9 Unnecessary Bills You Should Stop Paying in 2024

Bills are the bane of many adults’ existence. Unfortunately, they’re a fact of life, but you could be overpaying each month.

Sometimes, we’re on autopilot that we don’t notice exactly what is coming out each month and where it’s going. But, if you sit down and look at your current expenses, I bet you’ll find a few that you could cut out.

If you’re not sure where to start, no worries, we got you. Remember to effectively cancel these services, don’t just stop paying. Some of them will impact your credit if you do.

1. Cable TV

Cable TV is so 1900s. Seriously. With the emergence of streaming services, there’s no need to pay an arm and a leg for cable television — and despite the significant amount of competition, cable still remains incredibly expensive for what little it offers.

Instead, find a few streaming services you like and sign up for those. Money-saving tip: if you really like a service, you can usually find discounted deals if you pay annually. That’s not to say you should have all streaming services.

2. Streaming Services

If you find that you’re paying for more than four or five streaming services, chances are you’re overpaying. Many offer the same shows or channels, unless you’re tuning into a specific niche such as sports or anime.

If there’s a series or movie you want to watch that’s only available on one network, see if they have a free trial available. Just remember to cancel, or you’ll end up with more subscriptions.

3. Gym Memberships

Getting and staying fit is essential to your health and longevity. However, if you have a gym membership that you’re paying for and not using, you could be hurting your financial health.

Today, there are so many ways to work out at home, whether it’s through free videos online, a customized exercise plan from a personal trainer, or streaming services that usually cost much less than a typical membership. If you have a membership card burning a hole in your pocket, cancel it.

4. Premium Internet

Years ago, when the internet first became universally available, it was through dial-up. Over the years, it has advanced significantly. Now, when you sign up for internet service, you have a variety of speed options, each more expensive than the last.

The reality is unless you have multiple devices running at the same time, you won’t use the premium bandwidth. To save a few bucks a month, cut back to one of the lower levels. Chances are, you won’t notice much of a difference.

5. Landline Phones

It’s time to cut the cord. If you have a cell phone, there’s almost no need to have a landline, unless you’re running a business and want an additional line that’s not your personal mobile.

Many people sign up for a landline for cost savings on their cable and internet bills, but in today’s era, it’s simply not needed.

6. Food Delivery

Food delivery services are very convenient. They can also be expensive. You’re likely to save money by clipping coupons — which you can do digitally now — and shopping the weekly ad for deals than you are using one of several services.

If you are reluctant to give up your food delivery service, consider cutting back the frequency to one or two days’ worth of meals, instead of a full week’s.

7. Unneeded Insurance Policies

Insurance agents like to push every policy under the sun on their clients. Some of them, like homeowner’s, renter’s, and car insurance, are mandated and necessary. However, there could be some inflated fees.

Check your existing policies and make sure that everything you’re paying for is necessary. You may find that some, like comprehensive coverage on an older vehicle, isn’t necessary.

8. Costly Cell Phone Plans

One of the most common services people overpay for is their monthly cell phone bill. In the beginning, providers are more than happy to offer discounts and perks to get you to switch, but it seems they’re less concerned with keeping loyal subscribers.

There are many cheap lines out there, such as through Mint, which runs on T-Mobile’s network, and myPlan, by Verizon. You can bring your own device and the plans come at a steep discount. I was paying $240 per month through T-Mobile for two lines, and when I switched to Mint, it dropped to $60.

9. Data Storage

Many people pay for data storage on their computers, whether it’s through Google or DropBox. Though it’s inexpensive, it’s still money going out the door.

Check through the contents of your online storage and I’m sure you’ll find plenty of stuff that you can get rid of, thus reducing your storage needs, and likely, the need to pay for it.

What Are Some Other Ways To Reduce Monthly Expenses?

If you find yourself in a financial crunch, or simply want a way to cut your monthly expenses, there are several ways you can do so.

First, consider your utility usage. Your heat and cooling systems, for example, tend to work overtime in the winter and summer seasons, respectively. Cut back on both by decreasing or increasing the temperature by a few degrees.

Cut back on professional services if it’s something you can do yourself. Landscaping is a good place to start, if you have a sizable lawn that you can maintain yourself. Consider if a service is essential or not, and if it’s not, get rid of it.