In today’s world of streaming services, fitness apps, meal kits, and subscription boxes, it’s easier than ever to sign up for things we think we need. But let’s be real: how many of those subscriptions are you actually using? You might have subscribed to that meditation app after a New Year’s resolution or to a snack box that sounded amazing at 2 am. But those monthly charges can really sneak up on you.
If you’ve found yourself juggling way too many subscriptions and your bank account is starting to feel the squeeze, it’s time to do something. Here’s a plan of attack to get those subscriptions under control.
1. The great subscription roundup
First things first: you need to know exactly what you’re paying for. The easiest way to do it is by conducting a subscription audit. Sure, it sounds a little boring, but think of it as a treasure hunt for hidden charges that you can turn into extra cash.
How to round them up:
- Check your bank and credit card statements: Go through the last few months of your statements and look for recurring charges. These could be small amounts you’ve forgotten about, like $5 for a music streaming service or $12 for a meal kit subscription.
- Search your email: Subscriptions often come with email receipts or renewal notices. Search for terms like “subscription,” “membership,” “renewal,” or even “trial” in your inbox to find services you might have signed up for.
- Use an app that shows you your spending by category, like Brigit.
Brigit tip: Set aside half an hour to gather all your subscriptions in one place. You might be surprised at how many sneaky services you’re paying for!
2. Decide which subscriptions to keep
Once you have a list of all your subscriptions, it’s time to figure out which ones are actually worth it. Be ruthless—just because something is cheap doesn’t mean you need it hanging around, slowly draining your wallet.
Ask yourself these questions:
- Do I use it regularly? If you can’t remember the last time you used a service, it’s time to hit the cancel button.
- Is there a free alternative? Sometimes there are free (or cheaper) versions of what you’re already paying for. Maybe you don’t need three different streaming platforms or a premium app for something you can get for free elsewhere.
- Can I share it? Some subscriptions, like streaming services or grocery delivery memberships, offer family or multi-user plans. If you can share the cost with friends or family, you might not have to cancel it altogether.
- Is this still bringing me joy? Marie Kondo your subscriptions! If it doesn’t bring you joy (or provide value), toss it out.
Brigit tip: If you’re hesitant to cancel something because you might use it later, pause the subscription if that’s an option. Some services allow you to freeze your membership, so you’re not paying until you’re ready to use it again. (Or, you can usually cancel and then sign up again in a matter of seconds.)
3. Cancel like a pro
Once you’ve identified the subscriptions you don’t need, it’s time to actually cancel them. While some apps and services make canceling super easy, others can feel like breaking up with a clingy ex—annoying, but so worth it in the end.
How to cancel subscriptions:
- On the app or website: Most subscriptions can be canceled directly through the app or website. Look for “account settings,” “subscriptions,” or “billing” to find the option to cancel.
On your phone (for app subscriptions): If you signed up through the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, you can manage subscriptions right from your phone.