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January 18.2026
3 Minutes Read

Unlock Smartphone Secrets: Effective Money Saving Tips for Seniors

Smartphone tips to save money concept with piggy banks.

Smartphones: The Hidden Money-Saving Tool

Your smartphone may just be the best financial advisor you never knew you had. With the right knowledge, it can help you save with little effort. Let's dive into realistic tips and tricks that can free up your budget without sacrificing your tech experience.

1. Find and Cancel Unused Subscriptions

Did you know that subscriptions can quietly drain your wallet? Many seniors are charged month after month for services they may have forgotten about. Your smartphone can help by allowing you to easily manage these subscriptions. On an iPhone, navigate to Settings > tap your Apple ID > Subscriptions. For Android users, go to the Google Play Store, tap your profile picture, and select Payments & subscriptions.

Besides using built-in tools, consider downloading apps like Trim or Rocket Money to track and manage all recurring expenses. A quick check can potentially save you tens or hundreds of dollars annually.

2. Set Price-Drop Alerts When Shopping

Smart shopping can revolutionize how you spend. If you’re not in a rush, set price-drop alerts on your smartphone. For example, Amazon Deal Notifications can notify you about Lightning Deals, discounts, and price drops. To enable, go to the Amazon app's Profile tab and adjust your Notifications settings.

Google Shopping offers similar features; when you search for a product, merely toggle on Track prices to receive alerts on price changes, which can save you a significant amount of money on purchases.

3. Use Wi-Fi Calling and Messaging Apps

A high cellular bill can be a burden. With Wi-Fi calling, you can make calls and send messages over Wi-Fi rather than using cellular data. This is particularly beneficial for avoiding roaming fees when traveling. Methods to enable Wi-Fi calling can be found under Settings on both iOS and Android devices.

Using popular apps such as WhatsApp or FaceTime for calls can further help you avoid hefty charges, transforming your smartphone into an economical communication device.

4. Shop for Better Cell Phone Plans

Those who think they’re stuck with overpriced phone plans may be surprised to find out that senior discounts exist. Major providers like AT&T and Verizon often have plans tailored for seniors, offering reduced rates. Reaching out and inquiring can lead to substantial savings.

Additionally, consider low-cost carriers such as Mint Mobile or Cricket Wireless. They often provide comparable services at a fraction of the usual cost, just be sure to check if they provide adequate coverage in your area.

5. Optimize Your Device for Savings

Smartphones are more than basic communication tools; they can be optimized to save you money. Starting with managing background data usage can keep your monthly bills lower. Many apps run continuously in the background. Check settings on your phone to limit these data-hogging apps.

Utilizing features to download offline maps can also assist you in avoiding data charges, particularly when navigation is necessary in low-signal places.

Conclusion: Make Your Smartphone Work for You

Pairing simple smartphone habits with the right resources can lead to considerable savings. From managing subscriptions to finding the best deals, your device holds the potential for a wealth of financial benefits. As our reliance on smartphones increases, it’s vital to learn how to best harness this technology to enhance our financial well-being.

Call to action: For more personalized financial insights and updates, be sure to subscribe to our newsletter.

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01.17.2026

Discover the Latest Trends in Senior Reading from Our Book Club Poll Results!

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01.16.2026

Discover How the US Black Heritage Project Connects Families to Their Ancestry

Update A Growing Resource for Family Heritage In recent years, the US Black Heritage Project has emerged as a vital platform for those seeking to reconnect with their roots. Set up by genetic genealogist Emma MacBeath in collaboration with dedicated volunteers, this initiative is working tirelessly to fill the genealogical void that historically marginalized Black families face. The project stands as a testament to the power of community and technology, aiming to document the experiences and histories of African American families dating back to enslaved ancestors. What Makes the US Black Heritage Project Unique? The project distinguishes itself from larger genealogy websites, such as Ancestry.com, by being entirely free and maintained by its users—focused specifically on African American histories. Co-project leader Denise Jarrett articulates the mission, stating, "we want to become the largest African American database in the world". Unlike traditional genealogy platforms that often prioritize a paywall, WikiTree creates an inclusive space where anyone can access rich histories without financial barriers. Overcoming Barriers in African American Genealogy The road to rediscovering African American lineages is often fraught with challenges due to systemic barriers—largely resulting from eras of slavery and poor record-keeping. MacBeath notes that while the abundance of documents related to enslaved persons is impressive, the project faces significant hurdles in processing all the available information. With only 125 active volunteers, the need for more hands on deck becomes clear if the initiative is to reach its full potential. Engaging the Community To combat the challenges of historical research, the project organizes multiple outreach activities aimed at educating families and genealogically-inclined individuals about the importance of documenting their histories. Regular Q&A sessions via Zoom allow participants to seek guidance and assistance in navigating the often convoluted world of genealogy. Such initiatives empower older adults to dive deeper into their family narratives and pass on legacies to future generations. The Journey of Reconnecting Through this project, countless stories of resilience and discovery have emerged. The act of naming enslaved ancestors—a practice MacBeath finds profoundly rewarding—represents healing for descendants who have long felt disconnected from their histories. These efforts bring not only personal satisfaction but also a broader sense of community, reintroducing families to their long-lost members. Looking Ahead: Opportunities for Growth The future of the US Black Heritage Project looks promising. With ongoing outreach and educational initiatives, the team anticipates a surge in community participation. Opportunities for collaborative projects and potential partnerships with educational institutions may enhance its capacity to process records and widen its reach. The willingness to embrace technology and community spirit makes this project a pioneering initiative for advancing African American genealogical research. Call to Action: Join the Movement The US Black Heritage Project is more than a genealogy initiative—it is a movement to reclaim history and restore the narratives often lost to time. If you’re interested in contributing to this important work, consider volunteering your time or sharing your own family's story. Together, we can forge stronger connections through our shared past. Conclusion As the project continues to evolve, the focus remains clear: providing access to African American genealogical resources fosters empowerment and strengthens familial ties. By making these histories accessible, the US Black Heritage Project not only enriches individual lives but constructs a more inclusive and comprehensive understanding of America's multifaceted narrative.

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California's Future at Stake: Michael Gates Pushes Tough-on-Crime Agenda

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