17 Once-Free Things That Now Cost You Monthly
These everyday services and conveniences used to be free, but now they drain your bank account every month.
- Chris Graciano
- 3 min read
Remember when checking your credit score or watching TV didn’t come with a bill? Many once-free perks have slowly turned into recurring expenses we hardly notice. This list uncovers 17 things that used to be complimentary but now come with a monthly fee.
1. TV Streaming Services
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Free channels ruled the living room — just plug in a set of rabbit ears. Now, you’re juggling subscriptions for Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and more.
2. Tap Water at Restaurants
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It used to come automatically, no questions asked. Nowadays, some eateries subtly charge for “filtered” or “bottled” tap water.
3. Checking Your Credit Score
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Once a free perk from banks or credit agencies, checking your credit score is now often hidden behind paywalls. Many services charge monthly for “premium monitoring.”
4. GPS Navigation
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Car maps used to be free with your vehicle, or you used a paper map for nothing. Now, apps like Waze and Google Maps offer paid upgrades or ad-free experiences.
5. Cloud Storage
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Back in the early internet days, file storage was just part of the package. Now, you get a measly few gigabytes for free before monthly charges kick in.
6. Tech Support
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In the past, customer service came standard with your product. Today, many companies charge monthly for “priority” or “extended” tech support.
7. Email Services
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Free email was once truly free — no limits, no strings. Now, premium inboxes offer ad-free experiences, extra space, and tools… for a fee.
8. Software Updates
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Once included with the original purchase, updates now often come with a recurring subscription. Many apps and design programs have moved to monthly licensing.
9. News and Articles
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Newspapers and magazines used to sit on the coffee table. Today, most reputable news outlets hide content behind paywalls.
10. Ride-Share Memberships
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First, it was pay-per-ride — simple and clean. Now, Uber and Lyft promote monthly memberships for lower fees, better pickups, or reduced surcharges.
11. In-App Game Features
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Remember when a video game was a one-time purchase? Today’s mobile games offer power-ups, new levels, and ad-free play — all subscription-based. Pay to win or just pay to enjoy.
12. Online Dating
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Meeting someone online used to be free and simple. Now, most apps restrict matches or messages unless you upgrade.
13. Gym Workout Plans
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Basic memberships used to include access to personal trainers or class programs. Now, many gyms charge extra for custom workouts or virtual coaching.
14. Home Security Monitoring
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Alarms and cameras were once installed and done. Now, monthly fees cover everything from cloud footage storage to emergency dispatch.
15. Ad-Free Content
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Websites, videos, and podcasts — they all want a cut to remove the ads. It’s no longer just about the content; it’s about buying your time back.
16. Smartphone Features
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Services like voicemail transcription, call recording, and spam blocking used to be standard or free apps. Now, they’re bundled into “pro” packages with monthly costs.
17. Music Streaming
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Radio was free, and CDs were a one-time cost. Now, streaming platforms charge a monthly fee to skip ads, download songs, or even play what you want.