Money mistakes can sneak into your life without you even noticing. Patricia Stallworth, a certified financial planner (CFP) and the founder of PS Worth LLC, knows exactly how fast they add up.

The good news? Some of the most common money mistakes are so easy to fix, you could knock them out during a coffee break.

Stop Falling for the ‘Subscription Trap’

First up: The subscription trap. You have probably signed up for a “free” trial that morphed into a $15 monthly charge you forgot about. Stallworth says subscription services are sneaky because they are designed to slip under your radar.

Instead of letting them drain your wallet, check your bank and credit card statements every month. Cut anything you don’t use. You are not saving money by “keeping it for later.” You are just wasting cash.

Automate Your Savings Before You Spend It

Another money mistake that is too common? Not automating your savings. Stallworth points out that “I’ll transfer it later” almost always turns into “I spent it already.”

Set it up once through your bank or employer. Even $25 a week grows faster than you think. It is more like setting a trap for your future wealth, not your wallet.

Don’t Let Money Sit Idle in a Checking Account

Keeping too much money in your checking account sounds smart, but it is not. Stallworth explains that money sitting idle loses value over time. Inflation eats at it. Plus, it is way too easy to spend when it is just sitting there.

Move extra cash into a savings account that earns interest. You will make your money work for you instead of letting it snooze.

Turn Off Overdraft Protection and Save Big

Turning off overdraft protection might seem scary at first, but Stallworth says it is a major win. Banks love it when you “accidentally” overdraw your account because they collect fees.

It is instant feedback that helps you stay on top of your balance and avoid fees that add up fast.

Pick the Right Credit Card for Your Life

Finally, using the wrong credit card is a money mistake that is easier to fix than you think. Stallworth advises checking if your card actually rewards you for the way you spend. If it doesn’t, swap it.

There are cards that pay you back for groceries, gas, travel, and even streaming services. Why leave free money on the table? Picking the right card can turn your everyday spending into actual savings without lifting a finger.

Small Money Fixes Can Go a Long Way

Money mistakes don’t have to be big disasters to hurt you. The little ones add up over time. Patricia Stallworth shows that fixing these slip-ups is not rocket science. It is about noticing them, taking five minutes to act, and letting those small wins build real change.

The best part is that you don’t need a complete financial overhaul to get back on track. Fixing a few small money mistakes today sets you up for bigger wins tomorrow. Less money leaking out of your account means more money growing in it. And honestly, who doesn’t want that?