Best Things to Buy Every Month in 2024
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A new year is a good opportunity to take charge of your personal budget and develop a strategy for buying the things you want.
Create a list of the big buys you plan to make this year and use our guide to time each purchase right, so you can save money.
- What is tax-loss harvesting?
- Bluevine Business Checking
- Compare Medicare Advantage providers
- Find the right Medicare Advantage plan
- Fidelity is best for:
- Charles Schwab is best for:
- Definitions: Money Transfer Rates
- What is the Section 179 deduction?
- Nerdy takeaways about where to exchange currency
- IRA vs. 401(k)
- Find the right Medicare Supplement Insurance plan
- Still deciding on the right carrier? Compare Medigap plans
- Hubspot
- Zoho CRM
- What is passive income?
- What is NCUA insurance?
- How travel credit cards generally work
- 5 steps to fill out a money order
- 2023 Ohio state income tax rates and tax brackets (taxes filed in 2024)
- Key findings
- What is margin trading?
- California state sales tax rate
- S&P 500 index (SPX) today
- What to do before buying an RV
- 7 of the best apps to make money
- How to get paid on YouTube
- 7 best-performing AI stocks
- What is inflation guard and how does it work?
- The cheapest car insurance companies by category
- Best stocks by one-year performance
- Number of properties and pricing
- National first-time home buyer programs
- Why would my credit score drop after paying off debt?
- What is a down payment?
- 1. Certificates of deposit (CDs)
- Online marketplace and auction sites
- About AKC pet insurance
- 1. When your Bitcoin is taxed depends on how you got it
- What's the best S&P 500 index fund?
- Choosing an IRA vs. a 401(k)
- How do you get Southwest travel funds?
- Step 1: Choose your health insurance marketplace
- HubSpot Marketing Hub: Best overall marketing software
- Key findings
- January
- How to maximize rewards with the Ink Business Cash® Credit Card
- Best places to sell clothes online
- 1. The Centurion Black Card is invitation-only
- Average car loan interest rates by credit score
- B2C product production
- California state income tax brackets and rates
- How a cash advance works
- Will you pay off your balance in full and on time every month?
- 1. Use taxis and rideshares safely
- Florida Blue Medicare Advantage pros and cons
- 1. Sell spare electronics
- How does capital gains tax on real estate work?
- What is the American Express Global Lounge Collection?
- Why is having a low credit utilization important?
- 529 contribution limits by state
- Step 1: Check your credit
- What is net worth?
- American Airlines AAdvantage® MileUp® vs. Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard® vs. Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®
- Fidelity at a glance
- The best budget apps
- General advice for international money transfers
- What is a growth stock?
- How balance transfers work
- How to manage your money
- FuboTV cost per month
- 1. Set your budget
- What is credit life insurance?
- How to find your British Airways baggage allowance
- California state sales tax calculator
- Share of taxpayers using Free File declined in 2022
- What is a foreign transaction fee?
- How do LLC taxes work?
- 50/30/20 budget calculator
- What to expect when flying Copa economy class
- Hotel stays and vacation packages
- You’ll probably be rejected for popular cards
- How do credit union loans work?
- What is a tax credit?
- HELOCs and home equity loans compared
- Financial advisor fees
- 17 passive income ideas
- What is a good APR for a credit card?
- Investing through an HSA
- It's not a done deal
- Key takeaways
- Roth IRA contribution limits 2024
- What is a tax extension?
- 1. Fill in the recipient’s name
- The best airline credit cards for international travel
- Does the 2024 tax extension deadline apply to me?
- Charles Schwab at a glance
- How the Section 179 tax deduction works
- Why pay extra on car loan principal?
- What is lifestyle creep?
- 4 common check fraud scams
- 5 Ways to get started in real estate investing
- The bull call spread
- Southwest delayed flight compensation: a meal voucher and travel credit
- How much earnest money to offer
- Compare Medicare Supplement plans in California
- What is the gift tax?
- What does it mean to invest in the S&P 500?
- How tax-loss harvesting works
- The best money-making apps
- How to invest in stocks in 6 steps
- How NCUA insurance works
- How to make money online
- The SEC takes notice
- 2. Sell your gift cards
- Your own insurance usually comes first
- How much do Instagram influencers make?
