Beating Broke

Personal Finance from the Broke Perspective

Pumpkin Spice and Other Things Not Nice: These 8 Fall Spends Are Killing Your Budget

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pumpkin spice latte budget drain
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We all love that first sip of pumpkin spice latte when the air starts to get crisp. It feels like comfort in a cup, but at $6 or more per drink, those cozy vibes add up fast. If you grab one a few times a week, you’re looking at $50–$100 a month just on flavored coffee. That’s enough to cover a streaming subscription, a gym membership, or a week’s worth of groceries. Pumpkin spice may be delicious, but it’s quietly draining your wallet one sip at a time. Here are 8 fall spending traps you should avoid.

1. Fall Fashion Frenzy

When the weather cools down, it’s tempting to refresh your wardrobe with boots, scarves, and chunky sweaters. Retailers know this and flood stores with “must-have” fall collections. But do you really need three pairs of brown boots or five plaid flannels? Probably not. Fall fashion splurges can easily run into hundreds of dollars, especially if you’re chasing trends instead of timeless pieces. Then, add in outfits for holiday events, and you’ll be seeing red.

2. Holiday Overload

Christmas is magical, but it’s also one of the sneakiest budget killers of the year. All the extras add up quickly. Things like wrapping paper, decorations, lights, and endless holiday parties, make expenses pile up faster than Santa’s sleigh on Christmas Eve. Families often spend hundreds, sometimes thousands, just to make the season sparkle. And let’s be honest, those giant inflatable snowmen and twinkling light displays aren’t cheap. While it’s fun to embrace the holiday spirit, it’s worth asking if you really need to go all out. Your wallet might prefer a simpler celebration that still feels festive without draining your bank account.

3. Apple Picking Adventures

Apple orchards are Instagram gold, but they’re also pricey outings. Between admission fees, hayrides, cider donuts, and bags of apples, you can easily drop $50–$100 in a single afternoon. Sure, it’s wholesome fun, but do you really need 20 pounds of apples that will sit on your counter until they go soft? The experience is lovely, but it’s not exactly budget-friendly. You can still make Fall and Winter memories for free with activities like walks in the park or a drive around neighborhoods to look at holiday lights.

4. Football Season Splurges

Fall means football, and football means spending. Tickets, tailgates, jerseys, and endless snacks can drain your budget faster than a quarterback sack. Even watching from home isn’t cheap if you’re stocking up on wings, beer, and streaming packages. Sports are fun, but they’re also a seasonal money pit. If you really want a jersey, buy one secondhand to save money. There are budget-friendly ways to enjoy your favorite sport.

5. Cozy Décor Obsession

Pumpkins, candles, wreaths, and rustic signs, the décor temptation is real. Stores roll out endless seasonal decorations, and it’s easy to get carried away. But remember, this season only lasts a few months. Spending hundreds on décor that gets boxed up quickly isn’t the smartest move. Your home can feel cozy without looking like a Pinterest board exploded in your living room. Remember, even the dollar store has seasonal decor.

6. Seasonal Treats and Snacks

Beyond pumpkin spice lattes, fall and winter bring every festive snack imaginable. These treats are delicious but often overpriced. Grocery stores and bakeries capitalize on seasonal hype, charging more for items you could make at home for a fraction of the cost. Indulging occasionally is fine, but daily splurges add up quickly. Your taste buds may thank you, but your wallet won’t.

7. Weekend Getaways

Fall foliage trips and cozy cabin rentals are popular this time of year. But between travel costs, lodging, and dining out, these weekend getaways can rival the price of a full vacation. While it’s tempting to chase the perfect Instagram shot of autumn leaves, you don’t need to spend hundreds to enjoy the season. A local hike or day trip can deliver the same fall vibes without crushing your budget.

8. Christmas Gifts

’Tis the season of giving and overspending. Between wish lists, Secret Santa exchanges, and last‑minute impulse buys, Christmas gifts can quickly snowball into a financial avalanche. It’s easy to get caught up in the holiday spirit and splurge on gadgets, toys, or luxury items that stretch way beyond your budget. Retailers know this and lure shoppers with “can’t‑miss” deals that aren’t always as magical as they seem. Thoughtful gifts don’t have to be expensive — sometimes the best present is time, creativity, or a homemade touch. Your wallet will thank you when January rolls around.

