4 Unique Ways to Save Money at the Gas Station
Gas station stops are essential for many travelers, but when gas prices are set at high amounts, you may feel forced to pay too much to fill your tank. Check out some unique ways to save money at the gas station that can lead to large amounts of annual savings.
1. Cash Back Credit Cards
Get a little extra money back every time you pump gas at the station with a cashback credit card option. Shop around to find a credit card with the highest cashback rates. Some cards may offer bigger discounts exclusively for gas stations. Once you have a card, you can start to save money on your gas needs.
Set up automatic payments each month to pay off the balance of the card. With this method, you will avoid any interest fees and will have the cashback build-up you need. Keep an eye on any promotional emails from the credit card as you could have certain time periods where the cashback percentage increases. Use those times to increase your savings.
Some credit cards also give rewards points for purchases. Redeem rewards points for gift cards to use at gas stations and save even more at the pump.
2. Tire Air Pressure
Many gas stations feature air fill-up stations. Every month or so, you should stop by the air fill station to check the pressure in your tires. Tire pressure fluctuates based on temperature and lower air pressure could result in lower gas mileage. Your vehicle has to work harder to drive on roads when there is less air in the tires.
Check the air pressure in your tires and fill up each tire so the air pressure amount is equal. Many gas stations offer air free of charge. Even air pressure tanks with a payment method often have a free option.
3. Coupon Apps
Gas stations offer a quick way to purchase snacks and drinks while you travel. Save money each time you shop at a gas station with the use of a coupon app. Even if the gas station doesn't have a sale or coupon, many apps provide alternate ways to save.
Some apps will give you rewards when you scan items you purchase along with the receipt you have. Others will allow you to store general coupons and use them at checkout. Take a little time to find the best coupon apps to fit your needs. If you shop for specific brands like Coke, Pepsi, or Doritos, then check out their official apps for coupons and savings.
Once you have a routine built in, you will save money with each gas station purchase.
4. Lottery Ticket Tax Deductions
If you enjoy purchasing lottery tickets at gas stations, start making a habit of keeping every ticket you purchase. The losing tickets will add up over time and could come in handy if you win larger amounts. If you win a lot of money with a lottery ticket, you will have to claim those winnings on your taxes.
Fortunately, you can take all of the losing tickets to offset the winnings. For example, if you won $3,000 on a lottery ticket and had $500 in losing tickets, then you could deduct the $500 from the $3,000 and only owe taxes on $2,500 of the winnings. The deduction amount can equal the winning amount so you effectively do not have to pay any taxes on your wins.
Visit one of our Biltmore Oilshort-stop gas stations the next time you want to fill up on gas and save money. A little extra effort into saving money can go a long way in increasing your annual savings and give you more cash for your needs.
