Having worked remotely for nearly a decade (and being frugal by nature), I’ve become hooked on finding ways to save money while working from home.
My friends even joke that I’m borderline obsessive about it! 😬
So whether you’re new to remote work or just trying to cut costs, these hacks can seriously help your wallet.
And despite return-to-office talk, remote work is here to stay for many of us. So we need to get smart about those sneaky expenses, from utilities your company used to cover to the DoorDash temptation.
Over the years, I’ve tested tons of money-saving tricks and narrowed it down to these 21 that have saved me thousands!!
1. Claim That Spare Bedroom as Your “Office” on Tax Forms
Here’s a money-saving hack that literally saved me over $2,000 last year: claiming my home office on my tax return.
If you’re a W-2 employee working remotely, you might think you can’t deduct home office expenses anymore – but there’s a workaround if you live in certain states.
For example, in California (where I live), you can still claim unreimbursed employee expenses on your state tax return, even though federal tax law changed in 2017.
I turned my largest spare bedroom into my dedicated office and deducted a portion of my rent, utilities, and internet based on the room’s square footage.
The key is making sure your workspace qualifies. Your home office must be used “exclusively” for work – meaning no guest bed or Peloton in the corner!
In my case, that 180-square-foot bedroom represents about 15% of my apartment’s total area, so I can deduct 15% of eligible expenses.
Each state has different rules, so check your state tax authority’s website or consult a tax professional. For California residents, you can find the guidelines on the Franchise Tax Board website (ftb.ca.gov).
While the savings vary based on your state’s tax rate and home size, it’s worth investigating – especially since remote work is becoming permanent for many of us.
Remember to document everything and take photos of your office setup. While audit chances are low, it’s better to be prepared!
2. Ask Your Employer to Reimburse Your Wifi & Office Supplies
Don’t be shy about asking for reimbursements – you’d be surprised what employers will cover when you ask.
When my company went remote in 2020, I discovered they had a whole policy about WFH expenses that nobody knew about!
Here’s what worked for me:
First, I made a list of my monthly work-from-home expenses (WiFi, cell phone, printer ink, etc.) and compared it to what the office used to provide.
Then I asked HR about their reimbursement policy. Turns out they cover up to $100/month for internet, plus one-time purchases like monitors and office chairs.
Pro tip: If you’re negotiating a new remote position, bring this up during the offer stage.
Companies are more likely to say yes when they’re trying to get you on board. And don’t forget about software subscriptions – my company now pays for my Zoom Pro account and other work apps I used to cover myself.
Keep those receipts though – most companies require monthly expense reports for reimbursements!
3. Tell Your Car Insurance You’re Not Commuting Anymore
Here’s an easy win that saved me $480 last year: updating my car insurance to “pleasure use” instead of commuting.
When I called my insurance company (GEICO), they asked about my annual mileage – which dropped from 12,000 to about 3,000 after going remote.
You don’t lose any important coverage with this change. Your insurance still covers all the basics – accidents, theft, liability – you’re just rated as a lower-risk driver because you’re on the road less. Makes sense, right?
Pro tip: Most insurance companies offer a “low mileage discount” if you drive less than 7,500 miles per year.
Just be honest about your actual usage – I still drive for errands and weekend trips, and my policy covers all that. Some companies even offer pay-per-mile insurance now if you barely drive at all.
Quick heads up: Keep your insurance company updated if your driving habits change again. Better safe than sorry!
5.Wear the Same Shirt for Zoom Calls (Nobody Notices)
Here’s a slightly sneaky but totally practical tip: you really only need a few “Zoom-worthy” tops for video calls.
Think about it – you’re only visible from the shoulders up, so why put wear and tear on your whole professional wardrobe?
I keep three solid-colored button-downs on rotation (navy, light blue, white) for important meetings.
Nobody has ever noticed or commented on the repeat outfits – seriously, people are too focused on their own video squares to track your clothing choices!
Just stick to simple, neutral pieces without memorable patterns. A plain black shirt on Monday looks exactly like a plain black shirt on Thursday on camera.
And yes, while we’re talking about clothes – please wear pants during video calls!!!
6. Set Up Your Desk by a Window and Skip the Lamp
When I first started working from home, I had my desk against a dark wall and used my desk lamp all day.
Moving my workspace next to a window was a game-changer – not just for my electricity bill, but for my overall mood.
Natural light is perfect for video calls (no weird shadows!), and I rarely need artificial lighting until sunset.
