your purchases is a smart spending technique in the long run. You will use it, so it’s worth earning rewards as you go.
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9. Buy in Bulk
Substantial savings can be found at warehouse clubs like Sam’s Club and Costco. Using your membership to buy essentials in bulk keeps from having to make recurring trips to local supermarkets and ensures pantries and cabinets are well-stocked.
Does this hack work? It depends on your household size and what you’re buying. A single person may find it financially advantageous to stock up on toilet paper and balk at buying fresh produce if they’re unsure they’ll eat it up by the expiration date. When in doubt, stick to bulk non-perishables.
10. Unsubscribe From Store Emails
If you’re susceptible to clicking store emails advertising sales, it’s time to hit “Unsubscribe.” Doing so could save you up to $100 each month on impulse purchases, per ChatGPT.
Does this hack work? It does and it works to declutter your inbox.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 10 ChatGPT Shopping Hacks That Can Save You $100 Every Month