Endless Budget Stressors

Fall is full of cozy traditions and seasonal fun, but it’s also packed with sneaky expenses. From pumpkin spice lattes to Christmas blowouts, these eight fall spends can quietly drain your wallet. The good news? With a little awareness, you can enjoy autumn without going broke. Sip smarter, shop wisely, and remember, the best things are free: crisp air, colorful leaves, and time with friends.

Has your fall spending crept up this year? Let us know in the comments. 

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Cyber Monday Crash Course: How One Online Shopping Habit Can Turn a Hustle Into a Headache

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buying reselling inventory on Cyber Monday
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Cyber Monday is a goldmine for savvy shoppers, and a launchpad for thousands of side hustles. From flipping discounted electronics to reselling limited-edition sneakers, many people use the day’s deals to stock up and sell for profit. But what starts as a smart move can quickly spiral into a logistical headache if you’re not careful. Here’s how to make the best decisions on Cyber Monday for your side business.

Avoiding Costly Mistakes on Cyber Monday

To find the best deals for reselling on Cyber Monday, you have to be smart from the beginning. Set up shopping alerts to score the best items. But, you have to be aware that making a profit requires you to be picky when selecting inventory. Not all deals are resellable. You’ll have to track your cost of goods,  look up price comparisons on resale marketplaces, and calculate margins to decide if sales are worth flipping. Tools like Terapeak can help you make informed decisions. If you overbuy, you could be left with a ton of stale inventory.

Often, liquidation companies run sales on Cyber Monday. But that doesn’t mean that boxes or pallets of inventory are worth buying. Always look up reviews on the company you are interested in buying from. Many companies sell goods that are heavily damaged, not on trend, or don’t hold value. You don’t want to be saddled with inventory that you have to take a loss on. Do your homework and don’t buy just because it’s a good deal.

If you are buying from traditional retailers with the intent to resell, you also have to consider that your consumer may be aware of these deals. Shoppers are more savvy than ever. If you try to resell items for a higher price, the market may not support it. Make sure to purchase items that are scarce and desirable for the best profit. You’ll want to consider things like sell-through rate and brand reputation before making purchases.

Platform Considerations

E-commerce platforms like eBay, Etsy, and Facebook Marketplace are under pressure to enforce stricter seller policies. That means verifying identities, tracking inventory, and flagging suspicious activity. If you’re buying large quantities of items on Cyber Monday and immediately listing them for sale, algorithms may tag your account as a commercial seller. Make sure that you have the proper documentation to resell certain brands, or your account could get flagged. In addition, always make sure that your items are authentic. If you list counterfeit goods that you bought on sale, your accounts could get suspended or you could get banned.

The Tax Trap You Didn’t See Coming

Most people use the same PayPal, Venmo, or Cash App account for everything: splitting dinner, buying gifts, and collecting payments from buyers. But when Cyber Monday purchases intended for resale flow through the same account as personal transactions, it creates confusion. Always keep your business purchases separate.

The IRS doesn’t care whether you call it a hobby or a hustle. If you’re making money, it’s taxable. Many Cyber Monday resellers forget to track their expenses, keep receipts, or report profits. But once a 1099-K is issued, the IRS expects a matching income report on your tax return. If you don’t file correctly, you could face penalties, interest, or an audit. And if you’re using personal accounts for business income, you may lose access to deductions that could lower your tax bill.

How to Protect Your Hustle

If you plan to resell Cyber Monday purchases, treat it like a business from day one. Use a separate bank account or payment platform for all transactions. Track your purchases, sales, and shipping costs. Save receipts and document buyer communications. Consider using accounting software or a simple spreadsheet to stay organized. And most importantly, understand your tax obligations.

The Bottom Line: Smart Hustles Need Smart Systems

Cyber Monday can be a launchpad for profit, but only if you treat your hustle like a business. Mixing personal and commercial activity may seem harmless, but it can lead to serious consequences. With a little planning and discipline, you can flip deals without flipping out.

