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Inflation can feel relentless. The punishing cost of groceries, gas, utilities, and extras (we're looking at you, airfare) seems to leave less and less breathing room at the end of the month.

And even though nobody wants to spend more, sometimes we just don't have the time — or mental energy — to obsess over coupons or budget apps.

So how can you keep more of your paycheck even when you have zero time to think? Here are five low-effort ways to cut your bills even when you're feeling overwhelmed:

1. Switch to annual billing. If cash flow isn't a problem, paying for subscriptions or memberships by the year rather than the month is one way to get the exact same thing for less money.

With an annual subscription to YouTube Premium, for example, you'd pay $159.99 per year instead of $191.88 with a $15.99 monthly subscription, saving 17%. On Amazon Prime, the annual plan comes with a 23% discount. And if you're trying to level up a skill (like your Spanish) Super Duolingo is 43% cheaper with an annual plan, at $95.99 instead of $167.88 with a monthly subscription.

Make sure you can get a prorated refund if you cancel early so there's no chance you'll erase the savings.

2. Hit ‘pause. Speaking of monthly memberships and subscriptions, if you have some you don't use all that regularly, you can avoid the hassle of cancelling (and perhaps re-establishing them later,) by pausing or freezing them temporarily. Whether it's a streaming service, an app, a gym, or a newspaper, pausing removes the pressure to decide and gives you the chance to see how much you miss it. Just make sure to put the cancel-by date on your calendar before the pause is scheduled to lift.

3. Use those free loyalty programs. Signing up for a free loyalty program can be a no-brainer, depending on your willingness to give some basic personal information.

Most grocery stores simply require signing up once with your name and phone number. After that, entering your phone number (or having the cashier scan a bar code in your e-wallet or on your keychain) gets you all the sale prices and/or access to digital coupons or other rewards. Same goes for gas stations, pharmacy chains, theaters, pet stores, and more.

Many fast-food chains and retailers also offer online/in-app loyalty programs. And then there are miles and point programs for airlines, hotels, and clothing retailers, which you can usually belong to whether you have a branded credit card with them or not. The key is to choose free ones that are hassle-free. You might even get a decent-sized discount just for signing up.

4. Make it a game. Do you love Candy Crush Saga or watching Jeopardy? With some reframing, spending less money can be a fun mental exercise that taps into your competitive side and requires no time at all. Make your plan in the shower or while you're exercising.

Challenge yourself to forgo one higher-cost item you usually indulge in (a high-end organic item at the grocery store or an expensive hair conditioner.) Or, consider what you love about that discretionary spend and try a similar experience for less. If it's going out with friends, could you trade in a cocktail for a beer?

Other ideas:

•   Try a pantry challenge: How long can you get by without buying any new non-perishable foods?

•   Skip the small toy reward every time you take your (hopefully cooperative) toddler to Walmart.

•   Take the subway or bus instead of using a ride-hailing app.

Maybe set a point value for each success and see if you can best your score each month. Or challenge your partner to a contest: Who can get more points by the end of the week?

5. Ask about discounts. Discounts apply to more than just seniors. When you're scoping out entertainment or other activities — movies, museums, amusement parks or even national parks — check to see if you qualify for discounted admission rates because of your job, where you live, or anything else. Same goes for restaurants, retailers, airlines and hotel chains. You never know when being a veteran or servicemember, a student or teacher, or living in a specific city or county, could save you money. But you have to ask.

Please understand that this information provided is general in nature and shouldn’t be construed as a recommendation or solicitation of any products offered by SoFi’s affiliates and subsidiaries. In addition, this information is by no means meant to provide investment or financial advice, nor is it intended to serve as the basis for any investment decision or recommendation to buy or sell any asset. Keep in mind that investing involves risk, and past performance of an asset never guarantees future results or returns. It’s important for investors to consider their specific financial needs, goals, and risk profile before making an investment decision.

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