Three smart ways to save some cash

(NC) There are many tips and tricks to help you keep more money in your pocket. Maybe you shop the sales, cook at home more often and make use of the local library. Here are a few more ways to make the most of your finances:

Take advantage of high-interest rates. This might not be your first idea when cash is tight, but current high-interest rates mean better-earning potential for your money. If you’ve been thinking of adding to your savings account or adjusting your investments, now is the time to do so to start catching up on powerful compounding interest. Start small, within your personal level of risk, and see where it takes you.

Consider adjusting your approach to debt. While paying off your debt in full is the goal, the interest that helps your savings account hurts your debts. Look at what you owe and pay off the ones with the highest rates first. But if your payments really aren’t fitting into your budget and you’re struggling to pay, consider refinancing your loans to consolidate your payments. It can take some of the stress off and help you save a bit on the interest.

Apply for benefits and credits. There are a number of government benefits and credits which can help offset the high cost of living. Two new ones include the Canada Dental Benefit, which provides up to $650 per year for the next two years for dental care for kids under 12 and the one-time top-up to the Canada Housing Benefit to give a boost to lower-income renters.

You can find out if you’re eligible and apply for these benefits at canada.ca/credits-benefits.