It’s possible to add $500 or $1,000 to your savings with a simple action. Clark.com suggests using store receipts to save for the future. Many retailers display a “You Saved” amount on a receipt for items on sale and store discounts. By putting this amount in a savings account you can avoid spending the “saved” money on other items.

Collecting receipts in an envelope or box, or scanning them to an app, can also help analyze buying habits to make wiser purchases in the future and not make as many trips to the store. This action can result in an extra amount each month added to your savings. This money can be added to your emergency fund or retirement account.

For additional information on the receipt savings trick, click here.

Teaching Suggestions

• Have students locate examples of receipts that show “amount saved.”
• Have students talk to others to obtain ideas for methods for building a person’s savings account.

Discussion Questions 

1. What do you believe are the benefits and drawbacks of using this system?
2. Describe other actions that might be taken to motivate you and others to build your savings?