Plus, research shows that natural light helps with productivity and reduces eye strain. Just position your screen at a 90-degree angle to the window to avoid glare, and you’re good to go.
Bonus: watching the occasional squirrel drama outside beats any office view I’ve ever had!
7. Run Your Dishwasher at 2 AM When Electricity Is Cheaper
Electricity rates aren’t the same all day. Many utility companies use time-of-use (TOU) pricing, which means you pay more during peak hours (usually late afternoon and evening) and less when demand is lower—like early mornings or late at night.
Check your local utility provider’s pricing schedule. Some states, like California and Arizona, have steep TOU rate differences, while others, like Tennessee, often have flat rates all day. If your area has variable pricing, running your dishwasher (or laundry) at 2 AM instead of 7 PM can cut your bill without any extra effort.
Most modern dishwashers have a delay-start option, so you don’t have to stay up late—just set it before bed. The same applies to washing machines and dryers. Shifting high-energy tasks to off-peak hours is an easy way to save money without changing your daily routine.
4. Stock Your Freezer with “Fake Takeout” Options
This one’s not the healthiest tip but such a big-saver!
Let me share my biggest work-from-home money drain from early 2020: **I was spending nearly $400 a month on food delivery**! Between busy workdays and Zoom fatigue, DoorDash became my default lunch plan.
Here’s what saved me: I started stocking my freezer with “emergency takeout alternatives.” Trust me, when you have restaurant-style options ready to go, you’ll think twice about paying $25 for delivered pad thai.
My go-to freezer stash includes:
- Trader Joe’s orange chicken (tastes just like Panda Express!)
- Frozen dumplings and wonton soup packs
- Pizza (doctored up with fresh toppings)
- Chicken wings with various sauces
- Indian curry meals
Now I treat delivery as a Friday reward or special occasion thing. This switch alone saves me about $250 monthly.
Pro tip: Keep a list of your favorite takeout meals and find frozen alternatives when they’re on sale.
And yes, it might not taste exactly the same as fresh delivery, but at a quarter of the price, it’s close enough for a random Wednesday lunch!
Just remember to actually eat what you buy – don’t let those “emergency meals” become freezer fossils!
8.Keep Your “Starbucks Fix” in the Kitchen
Working from home makes it way too easy to justify a quick Starbucks run—especially when you just need a reason to step outside. But those $6 lattes add up fast. The trick? Stock your kitchen with the exact drinks you’d order.
If you love iced lattes, get a good cold brew concentrate and your favorite creamer. More of a cappuccino person? A simple milk frother can do wonders. Even if you splurge on high-quality beans or syrups, it’s still cheaper than a daily coffee shop habit.
And for that need-to-get-out-of-the-house feeling? Take a walk without making it an excuse to spend money. Your wallet (and caffeine budget) will thank you.
9.Swap Your Desktop for a Laptop to Cut the Electric Bill
If you’re still using a desktop computer for remote work, you’re paying more for electricity than you need to. A laptop uses about 80% less energy than a traditional desktop setup, and with external monitors and docking stations, you won’t lose any functionality.
While you’re upgrading, switch to LED bulbs in your home office. They use 1/10th of the electricity of incandescent bulbs and last way longer. If you print a lot, consider a laser printer instead of an inkjet. The upfront cost is higher, but toner lasts much longer than ink cartridges, saving you money over time.
Small changes like these add up. When I swapped my desktop for a laptop, my electricity bill noticeably dropped. It’s an easy switch that saves money without changing how you work. Plus, laptops give you the freedom to work from anywhere—your couch, a coffee shop, or even outside when the weather’s nice.
10.Grow Your Own Lunch Veggies on the Windowsill
Buying fresh herbs and veggies every week adds up. Growing your own is cheaper, easier than you think, and way more satisfying. Even if you don’t have a yard, a sunny windowsill is enough to grow basil, cilantro, cherry tomatoes, or even snow peas.
Start small. Grab some free pots on Facebook Marketplace or reuse containers you already have. Most grocery store herbs can be regrown in water before transferring to soil. If you want to go all in, compost your kitchen scraps for free fertilizer and use a simple soap-and-water mix for pest control.
I started with basil and ended up with a whole windowsill of snacks. Fresh herbs make every meal better, and cherry tomatoes straight from the vine taste way better than store-bought. Plus, it’s nice to have something green in your workspace that doesn’t just sit there—it gives back.