- Steps to getting an auto loan with bad credit
- An emergency fund is a top priority for nearly half of Americans
- Best place to exchange currency: Your bank or credit union
- Top United credit card benefits
- You'll keep more money in stocks
- Which stores offer Jersey Assurance?
- How much is life insurance?
- What is the Kia Challenge?
- Who pays CA sales tax?
- Spirit Airlines bag fees
- From high risk to high reward
- What is a business credit score?
- Protect your own finances
- Savings have dwindled for many during the pandemic
- Hawaiian Airlines cancellation policy
- What is the Walmart MoneyCenter?
- 2. It will cost you $10,000 to get one
- Why are gas prices going up?
- How are dividends taxed?
- Can you offset the card's annual fee?
- 5 steps to get preapproved for a home loan
- Roth IRA income limits 2024
- Are these the best stocks to buy now?
- How to lower your credit utilization
- 529 contributions and the gift tax
- 1. They offer lucrative rewards for popular spending
- What is the average American net worth?
- A closer look at American Airlines credit card offers
- Do I have to pay Ohio state income tax?
- Wise is best for:
- What does the value of Hilton points mean?
- How is PMI calculated?
- 1. Leverage your existing financial relationships
- 1. Take inventory of your finances
- Buying on margin example
- What is an S&P 500 index fund?
- What is the 50/30/20 rule?
- Most popular Medicare Supplement Insurance plan types in California
- How to calculate your home equity
- 3. Pawn something
- How the home sale tax exemption works
- YNAB, for hands-on zero-based budgeting
- Do you need to put 20% down on a house?
- Understand that timeshares aren't a financial investment
- Get the Best HELOC Rate
- The Gold Card’s features
- How does earnest money work?
- Best car insurance in New Jersey overall: Travelers
- Who pays the gift tax?
- Savings bond calculator
- How do tax credits work?
- Financial advisor fees by service
- What is the dividend tax rate?
- Cheap(er) cell phone plans from Verizon, T-Mobile and AT&T
- Who should consider inflation guard coverage?
- 2. Be alert when drinking and dating
- How to evaluate credit card APRs
- Take advantage of the triple tax benefit
- Southwest credit cards
- Types of American Express Global Lounges
- Ease of earning hotel points
- 2. Write your address in the purchaser section
- Wise pros
- How many Instagram followers do you need to make money?
- Best-performing growth stocks
- What expenses qualify for Section 179?
- How to pay extra on car loan principal
- 2. Cash management accounts
- How much is PMI?
- AKC pet insurance plans and coverage
- How life insurance rates are determined
- What does credit life insurance cover?
- Online tax prep, where 'free' can be misleading
- February
- More about this card
- Best credit union personal loans for 2024
- Are auto loan interest rates rising?
- Why cash advances are expensive
- But ripple effects may eventually reach you
- Winner: Hilton
- You may choose to keep working
- 2. Shop for a loan
- 4 steps to spot a fake check and avoid trouble
- How the Kia Challenge may affect your insurance
- Is it the same as a currency conversion fee?
- Best car insurance in Texas overall: Travelers
- Step 2: Compare types of health insurance plans
- How LLCs pay income taxes
- Do you pay taxes when you receive a gift?
- Talk to the parents before giving a gift
- 2 card types to apply for if you have bad credit
- Pump that crypto spirit up
- Preapproval is not the same as pre-qualification
- 4. Work today for fast cash today
- How to find the best stocks to buy now
- How to file a tax extension
- 3. Include your account number if you're paying a bill
- Step 2: Pre-qualify and compare offers
- Average net worth by age
- The pros and cons of a life insurance trust
- Wise cons
- WVHDF highlights and eligibility requirements
- Don't buy a timeshare on vacation
- Another money-change option: Online currency converters
- 2. Strengthen your application profile
- Are paid surveys worth it?
- 2. Two factors determine your Bitcoin tax rate
- Why are S&P 500 index funds popular?
- Mortgage payoff calculator help
- Homes and villas
- How are business credit scores calculated?
- Should I buy stocks when markets are at all-time highs?
- What are the Walmart MoneyCenter hours?
- 3. You can request a Centurion Card invite online
- Other ways to increase home insurance coverage
- Florida Blue Medicare star ratings
- Where to look for information
- What if I get a tax extension but forget to pay?
- Am I a resident for Ohio state income tax purposes?
- How to monetize your Instagram with fewer followers
- How to pay off debt and help your credit score
- Average annual PMI premium
- Which AmEx cards offer expanded Jersey Assurance?
