Trick or Treat: Money Edition

Not all money advice is a treat. Here’s how to spot the tricks hiding in plain sight.

Halloween might be all about jump scares and spooky stories, but when it comes to money, the real frights often come disguised as “good advice.” Some habits look harmless, even smart, until they sneak up and drain your bank account. Others might seem small or boring but actually build lasting financial confidence.

The Tricks: Beware of Financial Frights

1. “Buy Now, Pay Later” Temptations

Why it seems sweet: It feels like free money with split payments, no interest, and instant gratification.

The trick: You’re not just paying later; you’re paying more often. Those little installments stack up, especially across multiple apps. Before you know it, you’re juggling four micro loans and wondering where your paycheck went.

Better move: Treat yourself to delayed gratification. Wait 24 hours before clicking “checkout.” If you still want it tomorrow, it’s probably worth it.

2. The Too Good To Be True “Smart” Savings App

Why it seems sweet: AI investing, round ups, promised returns that sound like magic.

The trick: Some of these apps make money off your fees, not your growth. And a few don’t even have FDIC insurance. If you wouldn’t hand your wallet to a stranger in a mask, don’t hand over your financial data to one either.

Better move: Stick to trusted platforms such as banks or brokers with transparent terms and real protection.

3. The “No Fun Allowed” Budget

Why it seems sweet: Cutting all your fun money sounds disciplined and responsible.

The trick: It’s a short-term fix that leads to long term burnout. Deprivation often turns into revenge spending, and suddenly that “no spend month” becomes an “oops I bought a PS5” moment.

Better move: Build a flexible budget that includes joy money. Spending on things that make you happy, within reason, keeps your financial plan sustainable and your sanity intact.

The Treats: Habits That Actually Sweeten Your Finances

1. Automate It and Forget It

Consistency beats motivation every time. Set up automatic transfers for savings, bills, and investments so your good habits run on autopilot. Think of it as your financial candy conveyor belt: steady, predictable, and low effort.

2. Invest Small, Start Now

Waiting for the perfect time to invest is like waiting for the perfect weather to go trick or treating. You’ll miss all the good stuff. Start with what you have, even if it’s just a few dollars. The real magic isn’t timing the market, it’s time in the market.

3. Keep It Simple: One Number to Rule Them All

If traditional budgets make your brain melt faster than a chocolate bar in the sun, try a one number approach. Figure out how much you can freely spend each week after covering bills and goals. That’s your “flex number.” Spend it guilt free and stop overthinking every purchase.

The Final Word

When it comes to money, not everything wrapped in shiny packaging is good for you. Some “tips” will rot your financial health, while others help you build wealth that lasts. This Halloween, skip the scary advice and fill your bag with habits that actually treat your future self well.