Powered by Auburn University Credit Union’s Student Solutions
You know that little treat-yourself moment – the coffee run, the random Amazon add-to-cart, the fifth food delivery of the week even though your fridge is full? We’ve all been there. These small, seemingly harmless purchases add up faster than you think – and that can be a serious drain on your budget.
The good news? A few small changes, paired with the right tools from Auburn University Credit Union’s Student Solutions, can help you keep more money in your account (without feeling like you're missing out).
The True Cost of Small Spending
Let’s break it down:
- One coffee a day at $5= $1,825/year
- Making coffee at home is about $1.35/day = $429/year
- Weekly takeout when you already have groceries? That can still total up to $1,759/year
- In 2023, Americans spent about $150/month on impulse purchases – that’s $1,800/year in spontaneous “adds to cart”
When you look at your spending this way, it’s clear: your everyday choices aren’t so small after all.
Smart Swaps That Make a Difference
- Delay Gratification: Before you hit “Buy Now,” ask: “How long have I really wanted this?” Waiting even 1–2 weeks helps you dodge microtrends and regret purchases.
- Budget for Fun: Instead of cutting out spending cold turkey, give yourself a “fun money” budget. That way, you spend intentionally – not impulsively.
- Automate Your Savings: If your account balance burns a hole in your wallet, try this: every time you skip a splurge (like $10 lunch), transfer that amount into your savings. Easy win.
- Treat Your Future Self: Saving now doesn’t mean sacrificing everything. It means giving future-you options – like graduating with less debt or affording that post-grad adventure.
Auburn University Credit Union Student Solutions: Tools to Help You Save
We’re not just here to tell you how to be smarter with your money — Student Solutions is built to help you actually do it.
- Student Checking & Savings: No monthly fees, smart budgeting tools, and easy account management – plus you can earn rewards for good grades and graduating.
- Credit Builder Loans: Start building your credit while you’re still in school (so you’re ready for real-world adulting).
- Financial Literacy Resources: Learn the stuff no one taught in high school – like how to budget, use credit wisely, and understand interest.
- College Graduation Bonus: Complete your degree? We’ll celebrate with a graduation deposit into your AUCU account.
- Grade School Honor Roll Rewards: Make A’s and Bs? That GPA could earn you a $10 bonus each semester.
Final Thought
Small purchases may feel harmless — but they stack up fast. The key to staying on track isn’t skipping every latte or turning down every takeout craving. It’s having a financial support system that helps you balance smart choices with student life.
That’s exactly what Student Solutions is here for.
Explore the full Student Solutions suite and take control of your money – one smart decision at a time.