- Is it a good deal?
- Key features of IRAs vs 401(k)s
- Top Medicare Supplement Insurance companies in California
- Mailchimp: Best email marketing software
- Use the Ink App
- What state has the highest gas prices?
- What are AI stocks?
- Less ‘urgency’ to innovate for customers, skeptics say
- How to use average car interest rates
- What are qualified dividends?
- Here's how to get your money back if your credit union goes under
- Prepare for long-term care
- Can I contribute to a Roth IRA if my income is too high?
- Minimum down payment requirements
- PMI calculator help
- Determining your income tax liability
- How many S&P 500 index funds do I need?
- What items are subject to sales tax?
- Building for the future
- Is the gift tax deductible?
- Issuer pre-qualification pages
- About home equity loans
- Does the card reward your unique spending habits?
- What to expect from credit cards with low APRs
- 5. Seek community loans and assistance
- Who qualifies for the home sales tax exclusion?
- 4. Sign the bottom where it says 'purchaser’s signature'
- 2. Some rare features stand out
- Wise transfer methods and options
- How to find growth stocks
- 2023 Section 179 deduction limit
- Is there a way to lower a monthly car payment?
- 3. High-yield money market accounts (MMAs)
- Why is lifestyle creep destructive?
- You may want to save for in-home care
- What you can do to stay insured
- Alternatives to credit life insurance
- British Airways overweight and oversized baggage fees
- Where to find the real Free File
- Discuss money openly with grandchildren, too
- U.S. economy causing Americans to feel worried, stressed
- March
- 3. Look like you know where you're going
- An alternative to chasing the best stocks
- Don't pay retail
- Where to exchange currency outside the U.S.
- Good balance transfer cards
- What can I get as a replacement?
- 2. Build a money management blueprint
- 3. Determine other ownership costs
- The bear put spread
- 3. The IRS has the paperwork you’ll need
- United canceled flight compensation: travel credits and miles
- Is earnest money refundable?
- Best car insurance in New Jersey for your budget: Geico
- How to avoid foreign transaction fees
- Best Texas car insurance for your budget: State Farm
- 4. You need to be a big spender to get a Centurion Black Card
- Alternatives to cash advances
- How far in advance should I get preapproved for a mortgage?
- 6. Ask for forbearance on bills
- How to calculate your net worth
- 5 ways to make money on Instagram
- How to pay off a mortgage early
- Who is exempt from California sales tax?
- Medicare Supplement Insurance prices in California
- Do personal credit scores affect business credit scores?
- I bonds calculator
- What services are available at Walmart MoneyCenters?
- California income tax deadlines and extensions
- Cheap cell phone plans from brands owned by the big three
- Here are the limits of NCUA insurance — and how to maximize it
- How points work with a Southwest credit card
- Roth IRA contribution limits 2023
- 5. Keep your receipt
- How does a life insurance trust work?
- What if I miss the deadline for applying for a tax extension?
- Should you buy growth stocks?
- 2024 Section 179 deduction limit
- Fubo add-ons
- How to choose an S&P 500 index fund
- IRA vs. 401(k): A road map
- Airline miles
- How the annual gift tax exclusion works
- How to invest in the S&P 500 in two steps:
- What state has the lowest gas prices?
- B2B product production
- Are hotel points worth more to you than other types of points?
- Fortune favors … whom?
- 7. Request a payroll advance
- What to ask your credit card issuer
- Redeeming award nights
- How do I keep my credit score from dropping?
- Sole proprietorship taxes: Special deductions
- What to know if you take online surveys
- You'll (really) want to stay healthy
- Misconceptions about the economy abound
- How to redeem rewards on the Ink Business Cash® Credit Card
- Pay yourself back later
- What does Florida Blue Medicare Advantage cost?
- Roth IRA income limits 2023
- 3. Redemption options have caveats
- Why is net worth important?
- Goodbudget, for hands-on envelope budgeting
- Buy in attractive locations
- Know when the HELOC draw period ends
- How do Hilton points compare to other hotel programs?
- 4. Peer-to-peer lending
- Local sales
- Overspending is common, despite monthly budgeting
- Is coverage a slam-dunk?
- What eligibility requirements are borrowers still expected to meet?
- 4. Find the right car for you
- Who collects CA sales tax?
