Paying $14.99 for something you used twice last month? At Simply Decided we don’t do guilt, we do cost-per-use. If it costs less than $5 per use and you actually use it, keep it. If it costs more than $10 per use, cancel it. Here’s the 30-second test.
The 30-Second Verdict: If your cost-per-use is under $5 and you used it 4+ times last month, keep it. If your cost-per-use is over $10, or you only used it 0–2 times, cancel it immediately. Use the calculator below to get your exact numbers.
How to Calculate Cost Per Use
| Subscription | Monthly Cost | Times Used | Cost Per Use | Verdict |
| Netflix | $15.99 | 10 | $1.60 | Keep |
| Gym | $50 | 2 | $25.00 | Cancel |
| Spotify | $11.99 | 25 | $0.48 | Keep |
Formula: Monthly Cost ÷ Times Used Last Month = Cost Per Use
The 30-Second Subscription Tool
Educational estimate only. Based on YOUR monthly cost and times used last month you enter. Cost per use = Monthly Cost ÷ Times Used. Ignores annual plans, family sharing, contracts, cancel fees, and free alternatives. Your usage may vary.
When to Keep It
- Under $5 per use
- Used 4+ times last month without forcing yourself
- You would miss it tomorrow if it was gone
- There is no free alternative you actually use
When to Cancel It
- Over $10 per use
- 0-2 uses last month
- You forgot you had it
- Free version does 90% of what you need
FAQ
Q: What if I use it seasonally?
Keep if you use it 3 months in a row, cancel in off-months. Most allow pause.
Q: What about annual plans?
Divide annual cost by 12 first, then do cost per use. Annual gym $600 ÷12 = $50/mo.
Next: Fix budget or start over? | Rent vs buy?
Disclaimer: Educational only, not financial advice. Talk to a qualified financial advisor about your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the $5 rule?
If a subscription costs less than $5 per use and you actually use it, keep it — if it costs more than $10 per use, cancel it.
How do I calculate cost per use?
Divide the monthly cost by the number of times you used it last month — for example, $15.99 ÷ 10 uses = $1.60 per use, which is a keep.
When should I cancel immediately?
If your cost per use is over $10, you only used it 0–2 times last month, or you forgot you had it.
When should I ignore this rule and talk to a professional?
The calculator ignores contracts, cancel fees, and family sharing — so talk to a qualified financial advisor if fees or contracts complicate the decision.
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