So, you're curious about how much you've spent on Amazon this year? It's understandable! Amazon is a treasure trove of goods, and it's easy to lose track of spending. Fortunately, seeing your total spending isn't as difficult as you might think. This guide will walk you through several methods to check your Amazon spending in 2023.
Finding Your Amazon Spending Summary: Step-by-Step Guides
There's no single, readily available "Total Spent" figure on the Amazon homepage. However, you can access this information through different avenues, depending on your preferred method and the level of detail you require.
Method 1: Checking Your Order History
This is the most straightforward method. Your order history provides a comprehensive list of all your purchases, allowing you to calculate your total expenditure manually or use a spreadsheet for a quicker overview.
Steps:
- Log in: Access your Amazon account.
- Go to Orders: Navigate to "Your Orders" (usually found under "Accounts & Lists").
- Filter (Optional): You can filter by date range to see spending for specific periods within 2023 (e.g., January-March, April-June, etc.). This makes calculating your total for specific quarters much easier.
- Review and Calculate: Go through your order list. Note down the total for each order. Sum these totals to get your overall spending. For a large number of orders, using a spreadsheet program like Excel or Google Sheets is highly recommended.
Pros: Detailed breakdown of each purchase. Cons: Requires manual calculation for the total, time-consuming for many orders.
Method 2: Utilizing Third-Party Apps and Websites (Use with Caution)
Several third-party apps and websites claim to connect with Amazon and provide spending summaries. However, exercise caution when using these. Always ensure they're reputable and securely handle your Amazon login credentials. Compromising your account details can have serious consequences. Research thoroughly before using any such service.
Pros: Potentially automated summary. Cons: Security risks if using unreliable apps; Privacy concerns; may not be completely accurate.
Method 3: Tracking Your Spending Manually (Proactive Approach)
To avoid the hassle of calculating later, consider proactively tracking your Amazon spending throughout the year. You can use a simple spreadsheet, a budgeting app, or even a notebook.
Pros: Provides a real-time understanding of your spending habits. Cons: Requires discipline and consistent effort.
Tips for Managing Your Amazon Spending
Understanding your Amazon spending is just the first step. Managing it effectively is equally important. Here are some tips:
- Set a Budget: Before making purchases, determine how much you can afford to spend on Amazon each month.
- Use Amazon's Lists: Create wish lists and shopping lists to organize your desired items and avoid impulse buys.
- Take Advantage of Coupons and Deals: Amazon frequently offers discounts and promotions. Utilize these to save money.
- Review Your Spending Regularly: Check your order history monthly or quarterly to track your spending and identify areas where you can cut back.
Conclusion
Determining your total Amazon spending for 2023 is achievable through different methods. Choosing the best approach depends on your comfort level with technology and your desire for detailed information. Remember to prioritize your account security and practice responsible spending habits. Knowing your spending empowers you to make informed financial decisions moving forward.
