How to Find Free Money, Grow Your Savings, and Feel Good About Spending
When it comes to money, most advice online falls into two categories: how to make more of it, and how to manage it once you’ve got it. But here’s the thing—sometimes the best financial moves are simple tweaks that make you more money and let you enjoy spending it guilt-free.
Below, I’ll share four powerful (and surprisingly easy) ways to:
✅ Find money you didn’t know you had
✅ Grow your savings automatically
✅ Treat yourself without guilt
✅ Create joy by giving in small ways
1. Check for Unclaimed Property
Did you know states in the U.S. are holding billions of dollars in unclaimed property? This could be:
Old paychecks you forgot to cash
Closed bank accounts
Insurance payouts
Utility deposits
👉 Start here: U.S. Unclaimed Property Website
If you live outside the U.S., Google “[your country] unclaimed money” to find the official government resource.
💡 Pro tip: If you’ve had a family member pass away, check under their name too—heirs often miss out on unclaimed property that’s rightfully theirs.
2. Open a High-Yield Savings Account
If you’ve got money sitting in a traditional savings account, you’re probably earning almost nothing in interest. For example:
Traditional banks: ~0.01% APY
High-yield online accounts (2026): 3.8% – 4% APY
That’s hundreds of times more growth for doing nothing except moving your money.
I use Wealthfront for my savings. They’re currently offering 4% with a referral link (here's mine). It’s 3.25% without a referral link. That’s literally 400x more than traditional accounts.
👉 Action step: If you have more than $500 in savings, move it into a high-yield savings account to beat inflation and grow your money automatically.
3. Let Yourself Have a Little Treat
Money isn’t just for bills and savings—it’s also for joy.
Think of:
Your morning latte ☕
A favorite lipstick 💄
A night out at a cozy restaurant 🍝
Research shows that frequent small pleasures boost happiness more than rare big splurges. Author Laura Vanderkam put it beautifully in her book All the Money in the World:
“Happiness is more strongly associated with the frequency than the intensity of positive experiences.”
💡 Takeaway: Don’t guilt yourself over small treats—they’re part of a balanced financial life.
4. Practice Microphilanthropy
Want a happiness hack? Give some of your money away.
Studies show people feel happier when they spend on others—even with as little as $5–$20. This doesn’t have to mean formal charity donations. Think of it as joyful generosity.
Quick ideas:
💸 Leave a larger-than-expected tip
🖍 Donate crayons or books to a local classroom
🍽 Treat a coworker or friend to lunch
☔ Buy an umbrella for someone caught in the rain
🚗 Cover a stranger’s bus fare or toll
Keeping a running list of these moments can help you see just how much positive impact you’re creating in everyday life.
Quick FAQs
Q1: How do I know if I have unclaimed money?
In the U.S., search through unclaimed.org. For other countries, look up your government’s unclaimed property or lost funds website.
Q2: Are high-yield savings accounts safe?
Yes—just make sure the account is FDIC-insured (U.S.) or covered by your country’s deposit insurance.
Q3: How much should I keep in a high-yield savings account?
A good rule of thumb is 3–6 months of living expenses, so the money is both accessible and growing. But if that seems daunting, to start with aim for just $1,000 in savings. That will get you through many typical “emergencies”.
Q4: Why do small treats make me happier than big purchases?
Because frequent, small pleasures give your brain multiple “happiness boosts,” while big purchases fade quickly after the initial excitement.
About The Author
Jessica Eastman Stewart is a consultant, workshop facilitator, and podcast guest expert. She teaches busy professionals how to get more organized at home and at work so they can stop feeling worn out and start living a Joyfully Managed Life! Thousands of readers drop everything when her weekly newsletter, The Friday Five, arrives in their inbox. Every Friday, you’ll get FIVE amazing tips to help life feel INSTANTLY more joyful and easy!