- Influencing others
- What can I do if my travel funds have expired?
- Top credit cards that offer preapproval without a hard pull
- Treasury bond and note calculator
- 5. Centurion Cardmembers still get to bring guests into the Centurion lounge
- About home equity lines of credit
- 4. Leave the Rolex at home
- What to expect from credit cards with high APRs
- How tax extensions work
- WVHDF first-time home buyer programs
- ‘Hummer tax deduction’: Which vehicles does Section 179 cover?
- 3. Seek expert advice
- Does the cost of FuboTV fit into your budget?
- What doesn’t impact your life insurance premium
- What is a good business credit score?
- Look at cash alternatives
- April
- Are Walmart MoneyCenter services worth it?
- What's next?
- 8. Take a loan from your retirement account
- Managing expectations
- Where to avoid exchanging currency
- When can the seller keep my earnest money?
- Does California have a sales tax holiday?
- Spirit Airlines change fees
- Should I just use cash instead?
- Keap: Best for dedicated support
- Cruises
- A quick guide to popular and new tax credits for 2024
- How to invest in AI stocks
- Do I have to pay California state tax?
- Elite status
- What happens if I miss the October tax extension deadline?
- What is Ohio’s standard deduction?
- Enjoy research and planning
- Understand how HELOC balloon payments work
- How to invest in the S&P 500
- What are British Airways carry-on bag size dimensions?
- Best car insurance in New Jersey for customer satisfaction: NJM
- Best Texas car insurance for customer complaints: Chubb
- OpenSky® Secured Visa® Credit Card
- Cheap cell phone plans from brands that resell network service
- Will you pay resort fees when you redeem your points?
- Next steps for your own peace of mind
- 5. Use (and hide) your phone strategically
- 9. Borrow against life insurance
- Calculate your reduced Roth contribution
- How to increase your net worth
- How to prevent lifestyle creep
- Skip currency exchange: Use a credit or debit card
- What happens to my old jersey?
- Average cost of term life insurance by age
- Medicare resources in California
- High inflation leads many to cut costs
- Workers fear losing hard-fought union benefits
- Hack your IRA
- Step 3: Choose your lender and loan
- Types of life insurance trusts
- How to convert Hilton points to dollars
- 5. Online savings accounts
- Clothes, vintage and crafts
- What’s not covered
- 5. Contact the seller or visit a dealership
- The long straddle
- 4. You can write off Bitcoin losses
- Can you deduct California sales tax?
- Get more help with monthly budget planning
- Treasury bills calculator
- 6. The Centurion Black Card offers an unbelievable level of concierge service
- How are gas prices determined?
- Dividend tax rate 2023
- What hotels look good at your future travel destinations?
- 10. Use a credit card cash advance
- 4. It pays to have a Truist account
- Look for the most flexible HELOC terms
- Can I upgrade my jersey?
- Is credit life insurance right for you?
- What's next?
- Medicare Supplement Insurance providers
- Read more about building generational wealth
- May
- What about unsecured cards for bad credit?
- 6. Dress appropriately for the culture
- What’s the filing deadline for my Ohio state income tax bill?
- Does Section 179 cover real estate?
- Should I do a balance transfer?
- Do you qualify for borrower defense forgiveness?
- What’s the difference between S&P 500 index funds and S&P 500 ETFs?
- Marriott Bonvoy Moments
- Gift tax limit 2023
- How to request a refund on Hawaiian Airlines
- How to find AI ETFs
- What is California's standard deduction?
- Qualifying for a better credit card APR
- 11. Look for a payday alternative loan
- How to increase your British Airways checked baggage allowance
- Tips for maximizing delayed flight compensation
- Best Texas car insurance for ease of use: Farmers
- 4 steps to book a flight with Southwest travel funds
- LLC payroll taxes
- Credit union personal loan rates
- 5. They are good cards to travel with
- 5 things to know about Ohio state tax
- Benefits of a larger down payment
- Avoid prepayment penalties
- The most popular surveys for cash apps
- AKC coverage options
- Best car insurance in New Jersey for ease of use: State Farm
- Step 3: Compare health plan networks
- Constant Contact: Best for unlimited user access
- How much does it cost to invest in the S&P 500?
- Dividend tax rate 2024
- 7. Buy a local SIM card to avoid high roaming costs
- Next steps:
- Lingering questions
- Available Medicare Advantage plans
- Other Roth IRA rules
- When is the deadline for filing a tax extension?
