Free Tools & Calculators
Free, private calculators and planners that run right in your browser — no sign-up needed.
Every tool on Hard Times Helper is free. Your numbers stay in your browser — we don’t ask for your name, email or bank info to use them.
Browse the full list below, or use the most popular calculators right here on this page.
All tools
What Do I Need Help With? Quiz
Answer a few quick questions and get pointed to the right help first.
Learn more →State-by-State Help Directory
Find unemployment, SNAP, Medicaid and utility help for your state.
Learn more →Scam Checker
Paste a suspicious message or offer and check it against common scam signs.
Learn more →Bill Cutter
Find which of your monthly bills have the most room to shrink.
Learn more →Grocery Budget Planner
Set a realistic grocery budget for your household.
Learn more →The $100 Challenge
Track small wins until you’ve saved your first $100.
Learn more →Discount Finder
See discounts you may qualify for as a senior, veteran, student or low-income household.
Learn more →Gas Trip Cost Calculator
Estimate fuel cost for any trip or commute.
Learn more →EV vs. Gas Calculator
Compare the running costs of electric and gas vehicles.
Learn more →Side Hustle Calculator
See your true take-home after gas, fees and taxes.
Learn more →Income Stream Planner
Map out new income streams and your monthly goal.
Learn more →Credit Roadmap
Get a personalized, step-by-step credit improvement plan.
Learn more →Debt Snowball & Avalanche
See your debt-free date and compare payoff methods.
Learn more →Inflation Calculator
See how rising prices affect your budget and savings.
Learn more →Relocation Cost Calculator
Compare costs before moving to a cheaper city or country.
Learn more →Savings Calculator
See what small, regular savings can add up to over time.
Learn more →AI Prompt Library
Copy-ready prompts to use AI for budgets, letters and job searches.
Learn more →AIHard Times AI Helper
Ask money-saving questions and get plain-language answers.
Learn more →Debt Snowball & Avalanche Calculator
Debt Snowball & Avalanche Planner
List your debts, add any extra you can pay, and see your payoff order and debt-free date.
An estimate only. Assumes fixed rates, no new charges, and interest charged monthly. Saved in this browser only.
Side Hustle Calculator
Side Hustle True Pay Calculator
Gig pay looks different after miles, fees and taxes. Find your real hourly rate.
Cost per mile covers gas, wear and depreciation. Compare with the current IRS standard mileage rate at irs.gov. Tax needs vary; a tax pro or VITA volunteer can help.
Inflation Calculator
Inflation Calculator
See what today's prices could look like in the future and what your savings may be worth.
This uses a steady rate you choose. Check the latest Consumer Price Index at bls.gov for current inflation.
Savings Calculator
Store Brand Savings Calculator
See how much switching from name brands to store brands could save you in a year.
| Category | Weekly name-brand spend ($) | Expected savings (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Pantry staples (cereal, pasta, canned) | ||
| Dairy & eggs | ||
| Over-the-counter medicine | ||
| Cleaning & paper goods | ||
| Personal care (shampoo, soap) |
Store brands are often 20–30% cheaper, but it varies by store and item. Compare the unit price on the shelf tag. For medicine, compare the active ingredients.
Gas Trip Cost Calculator
Gas Trip Cost Calculator
Know what a drive will cost before you go, and how to split it fairly.