We all have subscriptions and memberships that make life easier, but they can add up quickly. One of the easiest ways to save money isn’t always canceling a membership—sometimes it’s finding a creative way to keep it while lowering the cost.
Take my local YMCA membership, for example.
A family membership costs us about $110 per month. One of the reasons I love it is because it includes up to two hours of free childcare per day, which can be a lifesaver for busy parents who need time to exercise, work remotely, or simply recharge.
In order to save on membership cost, many of my stay at home mom friends work at the YMCA for just a few hours each week. The position typically pays slightly above minimum wage, and you’re allowed to bring your child with you while you work (since its a gym daycare).
The best part? Employees receive a free YMCA membership.
While the employee benefit only covers the individual membership and not the entire family plan, it can still significantly reduce your monthly cost. For example, if your family membership drops from around $110 per month to roughly $60 per month and you’re earning a paycheck for a few hours of work each week, the math starts looking pretty attractive.
Let’s say you work just 8 hours per month:
- Reduced membership cost
- Extra income from your paycheck
- Access to childcare while you work
- Continued use of all the YMCA amenities
That’s a win-win in my book.
This tip isn’t just limited to gyms. Many businesses offer employee perks that can offset costs you already pay for:
- Gyms and fitness centers
- Daycare centers
- Retail stores
- Coffee shops
- Theme parks
- Community recreation centers
Before canceling a membership because it’s getting expensive, consider asking whether there are part-time opportunities available. A few hours each month could turn a costly expense into a valuable benefit.
Sometimes financial independence isn’t about making more money—it’s about getting creative with the money you’re already spending.
Money Saving Tip of the Day: Before you cancel a membership, ask if there are employee perks that could help offset the cost. You might be surprised by what’s available.