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DON'T WASTE YOUR MONEY: Amazon's Subscribe and Save program comes with a catch

Posted at 11:00 PM, Sep 16, 2016
and last updated 2016-09-17 02:55:43-04

Millions of people shop Amazon because it's so convenient, and it usually has lower prices than most stores. But sometimes that's not the case, and you may be paying more. 13 Action News shows a catch with one Amazon program, so you Don't Waste Your Money.

The newest way to shop for things you buy over and over again is with Amazon's Subscribe and Save program. It automatically refills your orders for staples like detergent and trash bags. Sure, that means no more running out of detergent and no more empty toilet paper holder.
 
But a new report claims there's a catch that could be costly. Subscribe and Save is similar to a Netflix subscription. But there's one big difference: the cost is not always the same.
 
The New York Times says prices of staples change daily on Amazon. And that's leading to sticker shock, if you re-order on the wrong day. For example: Folgers Coffee was $6 in June. Then it jumped to $12 in August. And then back down to $7 in September. Unfortunately, you can't lock in a fixed rate with Amazon's Subscribe and Save program. 
 
The New York Times says Amazon's prices vary according to supply and demand. So you're at the mercy of their computer algorithms.
 
There's no doubt Subscribe and Save is convenient. But if you're looking to save your money, the only real option is to skip the automatic refills and buy the items manually, while the price is right. Otherwise, watch your credit card statement for unexpected price hikes.