10 Money Saving Tips that Can Help Now
We all would like to save a little money, no consensus needed. Unfortunately, any money saving remedies and frugalities, such as refinancing your home, debt consolidation, trading in your gas guzzler for a hybrid, and reassessing your savings goals are a process and it usually takes time to see the savings. These are designed to save money in the long run. I wanna save NOW! Here are 10 quick tips to get you going right away.
- Challenge yourself. Pick a week to grocery shop and eat in the entire week. Be sure to shop smart and plan for leftovers, this might be able to carry over the weekend! Don't forget to use coupons!
- Buy fresh fruits and vegetables for snacks instead of processed, pre-packaged foods. They are cheaper and much better for you.
- Turn the thermostat down by 3-4 degrees. Does your house really need to be at 76 degrees? Probably not. Do a comparison with last month’s bill and you should see an energy savings on your next bill.
- Borrow from friends. If you have a shindig to attend and need a new outfit, the kids need school clothes, or you must bake something special that requires odd utensils, borrow them! Saves you a bundle not having to buy them yourself. If you absolutely must buy, try discount stores or sites like eBay.
- Cut down to only two coffees/sodas a week. If you are an avid drinker, you probably drink 2-4 cups/cans a day. Imagine… 2 cups a day x $1.50 each= $3.00 daily, $21 weekly, and $84 monthly potential savings! This doesn’t even include higher priced lattes and cappuccinos. If these numbers are different for you, do the math by plugging in your own numbers and see your immediate savings. Not to mention your health savings!
- Analyze your bills. Do you really need that extra cable package? Do you really require 1,000 minutes plus unlimited internet and a million picture and text messages on your cell phone plan? Do you use your landline? Is your car insurance over the top? Give your service providers a call and ask for the latest and greatest specials for additional discounts.
- Scrap your gym membership. Take a jog, hike, or walk around the block. Plan to meet with friends and set up a fitness routine together. Monthly gym memberships range anywhere from $15-$50. This doesn’t even include the initial membership fees.
- Get a piggy bank, use it! Put all of your loose change in it daily. Count it at the end of each month. You will be surprised at how much you can accumulate!
- Pay your bills online. Save paper, time, and the cost of multiple stamps. This service is FREE! Check with your bank.
- Sell something on eBay. Pay yourself back for all of your hard work at cutting back. You are bound to have something lying around the house that someone on our planet would want. Stuff your earnings into a savings account. Voila!
