“Get a little help, go a long way.”
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You seemingly have a lot to do when you don’t make enough to pay someone to do things for you. Like, cleaning your house, doing your taxes or grocery shopping. The easy thinking is you have to do this yourself. The more thoughtful reality is that paying someone else to do this for you could pay back dividends in time and quality of life.
A recent Harvard study revealed that outsourcing chores could increase a person’s happiness as much as an $18,000 raise. That’s a lot of joy from not doing laborious tasks, like home repairs, cleaning your house or doing your taxes. The important thing to remember is that you can spend your time on activities that bring you joy rather than those that make you sad or annoyed.
Check out these 4 simple ways to spend money and save time while making yourself happier:
Home Repairs
Companies like HomeServe can handle your plumbing, electrical, HVAC system repairs (and more). Not only will you have a certified professional handling important jobs in your home, but you’ll be able to spend time with your family or friends at the same time.
House Cleaning
For some people, cleaning makes them happy. If that’s you, Dad, then go for it! If you’re like us, however, cleaning our home just brings us down. You can use TaskRabbit or Thumbtack for everyday house and outdoor cleaning. They even handle large projects, like tree trimming and roof repair. Get down from up there, and kick up your feet while a pro takes care of the work for you.
Tax Preparer
No one likes taxes. The bad news: they’re not going anywhere. The only things that are certain in this world are death and taxes. The good news: you don’t have to do them. Get premier online tools and full-service tax preparation with trusted, low-cost companies like TurboTax, H&R Block or TaxAct. You can also use a CPA (Certified Public Accountant) in your area which can make you feel more comfortable since they’re right around the corner, although they may cost more. Here are Pros and Cons of each service:
TurboTax Premier
Cost: $89 for federal, $59 per state
| PROS | CONS |
| Most intuitive interface | Most expensive of web-based options |
| HIghest rated of web-based options | |
| In-depth expert support |
H&R Block Premier
Cost: $44 for federal, $37 per state
| PROS | CONS |
| Best guarantee of correct tax filing | Mediocre user experience |
| In-person options | |
| Customer service for online subscribers |
TaxAct Premier Service
Cost: $26 for federal, $33 per state
| PROS | CONS |
| Lowest cost of all options | Least intuitive user experience |
CPA
Cost: Varies from $200-1,500
| PROS | CONS |
| Able to meet in-person | Most expensive of all options |
| Local meaning they have reputation to uphold | |
| Typically provide the most attention |
Meal & Grocery Delivery
It’s important to eat. More importantly, to dine well with those you love. Don’t sacrifice making nourishing food that tastes good. Americans spend an average of 37 minutes preparing, cooking and cleaning up after dinner everyday. It’s worthwhile to find a service to deliver your dinner or the ingredients to make it yourself. When we order from the right place we get just what we want and need. These are a few of the best options to go for:
Instacart
Cost:
| PROS | CONS |
| Available in almost every city | Less accessible in rural areas |
| Groceries, restaurants and more | Some price increases over store price |
Boost (by Kroger)
Cost:
| PROS | CONS |
| Trust-worthy delivery | Must buy from Kroger grocers |
| Save on gas, too | |
| Inexpensive |
Purple Carrot
Cost:
| PROS | CONS |
| Plant-based (for vegetarians) | Limited options available |
| Wide-range of options | Not fully organic |
| Seasonal, fresh |
Hello Fresh
Cost:
| PROS | CONS |
| Highest-rated among peers | Not a lot of options |
| Cost-comparative to peers | Lack robust keto and vegan options |
| Trustworthy delivery | May require extensive kitchen accessories use |
