That extra bump can feel like a relief, until you remember how quickly higher prices can swallow it. A COLA increase helps, but it doesn’t automatically translate into more breathing room unless you tell it where to go. The best strategy is using a few small, repeatable moves that lower your monthly “must-pay” bills first. Then you can use what’s left for comfort, savings, or a little fun without guilt. Here are ten practical ways to make the raise last longer all year.
