Right now, it's probably best that you stay in the house to keep everyone safe. However, being stuck inside can do massive damage to your bank account, so what gives? Luckily, there are at least 10 different ways to save money at home even when you're forced to be there.

Believe it or not, you don't have to launch a side gig or give up your favorite creature comforts to keep a little cash in your pocket. It's all about being smarter with the money you already have. So, use this time to get savvier with your stash and not feel bitter about your budget.

Begin by thinking about how much money you'd like to save each week, month, or year. Try to be realistic about your expectations and remember that each household is different. Then, start using these 10 tactics to bolster your bank account.

1. Turn In Old Bottles And Cans

Did you know that most communities have recycling programs that pay citizens to return aluminum cans and plastic bottles? In fact, some states make consumers pay a special tax just to cover the costs of sustainability. That means you can earn back some of your own cash by taking your trash to the right spots.

2. Collect Your Spare Change

Coins can add up quickly. Pay for something that costs $1.50 and you suddenly have 50 cents at the bottom of your handbag. That change then gets forgotten but it never loses its value. So, collect as much of it as you can and then spend it first before breaking a dollar. Or, save it up to pay for things that are usually covered by your paycheck.

3. Shop At The Right Times

Stores are always having sales and they're typically around the holidays. Depending on the celebration and season, certain items can get discounted significantly. As a savvy shopper, you then take advantage of those times by using circulars and online ads to schedule your spending. And for up-to-the-minute savings, you can subscribe to newsletters or join free clubs.

4. Get The Sunday Paper

Every newspaper in the country puts out a Sunday special with a packet of manufacturer's coupons inside. The supply is so reliable, in fact, that some people use those coupons as cash. The TV show "Extreme Couponing" even lists it as the number one source for savings. So, sign up for your copy this week and keep more dough for the next.

5. Buy Household Items From A Discount Store

Household items are the things that you have to buy no matter what - hygiene products, pet food, groceries, etc. They're products that get used, abused, and then thrown away, so stop spending as much money on them if you can. Many times, your local discount store will provide low-cost alternatives that work just as good as the name brand stuff you're used to.

6. Grow Some Of Your Own Food

Contrary to popular belief, you don't have to be a veteran farmer to grow a garden. You don't even need an outdoor space if you plant the right foods. In-home horticulture is a great way to keep some money in the bank, especially if you eat a lot of fruits, vegetables, or herbs. So, invest in good seeds to reap a more frugal harvest.

7. Pay Your Bills Online

Many companies offer a discount to consumers who "go green" by paying their bills online. It limits paper waste and prevents the need for costly middlemen. Plus, your debts get paid right away and you don't even have to leave the house – or put on pants for that matter.

8. Switch To Energy-Efficient Appliances

If possible, change up the way you power your home or office. Modern technology has provided countless alternatives to traditional, energy-sucking appliances in our lives. You can even switch your light bulbs to the kind that doesn't use as much electricity. In the end, your utility bills will level out, if not measurably reduce.

9. Rethink Your Entertainment

Do you know how much money you spend on entertainment each month? Think about your cable and internet fees and don't forget about eating at restaurants and playing games online. Chances are, there's some wiggle room in the budget just waiting to be discovered there. Play it smart and entertain yourself for less.

10. Use Your Title Loan For Cash

When it comes to needing quick, emergency cash, one option you have is title loans. These are loans you receive when you use your vehicle’s title as collateral. The great thing about this loan is you can keep your vehicle while you repay the loan – on time – and you can still apply if you have bad credit.

How Do I Get A Title Loan?

Our process is simple to follow. For a quick step-by-step, our process goes like this:

1. Start by filling out our short online form. Just head to our homepage and you’ll find it at the top;
2. You’ll then receive a phone call from a loan associate who will walk you through the process;
3. Please bring your state-issued ID, your lien-free vehicle title, and your vehicle to one of our title loan near me locations in Illinois;
4. Once you arrive, one of our loan representatives will help you complete the application. They will look over your items, do a quick vehicle inspection, and let you know if you’ve been approved;
5. Once you’ve been approved you will receive the amount you were approved for. The whole process could take 30 minutes or less.

Just because you're stuck in the house over a temporary pandemic doesn't mean you can't make permanent adjustments to your spending habits and save more money.