11.Skip the $300/Month Coworking Membership
Coworking spaces like WeWork and Industrious charge anywhere from $250 to $600 per month for a desk—money that could go toward actual necessities. Unless you genuinely need a shared space for networking or meetings, working from home is the smarter financial move.
The biggest argument for coworking spaces is escaping distractions. But with a few adjustments—a dedicated workspace, noise-canceling headphones, and a solid routine—you can make home just as productive. If you miss the social aspect, hit up a coffee shop once a week or use your local library’s free workspace.
The reality? Most remote workers stop using coworking memberships after a few months because the cost doesn’t justify the benefit. Instead of spending $300+ per month on a desk you don’t need, invest in better home office equipment or pocket the savings. Your future self will thank you.
12. Create a DIY Childcare Schedule That Actually Works
Childcare is one of the biggest challenges for work-from-home parents, and full-time daycare can cost over $1,000 a month. Instead of expensive coworking spaces with childcare, consider part-time care during your most critical work hours. Many daycare centers offer half-day options, or you can swap childcare with another remote-working parent.
At home, set up a kid-friendly workspace with quiet-time activities like puzzles, audiobooks, or a tablet with educational apps. A foldable desk or a designated workspace helps keep boundaries clear. If your child is younger, scheduling naps or independent play around meetings can make a huge difference.
The key is flexibility—some days will be chaotic, but a structured routine helps. Communicate with your employer or clients about your availability, and don’t be afraid to adjust your schedule as needed. Saving money on childcare while keeping your sanity? That’s a work-from-home win.
13. Turn Dog-Walking into Your New “Commute”
Skip the dog walker and handle it yourself—you’ll save money and build a better routine for both you and your pup. Professional dog walking services can cost $15–$30 per walk, adding up fast. Walking your own dog not only eliminates that expense but also forces you to step away from your desk and reset.
This doubles as a “fake commute”—a simple habit that helps separate work and personal time. Before and after work, take a 10–20 minute walk around the block to mimic the transition you’d have if you worked in an office. It helps clear your head, set boundaries, and prevent burnout.
Bonus: You’ll get more steps in, soak up some sunlight, and improve focus. It’s an easy way to maintain structure in your day without the wasted time (or stress) of a real commute. Your dog will love it, and so will your productivity.
14. Block Shopping Sites During Work Hours
Working from home makes it way too easy to browse Amazon “just for a second”—and suddenly, you’ve spent $50 on things you don’t need.
Impulse shopping is a real problem when your laptop is your office & there’s basically no supervision.
The best solution? Block shopping sites during work hours. Use browser extensions like Cold Turkey, Freedom, or StayFocusd to limit access to sites like Amazon, Target, or Etsy. You can even set timers so you only allow shopping in the evenings or on weekends.
Another trick? Remove saved payment info from your browser. Having to manually enter your credit card details adds friction, making impulse buys less tempting.
If you tend to shop out of boredom, replace the habit. Keep a to-do list handy for when you feel distracted—whether it’s stretching, taking a short walk, or drinking water. A little self-control now means more money in your pocket later.
15. Make the Public Library Your “Second Office”
Need a change of scenery but don’t want to spend money at a coffee shop? Head to your local library instead.
Most public libraries offer free Wi-Fi, quiet workspaces, and even private study rooms—perfect for deep focus sessions or Zoom meetings. Plus, they’re temperature-controlled, so you’re not cranking up your AC or heat at home all day.
If you need a quick break, walk around, browse books, or grab a free newspaper instead of doom-scrolling on your phone. Some libraries even have free coffee stations or vending machines if you need a little pick-me-up.
Libraries aren’t just for solo work, either. Check if your library hosts free networking events or coworking days. It’s a great way to meet other remote workers without the hefty price tag of a coworking space.
Best of all? You won’t be tempted to overspend on lattes or pastries—your wallet (and productivity) will thank you.
16. Move Somewhere Cheaper (Since Location Doesn’t Matter)
If you’re not tied to a specific location, consider moving somewhere with a lower cost of living. Since you work remotely, you’re not stuck paying premium rent just to be close to an office.
States like Tennessee, North Carolina, Texas, and Idaho offer more affordable housing without sacrificing quality of life. Even within expensive states, moving to a smaller town instead of a major city can cut your housing costs in half.
The biggest advantage? If you’re earning a “big-city salary” while living in a lower-cost area, your money stretches further. You can save more, pay off debt, or afford a better home for the same price.
Of course, this isn’t for everyone. If you have strong ties to your current area—family, friends, or lifestyle preferences—moving might not be worth it. But if you’re open to a change, even relocating one state over could make a huge financial difference.
