How to spend an extra $500

What will you do with a cool half-grand of bonus bucks? While we’re sure you have plenty of ideas, we have some great suggestions, just in case. 

So let’s get right to them!

Invest in yourself

• Invest it: Start a small portfolio of stocks and mutual funds and let it ride the market.
• Pay off debt: Reduce high-interest credit card debt to save yourself money in the long run.
• Build a nest egg: Boost your savings for future unexpected expenses. Let it earn interest.
• Insurance premiums: Pay for a portion of your health, auto, or home insurance.

Make your home even better

• Energy-efficient appliances: Upgrade to appliances that save your planet and pocketbook.
• Home improvement: Upgrade your home with new fixtures or repairs.
• Hire a housecleaner: Have someone come in and give the place an overhaul.
• Personal IT upgrades: Upgrade your phone, tablet, or laptop.
• Cooking gadgets: Get that fancy kitchen gadget you’ve been obsessed with lately.
• Car maintenance: Make those repairs to take your car into the next phase of its life.

Lobby for your hobbies

• Go antiquing: Make the old new again by shopping some of the local antique malls.
• Decorate a room: Do a room makeover by investing in new décor.
• Invest in pets: Spoil your pet(s) or buy a new one. Have any room in the yard for chickens?
• Invest in a hobby: Invest in materials for a new hobby like painting or gardening.
• DIY project kits: Try your hand at woodworking, electronics, or crafting.
• Art supplies: Invest in high-quality materials to get the creative juices flowing again.
• Shopping spree at your favorite store: Shop ‘til you drop. Then shop some more.

Upgrade your experiences

• Comedy show tickets: Treat yourself and friends to a memorable night of laughter.
• Subscription boxes: Sign up for quirky monthly boxes like “Bacon of the Month.”
• White elephant: Stock up on funny gifts to surprise your friends with for special occasions.

Invest in your fitness

• Fitness gear: Purchase that fancy bike you’ve been wanting for years and finally enjoy it!
• Health and wellness: Join a gym or enroll in a marathon training class.

Invest in your mind

• Education: Take an online course or buy educational materials you’ve been eyeing.
• Learn a second language: Purchase language learning software or classes. ¡Muy bien!
• Professional development: Attend a conference or workshop in your field.

Get out of town

• Travel: Take a short trip or weekend getaway. Or enjoy a shopping spree staycation!
• Outdoor gear: Buy camping, hiking, or fishing gear. Time in nature is good ROI.

Arts, culture, and community

• Invest in art: Commission a humorous portrait or caricature. Or shop local art dealers.
• Get cultured: Attend concerts, theater performances, or art exhibits.
• Photography gear: Upgrade your camera or buy new lenses, backdrops, or accessories.
• Make a donation: Give to a cause or organization near and dear to your heart.

The great news: How you choose to spend your $500 is entirely up to you! While we’ve given some pretty good options, we’re sure you have some ideas of your own. Chat with a banker to get started today — or better yet, open your new checking account online in less than 5 minutes.