If you’ve turned Cyber Monday into a side hustle, leave a comment. Your tips could help others avoid costly mistakes.

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10 Reasons To Help A Neighbor This Year For Thanksgiving

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Helping a neighbor this Thanksgiving
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In these trying times full of food insecurity, rising prices, and instability, Thanksgiving feels all the more poignant. Many people focus on family plans, good food, and gratitude for all they have. But what about your community and your neighbors? Some people right in your neighborhood are facing financial hardship and struggling to make ends meet. They may not be able to put food on the table this holiday. Just one simple act of kindness may give them hope that times will get better. Here are 10 meaningful reasons to lend a hand this Thanksgiving.

1. Combat Loneliness

Loneliness can be compounded during the holiday season. Many older adults and widowed neighbors spend Thanksgiving alone. Human connection is one of the most powerful gifts you can offer. You may not realize it, but even a short conversation can change someone’s day. Or you could go the extra mile and invite a neighbor to your celebration. Even a phone call to check in may be the difference.

2. Share Surplus Food

What do you do with your Thanksgiving leftovers? While you may try to repurpose leftovers, in reality, some of it usually goes to waste. What if, instead, you brought over a plate to a neighbor? A homemade meal is the ultimate comfort for someone who may not be cooking this holiday. Food is love, and sharing it can be the most thoughtful gesture.

3. Support Seniors With Limited Mobility

Do you know neighbors who have limited mobility? Age or disability may make it impossible for some of your neighbors to shop for holiday essentials. Help ease their burden by offering to run errands for them. Your support can turn a stressful day into a joyful one.

4. Teach Kids the Value of Giving

Do you have children? They are always watching and learning from you. Helping a neighbor is a great way to involve children in acts of kindness. It teaches gratitude, empathy, and community responsibility. Kids can help bake cookies, make cards, or deliver meals. Let them know that Thanksgiving becomes more meaningful when it’s shared.

5. Strengthen Community Bonds

Reaching out to a neighbor for Thanksgiving open the door for connection throughout the year. When neighbors help each other, trust grows. A strong community is built on small acts of care. Kindness is contagious, and it starts with you.

6. Ease Financial Pressure

Some families are struggling to afford a holiday meal. Donating groceries, gift cards, or inviting someone to join your table can relieve that burden. You don’t have to solve every problem. But you can lighten the load. Your generosity could be the reason someone enjoys Thanksgiving this year. If you’re looking for where to donate, reach out to your local food bank.

7. Honor the Spirit of the Holiday

Thanksgiving is rooted in gratitude and sharing. Helping a neighbor embodies the true meaning of the season. It’s not about perfection; it’s about connection. When you give, you honor the values that make Thanksgiving special. It’s a celebration of community, not just cuisine.

8. Create New Traditions

Helping others can become a cherished part of your holiday tradition. Whether it’s delivering meals, hosting a neighbor, or volunteering together, these acts add depth to your celebration. Traditions don’t have to be inherited; they can be created. And the best ones often involve giving.

9. Inspire Others to Act

Your kindness can spark a ripple effect. When others see you helping, they may be inspired to do the same. One act can lead to many, creating a culture of care in your neighborhood. Thanksgiving is the perfect time to lead by example. Be the reason someone else gives.

10. Feel Good

Helping others boosts your mood, reduces stress, and increases feelings of purpose. It’s scientifically proven that generosity benefits the giver as much as the receiver. Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on what you have, and share it. The joy you create will come back to you tenfold.

Kindness Is the Best Side Dish

This Thanksgiving, don’t just think about what’s on your plate; think about who’s around you. Helping a neighbor is one of the most powerful ways to celebrate the season. Whether it’s a warm meal, a kind word, or a helping hand, your gesture could be the highlight of someone’s holiday. Gratitude grows when it’s shared, and so does joy.

Are you planning to help a neighbor this Thanksgiving? Share your ideas or stories in the comments. We’d love to hear how you’re spreading kindness.

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