Before making the jump, research housing costs, internet reliability, and local amenities. And if possible, visit first—remote work is great, but you still want to enjoy where you live!
17. Program Your Thermostat Around Your Work Schedule
Small thermostat adjustments can lead to big savings. Lowering the temperature by just 1°C (about 2°F) can cut your energy bill by up to 10%.
Use a programmable thermostat to set the heat lower during work hours if you don’t mind bundling up. Layering clothes, using a heated blanket, or keeping a small space heater near your desk can keep you comfortable without heating the whole house.
If you leave home during the day, set the temperature lower when you’re out and have it warm up 30 minutes before you return. The same applies to nighttime—keeping the house cooler while you sleep can save money and improve sleep quality.
Keep windows closed, block drafts, and use thick curtains to keep warm air in during the winter (and cool air in during summer). Smart planning lets you stay comfortable without wasting money on heating or cooling.
18. Let Your Clothes Air-Dry While You Work
Skip the dryer and let your clothes air-dry while you work. It saves energy, reduces wear on fabrics, and lowers your electricity bill. Since you’re home all day, it’s easy to set up drying racks or hang clothes as soon as they’re washed.
If you’re short on space, use a shower rod or a foldable drying rack. Bathrooms are great for air-drying since they’re already designed to handle moisture. You can also hang clothes near a sunny window or a vent to speed up drying.
For heavier items like jeans and towels, give them a good shake and hang them with space in between for better airflow. If humidity is an issue, a small fan can help speed up the process.
By the time you’re done working for the day, your clothes will be dry—no extra effort required. It’s an easy, free way to cut down on energy costs.
19. Meal Prep on Sunday for Busy Days
Meal prepping on Sunday makes busy workdays so much easier. Instead of scrambling for lunch between meetings or resorting to expensive takeout, you’ll have healthy, ready-to-eat meals waiting for you.
The process is simple: Pick 2–3 main dishes, cook them in batches, and store them in portioned containers. Stick to meals that reheat well, like:
- Grilled chicken with roasted veggies and quinoa
- Stir-fry with rice and lean protein
- Pasta with a hearty sauce and side salad
- Soup or chili for easy reheating
Store meals in airtight containers and just heat them up in the microwave or on the stove when needed. Bonus: prepping snacks like cut-up fruits, veggies, and nuts makes healthy choices effortless.
If variety matters to you, use different seasonings or sauces to switch things up. Meal prepping saves time, money, and decision fatigue—so you can focus on work without worrying about what’s for lunch.
20. Create an “End of Workday” Shutdown Routine
An end-of-day routine doesn’t just help with work-life balance—it can also save you money. When you’re always “on,” you might keep the lights, computer, and heating/cooling running longer than necessary, leading to higher utility bills.
A simple shutdown routine can help:
- Turn off your computer and unplug unnecessary electronics to reduce energy costs.
- Adjust your thermostat to save on heating or cooling once work is done.
- Switch off extra lights—your home doesn’t need to be fully lit after work hours.
- Avoid late-night snacking by planning an after-work activity instead of heading straight to the fridge.
A clear cutoff time also helps prevent mindless online shopping or unnecessary food delivery orders that can happen when you’re still in “work mode.” Setting boundaries with work isn’t just good for your mental health—it’s also great for your wallet.
21. Start a “Lunch Club” with Other Remote Workers
Eating at home saves money, but it can get boring fast. A lunch club with other remote workers is a great way to switch things up without the high cost of eating out.
Find a few remote workers in your neighborhood and set up a rotating lunch schedule. Each person takes a turn hosting a simple, home-cooked meal—think sandwiches, pasta, or soup. You’ll spend less on groceries, reduce food waste, and get some much-needed social time.
Not into hosting? Meet at a park or do virtual lunch calls instead.
You can still share meal ideas, recipe hacks, and even bulk-cook together to save time and money.
Remote work can be isolating, but a lunch club keeps costs low and motivation high. Plus, when you’re accountable to others, you’re less likely to order overpriced takeout.
To Wrap It Up
Saving money while working from home isn’t about extreme sacrifices—it’s about making small, smart adjustments that add up over time.
From tweaking your insurance to rethinking your lunch habits, every little change helps you keep more cash in your pocket.
The key is to be intentional with your spending and take advantage of the flexibility remote work offers.
With a few strategic shifts, you can work comfortably, stay productive, and still save a ton.