For many of us, money is tight. We need to save whenever and where ever we can.
Although it isn't always easy, the proper tips can always make it a little easier, and
a little less complicated.
Shopping -
1) Comparison shop and use coupons. This way you can always get the best value for your
money. When you do your shopping online you can compare prices at sites like
http://www.nextag.com/ and http://www.pricegrabber.com/.
Printable coupons and online coupon codes can be found at various sites. These include
http://www.coupons.com/
http://www.couponsurfer.com/
http://www.coolsavings.com/
www.bigcrumbs.com/crumbs/landing.do?r=ThaDreamer&s=46191 - This website
pays you through your PayPal account just for shopping at stores you may already
use online such as Target, The Children's Place, etc. There are over 350 stores
to choose from. And you can also get cash back for purchases made on eBay.
http://www2.quickrewards.net/?r=ThaDreamer - This website will pay you just to
print and use their coupons. You can also earn money shopping online and taking
surveys.
2) While in the grocery store, opt for generic brands whenever possible. Most of the
time you won't be able to tell the difference. Most store brands are actually made by
the brand name companies and just given a different label.
3) Buy items in bulk and stock up. If an item that you use often is on sale for a good price,
buy more than you generally would. This is easy to do with items that have an extended
shelf life, such as canned or boxed items. If you are able to buy meat at an irresistible
price, simply freeze the rest for future use. If you are not close to club stores such as
Costco or Sam's Club, Amazon features a similar online store, and shipping is often
free if your order is over $25. To visit go to www.amazon.com/grocery
Utilities -
1) Regulate electric usage. Unplugging, rather than just switching off your appliances
can save you on electricity.
2) Replace your lightbulbs. Compact florescent bulbs use up to 75% less energy than your
traditional incandescent bulbs. They also last much longer.
Vehicles -
1) Make sure to do scheduled maintenance checks and oil changes on your vehicles. This
can add years to the life of your car as well as eliminate some future repairs. April is
National Car Care Month. During this month, the Car Care Council, which is a nonprofit
organization dedicated to proper vehicle care, works with many auto body shops and
garage mechanics around the U.S. to sponser free inspections of your vehicles lights,
fluid levels, tires, and other systems. Check out http://www.carcare.org/ to find a service
station near you.
2) Roll your windows up when driving at speeds over 40 m.p.h. Open windows can reduce
gas efficiency by 10%.
Phone Service -
1) Shop around for the best cell phone deal in your area. Find one that best meets your
personal needs. There's no need to pay for minutes you're not using, or to pay overage
charges for using too many minutes. I recently switched to Boost Mobile's Prepaid
Unlimited Plan and am now paying $50 and month for unlimited talk, text, and web.
It's great. I'm saving over $25 a month.
2)
