In today’s world, it can often feel like the cost of living is continually on the rise. While this may be true for many goods and services, it’s important to note that there are also numerous offerings that are now accessible to us at no cost, which previously required monetary expenditure.
If you’re seeking ways to maintain a healthier financial standing and retain more funds in your wallet, it’s worth exploring items, activities, and resources available to us for free. You might be pleasantly surprised to discover the array of options that were used to cost money or were once considered a luxury.
Here are 5 things you can get for free that used to cost money.
1. Credit report
In the past, individuals had to pay a fee to obtain their credit reports, which provided valuable insights into their financial history and creditworthiness. However, due to the enactment of federal laws, consumers now have the right to access their credit reports at no charge, at least once a year.
While it may not be the most exciting thing to get for free, the ability to obtain a free credit report carries significant practical value. Your credit report serves as a comprehensive record of your financial activities, including details on your credit accounts, payment history, outstanding debts, and any negative or positive marks.
It plays a crucial role in determining your credit score and can impact your ability to secure loans, obtain favorable interest rates, or even land a job or rent an apartment.
2. Educational courses
In recent years, the rising costs of college education have become a concern for many individuals. However, alongside this trend, the availability of free educational opportunities has also grown, providing access to knowledge and skills to a broader audience.
Community colleges and continuing education institutions are among the providers that offer free classes to community members. These classes serve as a valuable resource for personal and professional development. Whether you’re interested in exploring a new subject or acquiring practical skills, these institutions offer a range of courses to cater to diverse interests and goals.
Moreover, the advent of online learning platforms has further expanded the accessibility of free education. Platforms like Coursera, Udacity, and similar websites offer a vast array of courses and learning materials on a wide range of subjects.
3. Text messages
It’s difficult to fathom a time when text messaging was not an integral part of our phone plans, but the reality is that it hasn’t been too long since this service came with an extra cost.
In the past, cell phone companies used to impose charges on customers for each text message they sent or received, in addition to the regular monthly phone bill. These fees could quickly add up, especially for individuals who frequently engaged in text conversations.
However, with the evolution of communication technology and the increasing demand for text messaging, phone companies recognized the importance of including this service as a standard feature in their plans. As a result, most phone plans nowadays include unlimited text messaging as a fundamental component of the monthly package.
4. TV shows and streaming services
Streaming services have revolutionized the way we consume television shows and movies, becoming the go-to source for entertainment in today’s digital age. However, enjoying the extensive content libraries of popular platforms often comes with a price tag in the form of a monthly subscription fee.
Fortunately, for those who don’t mind a few commercial interruptions, there are options to access a plethora of shows and movies for free through individual channels or dedicated streaming apps. These platforms, such as Tubi and Crackle, provide an alternative to paid subscriptions by offering a wide range of content without the need for a monthly fee.
By opting to watch shows and movies on these free platforms, viewers can still enjoy an array of popular and classic titles spanning various genres. From hit TV series to acclaimed films, there is a diverse selection available, catering to different interests and preferences.
5. Daily magazine and news
In the past, staying informed and up-to-date with the news often required a financial investment. You had limited options: either pay for a newspaper subscription to have it conveniently delivered to your doorstep or purchase a copy from a newsstand.
However, with the rapid advancement of technology and the rise of the internet, accessing the news has become more accessible and diverse than ever before. Nowadays, there is an abundance of possibilities for staying informed, and many of them come at no cost.
One of the most notable transformations in news consumption is the proliferation of free news websites. These platforms offer a vast array of news articles, features, and analyses, covering a wide range of topics from politics and business to entertainment and lifestyle. Users can access these websites anytime and anywhere, making it easier than ever to stay updated on the latest developments without having to pay a subscription fee.