- Comparing lenders to get a bad credit auto loan
- Average cost of whole life insurance by age
- 6. Inspect and test-drive the car, if applicable
- Are the perks redundant with your current credit cards?
- Other perks of holding a Southwest credit card
- 12. Get a personal loan
- Step 4: Gather loan documents
- I still need to file. What are my options?
- What if you don’t qualify for Section 179?
- Be mindful of how much you borrow
- 6. High-yield checking accounts
- How much does credit life insurance cost?
- Petal® 2 "Cash Back, No Fees" Visa® Credit Card
- What is bad credit?
- What part of my income gets taxed by California?
- Things to consider
- How many tax extensions can you file?
- EveryDollar, for simple zero-based budgeting
- How much should you put down on a house?
- How to file your sole proprietorship tax returns
- 5. Failure to report Bitcoin can be costly
- Ways to get good value
- Gift tax limit 2024
- Most Americans think we’re currently in a recession
- June
- If you want a refund because Hawaiian canceled your flight
- 7. AmEx offers Centurion cardmembers exclusive perks
- Types of gas
- How to report dividend income on your taxes
- Contributing too much to a Roth
- HELOC alternatives
- Exchange frequently? Consider a multicurrency account
- How to apply for borrower defense to repayment
- How to avoid getting your car stolen
- Capital loss deduction
- Is hotel elite status all it's cracked up to be?
- 13. Rent out a room
- How much does a tax extension cost?
- The long strangle
- Full list of the best car insurance companies in Texas
- How to get a loan from a credit union
- Could we be in an AI bubble?
- 8. Join solo female traveler Facebook groups
- Can you use a Southwest card anywhere?
- Florida Blue Medicare Advantage service area
- Calculating capital gains tax on a home sale
- Electronics
- Alternatives to paying more for a bad-credit auto loan
- Generational beliefs about finances differ
- 7. Determine which warranties are right for you
- Full list of the best car insurance in New Jersey
- LLC self-employment taxes
- How the lifetime gift tax exclusion works
- Hawaiian Airlines travel credits
- Medical industry
- How to control your dividend tax bill
- Am I a resident for California state tax purposes?
- Zoho CRM: Best overall CRM software
- Gift cards
- Why do I need a business credit score?
- 8. Yes, you can buy a mansion or a private jet on a Centurion Card
- How to switch plans and keep your number
- Is a Southwest credit card right for you?
- Credit cards with American Express Global Lounge Collection access
- Tax extensions for overseas taxpayers and military members
- Other considerations to determine your down payment
- The best place to exchange currency at the end of your trip
- Can you cancel credit life insurance?
- Fees to check in and obtain your boarding pass for your Spirit flight
- What you can do
- July
- Interest-based passive income ideas
- If you're thinking of getting a hotel credit card
- 14. Moonlight as a dog sitter
- Which type of life insurance should I put in a trust?
- Cost of life insurance without a medical exam
- Next Steps
- Step 4: Compare out-of-pocket costs
- Upgrade Cash Rewards Visa®
- If you're considering buying an RV…
- Tax-loss harvesting rules
- Fear of store closures in small towns, despite assurances
- Finally, enjoy your travels
- Final thoughts on Hyatt vs. Hilton
- Other great credit cards for international flights
- Step 5: Submit your application and get funded
- Why you can trust NerdWallet
- LLC sales taxes
- Merchandise
- How do I get my business credit score?
- Credit union vs. online lender
- Other ways to sell clothes online
- 9. You can get many of the Centurion Card's perks from The Platinum Card® from American Express
- Why are California gas prices so high?
- 15. Become a rideshare or delivery driver
- Choosing the best American Airlines credit card for you
- Where to exchange currency: Frequently asked questions
- How applying can affect your loans
- 8. Negotiate the best price
- If you're considering a Southwest credit card
- Cards with primary coverage
- Final thoughts on American Express Lounges
- What happens after you file a tax extension?
- 2023-2024 lifetime gift tax exemption
- How to know if you purchased refundable Hawaiian Airlines tickets or not
- How much money can you make on YouTube?
- 16. Cut your insurance premiums
- Will you owe capital gains taxes on your home sale?
- Empower Personal Dashboard, for tracking wealth and spending
- Age restrictions
- Fees to select a seat ahead of time
- Using Southwest travel funds
- Should I invest in an S&P 500 index fund or S&P 500 ETF?
