A consumer alert about ways you could be wasting your hard-earned cash.  Six News’ Consumer Investigator, Robin Taylor, uncovered 10 common things people do that are real money wasters. 

Our first big money waster starts at the ATM.

When you use a bank outside of your ATM network you're charged $3 to $5 a transaction. Do that often enough and you could waste up to $500 a year.

Another money waster, according to the consumer credit counseling service, is lottery tickets.  Players often spend $500 to $1,000 a year with nothing to show for it. 

Gourmet coffee is another money waster.  On average, Americans spend $8 or more every time the visit a coffee shop.  You're better off brewing at home.

Smoking is another expensive habit. The average smoker wastes more than $3,300 a year on cigarettes.  

Watch out for impulse infomercial buys.  That $19.95 purchase often ends up unused or it's ineffective. 

Unless you're using coupons, brand name groceries could be another money waster.  Buying store brands could save you up to $50 a month.  

Eating out is another big money waster. Sure we all need a break sometimes, but the average American spends more than $2,300 dining out each year. 

If you had good intentions, but your new year's resolution to get in shape went unfulfilled, then you're wasting money on that unused gym membership. 

One last tip:  watch out for daily deals from places like Living Social or Groupon that you'll never cash in.