There's nothing like the unexpected surprise of finding a $10 bill in an old jacket pocket. It's like free money, so spending it doesn't count, right?

If spending your money on *all* the local meals and events is your specialty (like us), let's explore another way to rack up "free money" — a local unlimited cash back checking account. (Read: More tacos at Taquitos West Ave. City Editor Iván recommends the al pastor tacos with the house-made salsa.)

Enjoy exclusive $hopping Rewards™ offers + discounts at thousands of leading online retailers by using the customized portal. | Photo provided by United Texas Credit Union

When it comes to hands-off hacks to saving, earning cash back can often fly under the radar. United Texas Credit Union members with an Ultimate Checking account can earn unlimited .5% cash back on all signature-based debit card purchases automatically, every month. Plus, there are no caps or minimums to worry about. Read: The more tacos you buy (er, transactions you make), the more money you get back in your account.

Bonus: When you sign up for an Ultimate Checking account, you can have a personalized card in your hand before you walk out the door. 💳

Ultimate Checking benefits:

Direct deposit: Get paid up to two days early.
Free online bill pay: Pay who you want, when you want.
IDProtect®: Get protected from identity theft with credit file monitoring, ID theft expense reimbursement coverage, and resolution services.
Cell phone protection: Receive up to $400 of replacement or repair costs if your mobile phone is stolen or damaged. Pro tip: You’re covered for up to four devices when you pay your phone bill using your Ultimate Checking account or your United Texas Platinum Mastercard.
Rideshare protection: Benefit from up to $100,000 of AD&D coverage (read: a type of life insurance) and $10,000 of accident medical expense benefits if injured while traveling in a rideshare vehicle. Bonus: You also have up to $250 for personal property benefits when you pay for the rideshare with your Ultimate Checking account.
$hopping Rewards™: Enjoy exclusive offers and discounts at thousands of online retailers using United Texas Credit Union's customized shopping portal.
Health discount savings: Save on vision, prescriptions, and dental services.

Whatever your financial goals are this year, unlimited cash back just makes cents.*