- August
- Should you invest in AI stocks?
- Why a financial advisor's fee structure matters
- 3. Make the most of your savings
- Waiting periods
- The synthetic long
- Final thoughts on British Airways checked baggage allowance
- LLC tax forms and deadlines
- The bottom line
- How to sell clothes online
- How to avoid capital gains tax on home sales
- American Express add-on coverage
- How do you file a state tax extension?
- Key terms in this story
- Average cost of life insurance by term length
- 9. Maximize trade-in value, if applicable
- What to look for in marketing software
- Discover it® Secured Credit Card
- Are Hawaiian refundable fares worth it?
- 10. You can get better rewards on many other cards
- Technology and invention
- 17. Consolidate your debt
- Next steps
- Does the president control gas prices?
- What is the normal fee for a financial advisor?
- Summary: West Virginia first-time home buyer programs
- AKC pet insurance rates
- How much is the gift tax rate?
- Are there drawbacks to investing in the S&P 500?
- September
- Earn an audience, and earn more in the long run
- When to file sole proprietorship taxes
- Fees for in-flight refreshments
- 18. Refinance your student loans
- It pays to know
- 10. Make the purchase
- Which states have federal tax deadline extensions?
- LLC tax tips for business owners
- Final thoughts on flying Copa Airlines economy class
- How does the Israel-Hamas war affect gas prices?
- Related articles
- 19. Change your cell phone plan
- In-cabin pet fee
- Step 5: Compare benefits
- Other ways to make money
- California state tax credits
- How to avoid gift tax
- Mission Lane Visa® Credit Card
- October
- Fashion and art
- Avoid risky loans
- How taxes on real estate, rental, and investment sales work
- PocketGuard, for a simplified budgeting snapshot
- Discounts
- Priority boarding and security access
- Is there an over-55 home sale exemption?
- State availability
- Unaccompanied minor fees
- November
- Prosper® Card
- Best stocks for beginners
- More resources
- Consumer experience
- The bottom line
- Bundle packages
- Summary: How to choose health insurance
- Manufacturing
- December
- Honeydue, for budgeting with a partner
- The bottom line on investing in stocks
- 4. Be persistent
- Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
- How to track your California state refund
- AKC vs. competitors
- California state sales tax
- How to make money from home
- Budgeting resources from NerdWallet
- Capital One Platinum Credit Card
- Fees across U.S. airlines
- 5 things to know about California state tax
- Cheapest car insurance by state
- The bottom line
- Methodology to identify the best budget apps
- AvantCard Credit Card
- How to get cheap car insurance
- The bottom line
- Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express
- Risks of getting cheap auto insurance
- How we review pet insurance
- How to make money offline
- Why you can trust NerdWallet
- Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
- Other ways to save money
- Apple Card
- Venmo Credit Card
- Watch out for making money scams
January
With a fresh page on the calendar comes a fresh start for sales. These items are discounted in January:
Bedding and linen. Department stores hold bedding and linen “white sales” in January with deep discounts on sheets and towels.
Fitness equipment. Retailers will meet goals to get in shape with decent deals. Expect workout gear and apparel sales to abound at sporting goods stores. (Tip: Tread lightly on a treadmill purchase unless you're sure you’ll use it. It’ll always be cheaper to walk around the block.)
TVs and electronics. Just before the Super Bowl, retailers normally discount TVs and other home theater essentials.
Mark your calendar: Martin Luther King Jr. Day is Jan. 15.
Freebie day: National Spaghetti Day is Jan. 4.
February
It’s the month of love and gift-giving, but February might be a better time to buy major items for yourself than trinkets for your loved one. Options include:
TVs. Television sales spill over from January into February ahead of the Super Bowl. Aside from Black Friday, this is one of the best times to buy a TV.
Winter items. With winter winding down, retailers will be looking to unload inventory of cold-weather products. Look for sales on apparel and winter sports gear that you'll need later in the year.
Home goods. Expect retailers to put home stuff on sale for Presidents Day and the weekend preceding the holiday.
Leftover chocolate. The savvy couple does Valentine’s Day a week late to save a buck. Grab a heart-shaped box of candy on Feb. 15, when stores will be discounting their Valentine’s Day leftovers. It’ll be easier to get a dinner reservation after Feb. 14 too.
