Some of the spookiest moments are when your money does a disappearing act. Even if you agreed to it! Streaming subscriptions and digital services offer nearly instant gratification, and postponed billing. And that payment date can easily be overlooked later.

As we move farther into the rest of this year, it’s a good opportunity to “fall clean” the subscriptions that are haunting your bottom line. It’s time to cancel what’s not helping you and modify your digital spending routine before the gift-giving holidays creep up!

Why Are Subscriptions So Sneaky?

For the most part, they’re not sneaky at all. Subscription services are super convenient; maybe a little too convenient. Why? Because it’s easy to tap or click … and forget. I’m sure I’m not the only one to have signed up for a free trial, limited time deal, or new service with auto-renewal, only to forget I put my money where my app is.

Here’s a list of some of the most common services we stream or subscribe to:

• TV and movie platforms
• Music apps
• Gaming apps
• Grocery or department store memberships
• Cosmetics and health & beauty subscriptions
• Fitness apps
• Meal kits
• Delivery services
• Online tools (like photo storage or writing apps)
• Magazines (if you remember those)
• And more!

These services give us entertainment, family bonding, or a way to pass the time for a minimal cost. But the low monthly fees of these subscriptions can quickly add up, especially if you have several at the same time.

You’re the Subscriptions Captain Now

This is a hat you can wear any time of year, not just during Halloween. Take the helm of the subscriptions ship and steer it toward auditing your services. Here’s how:

• Review your statements – Look back 1–2 months for recurring charges.
• Track your subscriptions – Use an app, notebook, or spreadsheet.
• Check your settings – Assess the app store settings on your digital devices.
• Evaluate usage – Is the service being used or even worth the cost?
• Cancel – Unsubscribe from what you want to get rid of.
• Make it a habit – Continue doing audits several times a year.

FOMO

Even though you want to save money, are you nervous you might miss out on something? Like not having the quickest connection to the latest show or movie, easy deliveries, or useful tools?

All is not lost! Here are some ideas for thinning out services without losing value:

• Take turns – Pause or cancel one subscription to try a different one.
• Sharing is caring – Go in on group plans, if available.
• Lower your tier – If the service has subscription levels, change to a less expense tier.
• Seasonal re-subscribing – Sign up during the peak use times that will serve you most.
• Free trials – I know they can be scary. Make sure to set reminders to cancel.

No Tricks, Only Treats

Your bank or credit card statements do not have to give you a jump scare. You have the power to cancel subscriptions, budget your funds, and make digital services work for your benefit.

Do you have time this week to do a quick subscription services audit? Allow yourself just 15 minutes to review them. You may end up with more than you bargained for.