14 Signs You're Actually Cheap Instead of Frugal

Building your long-term wealth strategy means always looking for opportunities to save more money. Living a frugal lifestyle is one of the best ways to lower your financial stress and pile up the dollars.

But some people aren’t frugal. Instead, they're simply cheap, usually at the expense of someone else. If you're guilty of any of the following habits, take note: You've probably crossed a line.

1. You skip things that are important just to save money

While it’s a good idea to avoid wasting money on the things you want or on special events, skipping them altogether isn’t wise.

If you decide not to go out with friends — or even to birthday parties — just to save $20, you’ll probably regret it. Your friends and family are worth a small splurge once in a while.

2. You refuse to tip appropriately

People in the service industry rely on tips to supplement their pay. Refusing to tip appropriately isn't just cheap; it’s downright disrespectful.

Try accounting for tips in your budget when you go out to eat, order delivery, or visit the spa. Plan financially for these expenses and view them as special, occasional treats.

That way, you can afford to tip appropriately and avoid being a cheapskate.

3. You overindulge in free samples at Costco and elsewhere

Everyone loves free stuff. For example, one of the great Costco hacks is indulging in free samples. But taking more than your share isn’t a good look.

Feel free to sample the wares, but do so with class. Don’t try to load up on a sample simply so you can skip your next meal and save a buck.

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4. You grab more than 1 treat from the free candy bowl

It’s a nice gesture when restaurants and other businesses offer free chocolate, hard candy, or mints. But taking more than one is bad form.

It might even mean someone else will have to go without. The business might decide it’s just too expensive and stop providing the freebies.

Pro tip: If a lack of savings is turning you into a cheapskate, perhaps it is time to make some extra money . A part-time job or side hustle can help you build a cash cushion that might reduce the risk of sliding from frugal to cheap.

5. You take creamer cups and condiment packets from restaurants

It might seem harmless, but taking condiment packets and creamer cups from restaurants can hurt the businesses you like so much.

Besides, you would need to take a hefty amount of these single-serving packets to equal a full-size bottle. You’re probably not even saving $1.

6. You go dumpster diving

You might think of dumpster diving as searching through garbage cans for food. But people dumpster dive for all sorts of things — everything from tires and toys to electronic gadgets.

Rather than take someone else's garbage for free, check out your local thrift stores. You might pay a few dollars, but you’ll avoid all those germs. You will probably feel better about yourself, too.

7. You complain about items and services just to get a discount

Don’t be that cheapskate who complains just to save money. When you complain, you could damage an employee’s reputation. It might even result in the employee losing their job.

If the complaint is legitimate, it is fine to raise it. But don’t stretch the truth just to save a buck.

8. You pretend to forget your wallet when dining with friends

Getting your friends to pay just because you don’t want to is a crass move. And this cheapskate ploy is something you should avoid.

Of course, it is possible to honestly forget your wallet. If that happens, pay your friend back promptly so you don’t ruin the relationship.

9. You buy things, use them, and then return them

Buying something with the intention of returning it is a cheap, dishonest practice. It can also come with extra costs for you. Some companies charge restocking and return-shipping fees, for example.

When you return items at the store, remember that you are wasting time and gas. It’s better — and more ethical — not to go down this road.

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10. You steal supplies from work

Stealing from work is wrong — and it could get you fired. Those pens just aren’t worth the risk.

If your boss decides to keep you around, you’ll probably still feel the consequences. You shouldn’t expect a decent raise or promotion anytime soon.

11. You lie to get a discount

Many places offer reduced prices for seniors, children, and students. Unfortunately, not everyone is honest.

Some companies might require adults to verify their age. But others do not, and being required to prove a child’s age is even less common.

You can tell a cheapskate lie to save a little money, or you can save your kids and yourself the embarrassment and tell the truth.

12. You buy low-quality items because they’re cheaper

Sure, you'll spend a little less money at checkout when you buy cheap items. But they probably won’t last as long as quality pieces. That means you’ll have to replace them, and you might spend even more money in the long run.

And don’t forget about disposal costs. Throwing away large pieces of furniture isn’t cheap. Save yourself the hassle — and the money — and buy something good from the start.

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13. You avoid going to the doctor

Medical appointments can be costly, especially if you don’t have quality health insurance. But skipping out on preventative care might cost you more than just your health.

When illnesses go untreated or undiagnosed, they can progress and lead to much more expensive medical bills down the road.

14. You ask for discounts from family and friends

Supporting your friend’s small business is a great thing to do. But asking them to give you a discount is not. It’s just cheap.

Your friends shouldn’t have to charge less than they’re worth just because you know them and want to keep more money in your bank account.

Bottom line

Keep looking for ways to cut costs, but don’t turn into a cheapskate. You could ruin friendships and might even end up spending more money.

Create a budget, take advantage of reward programs, and cut unnecessary costs instead.

Unplug items when they’re not in use, cancel unused subscriptions, and crush your debt . You might save more money — and you will keep your dignity intact — if you make the switch from cheap to frugal.

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