Mark your calendar: Super Bowl Sunday is Feb. 11, Valentine's Day is Feb. 14 and Presidents Day is Feb. 19.
Freebie day: National Frozen Yogurt Day is Feb. 6.
March
There aren’t any major shopping holidays in March, but that doesn’t make for a total lack of sales. Look for deals on these products:
Tax software. Retailers like to discount tax software in March, ahead of Tax Day in April.
Grills. Buy your summer grilling necessities now to avoid a spike in prices when summer arrives.
St. Patrick’s Day essentials. Around St. Patrick’s Day, online retailers and department stores usually discount green clothing, party supplies and jewelry.
Vacuum cleaners: Some retailers will be ready to reward early spring cleaners with a deal on a Dyson, Shark or other brand of vacuum.
Mark your calendar: St. Patrick’s Day is March 17 and Easter Sunday is March 31.
Freebie day: Pi Day is March 14, because 3.14 (get it?).
April
April has its fair share of spring deals and discounts, including:
Vacuums. April is the real cleaning month and will bring more deals on vacuums. Look for markdowns at department stores as well as on manufacturers’ websites.
Tax-themed items. Year after year, retailers and restaurants try to lighten the burden of Tax Day with discounts and freebies on services like paper shredding. Keep an eye out for these around mid-April.
Beauty products. Time to get outside and look your best. The Sephora spring sale is usually this month.
Sustainable items. To celebrate Earth Day, be on the lookout for retailer deals on sustainable items, such as reusable totes and water bottles, sustainably made clothing and other “green” products. Is this the year you start composting? We support that.
Mark your calendar: Tax Day is April 15.
Freebie day: Earth Day is April 22.
May
April discounts give way to more in May. Here’s a look at some items to consider buying this month:
Spring apparel. By May, retailers will discount spring clothing that has already been hanging on racks for a month or two.
Furniture. Three of the biggest blowout shopping days are Black Friday, Labor Day and Memorial Day. Memorial Day is in May, so look for furniture and home decor discounts from big-box stores.
Small kitchen appliances. Use May discounts as an opportunity to buy small kitchen appliances, such as coffee makers and blenders. Typically, these products are included in Memorial Day sales, and they make great gifts for upcoming summer weddings.
If last year’s shopping research is any indication, prices on select kitchen gadgets could drop the Friday before Mother’s Day.
Mark your calendar: Mother’s Day is May 12 and Memorial Day is May 27.
Freebie day: National Hamburger Day is May 28.
June
June is short on days, but long on the list of deals. Smart purchases include:
Lingerie. Stock up on undergarments in June. That’s when Victoria’s Secret, for example, has been known to host its famous semiannual sale. The sale also typically occurs in December.
Other semiannual sales. The midway point is known for sales at lots of stores. In past years, we’ve seen stores like Bath & Body Works and Brooks Brothers hold semiannual sales in June.
Gym memberships. Consider buying a gym membership during the summer, and be sure to negotiate for the best deal. Gyms may be eager for sign-ups when people are more likely to spend time outside.
Tools and other dad gifts. In preparation for Father’s Day, many retailers will offer deals on a variety of power tools and outdoor gear, as well as things like men’s clothing. Solo Stove has discounted its portable fire pits around this time in the past.
Mark your calendar: Father’s Day is June 16.
Freebie day: National Doughnut Day is June 7.
July
In July, prices drop like it’s hot. Consider buying these:
Summer apparel. The sun is still out, but demand for summer clothes starts to go down. So, buy up shorts, tanks and flip-flops while stores make it worth it. Buy only what’s on sale, though.
July Fourth items. Retailers like a reason to celebrate. In the days leading up to Independence Day, there’s usually an abundance of sales on red, white and blue products, as well as on barbecue and backyard items, sporting goods, jewelry and furniture.
Personal electronics on Prime Day. Amazon’s Prime Day happened on July 11 and 12 in 2023, so you can likely expect similar timing in 2024. It’s basically Black Friday in July, and it’s a hot sale for electronics and gadgets, among other categories. It also drives other retailers to compete with copycat sales.
School supplies. Kids won't want to think about the end of summer yet, but retailers start putting school supplies on sale in late July. If you have supply lists in hand, shopping back-to-school early can help you avoid the August rush.
Mark your calendar: Independence Day is July 4.
