Many people like the idea of doing things on their own. After all, personal attributes like independence and autonomy are thought of highly in the western world. Although it’s great to be able to do things on your own, we should also rely on others around us. Not only can others make our lives easier and increase our quality of life, they also have the ability to increase our chances of experiencing success, decrease various costs, and much more.
Class Action Lawsuits and Mass Torts
Going to court isn’t a decision you should take lightly. It can be extremely expensive and time consuming without any guarantee of experiencing a positive outcome in your case.
It isn’t always possible, but if there are others who have the same experience that you do, you may want to find a way to be part of a class action lawsuit or a mass tort.
There are some differences between a class action lawsuit and a mass tort, but both rely on multiple plaintiffs to make their cases. For example, class action lawsuits can ensure large companies are held accountable for wrongdoing, while mass torts enable plaintiffs to hold others accountable, while still ensuring their individual stories are heard.
Because there are so many people involved, the defendant is more likely to pay attention and make changes than if it was just a single person attempting to bring them to court, especially since some class action lawsuits and mass torts make it onto the news.
Insurance
Insurance can be expensive. Although it isn’t always the case, sometimes, purchasing insurance within a group can help you save money.
For example, getting health insurance in a group can help you save money and/or provide you with a wider range of coverage. However, it is important for you to compare plans with your employer as well as individual plans. The kind of coverage you need will depend on whether you can save on group or individual health insurance.
Other types of insurance that you may be able to save on if you purchase with a group or with others at work include life insurance and worker’s comp insurance.
Group Buying
Group buying can be a great way to save money! The easiest way to take advantage of group buying savings is to get together with others to take advantage of a group discount. You’ll find this kind of discount at places like amusement parks and zoos, but you can also get this benefit with:
- Cell phone companies
- Airlines
- Resorts
- Lawn care companies
- Cruise lines
And more
You don’t necessarily have to know the other people in the group you’re buying with. For example, sites like Groupon and LivingSocial allow you to take advantage of group buying rates, even if you don’t know the other people who are making purchases.
Membership Warehouse
Membership warehouses are a great way to save, as long as you play your cards right. It usually costs money to join a membership warehouse, but if you buy in bulk and shop there frequently, it’s well-worth the money.
You may also find additional benefits at your warehouse club that you didn’t expect like:
- Free hearing tests and discounted hearing aids
- Low-cost prescription drugs
- Reduced rates on roadside assistance
- Tech support
Warehouse clubs like Costco and Sam’s Club are the most popular, but you should also look into local resources that may be available to you, depending on your job or other affiliations. For example, professional designers may have access to design supply warehouses, while teachers may have access to educator membership warehouses.
Saving Circles
Get together with friends and family to save and you can watch your money grow. Saving with a romantic partner is a great way to save and earn interest, like saving for retirement, for example.
You can also find apps like Twine and Tanda that make you more accountable for what you’re saving so you aren’t tempted to spend, all without having to know the other people personally.
Of course, you can always join a local community credit union. Some even pay you money based on certain activities, like paying a loan or using your debit card.
Doing things by yourself can be faster and more convenient, but that doesn’t mean it’s better! There are many instances where getting together with a group of people can increase your chances of success and help you save money, but they can also make you feel better simply by knowing you aren’t alone.