Freebie day: National Ice Cream Day is July 21 and National Lipstick Day is July 29.
August
Close out summer by buying summer products? That’s right. Look for end-of-season clearance sales in August on:
Back-to-school supplies. The start of school marks the need to buy low-cost items such as notebooks and pencils and more expensive ones like calculators and laptops. Generally, the closer to the start of the school year you buy, the better your chances of getting a good price.
Backyard products. Ride out the end of summer with a big deal on lawn mowers and other seasonal outdoor equipment, like a grill.
Swimsuits. There may not be many swimming days left by the time August rolls around, but that’s exactly why swimsuit clearance sales will crest. Buy swimsuits now for next year.
Tax-free shopping. Back-to-school can be expensive. However, to aid in the purchase of school supplies, clothes, personal computers and other approved necessities, many states offer a tax-free weekend. If yours does, check the date and have your list ready.
Mark your calendar: For many school districts, the first day of school is in August.
Freebie day: National Waffle Day is Aug. 24.
September
With deals on items as varied as mattresses and pool toys, September is a surprising month for good buys. Score reasonable prices on these:
Mattresses. Year after year, September is a good time for mattress sales. Expect deals from department stores and mattress centers, usually as a part of Labor Day promotions.
iPhones. Apple often announces its latest iPhone lineup and other products in September. The unveiling is usually followed by a drop in prices on the models that have been around awhile. Check out used iPhones around this time too.
Appliances. Expect a series of blowout deals in the week leading up to Labor Day, including promotions on appliances big and small.
Mark your calendar: Labor Day is Sept. 2.
Freebie day: National Cheeseburger Day is Sept. 18.
October
Retailers won't ghost you in October. There will be plenty of deals on these product categories:
Outdoor furniture. Expect deals on patio furniture and outdoor living products when the weather turns cool.
Jeans. Fall inventory arrives in stores in August and September, but you’ll pay top dollar unless you wait a few weeks. October is a great time to buy a new pair of jeans.
Candy. The closer you get to Halloween, the better your chances of snagging a discounted bag of candy for trick-or-treaters.
Holiday gifts. Amazon has held a Prime Day-like shopping event in October for the past two years. The multi-day event sparked similarly-timed sales from retailers like Target, Walmart and Best Buy and featured deals that rival Black Friday and Cyber Monday. These events have made early October a top time to buy gifts or things you need for yourself.
Mark your calendar: Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples Day are Oct. 14 and Halloween is Oct. 31.
Freebie day: National Taco Day is Oct. 4 and National Dessert Day is Oct. 14.
November
November is the real month for Black Friday sales, which means some of the most popular technology products fall to their lowest prices. Expect most retailers to offer some kind of deal on products in nearly every category — not just on Black Friday, but throughout the month.
Electronics. Gadgets like TVs, tablets and laptops take center stage during Black Friday sales. Look for discounts on headphones, smart speakers and activity trackers, too.
Clothing. November has to be the busiest month for clothing catalogs. Scan the brands you like for discounts, and shop stores like Gap, Land’s End and American Eagle directly online for surprise coupon codes.
Streaming subscriptions: As if you need another password to remember, November has become a great time to sign up for a new streaming service. Popular content providers like Hulu and Paramount+ have offered solid subscription discounts during extended Black Friday sales in the past.
Mark your calendar: Thanksgiving is Nov. 28 and Black Friday is Nov. 29.
Freebie day: National Sandwich Day is Nov. 3.
December
The end of the year is just the beginning of discounts in some product categories. Look for sale prices on these items in December:
Electronics. Those Black Friday electronics deals from late November will spill over into the new month.
Small kitchen appliances. Cyber Monday 2024 falls on Dec. 2, and it’ll likely be a great time to get an air fryer. NerdWallet monitored prices on 10 popular products during every major sale of 2023. Each of the three kitchen gadgets on our list — an air fryer, stand mixer and coffee machine — hit low prices on Cyber Monday.
Toys. Toys are popular holiday gifts, and stores generally drop prices as the season draws to a close. Look on Black Friday but buy in December.
Christmas decorations. Beginning the day after Christmas, shop sales for deep discounts — often upward of 50% — on decorations, wrapping paper, ornaments, artificial trees and similar seasonal fixings.
Mark your calendar: Christmas is Dec. 25. Hanukkah starts Dec. 7.
Freebie day: National Cookie Day is Dec. 4.