Are you in charge of your spending or is your spending in charge of you? Learn how to manage your expenses and meet your financial goals.
By now, you’ve probably broken a New Year’s resolution, or two, or three. But there’s one resolution you can’t afford to break and that’s getting out of debt. You’re on the right path to success being on a debt relief plan, but this is no time to let your guard down. Toward that end, here are 9 tips to help you keep your commitment this year.
Following are five ways to slash your heating bill: 1) Insulate! If you have any unheated spaces in your home, insulate above them (i.e., the ceiling of your basement, or the rafters of your attic). 2) Adjust the thermostat. Even lowering the temperature by a single degree can save 10% on your energy use. 3) Harness the sun. Unless your windows are really drafty, leave blinds open during the day. The sun’s natural heat will make a noticeable difference in the room. 4) Reverse your blades. Reverse the blades on your ceiling fan when the temperature drops. It will push the warm air down into the room. 5) Bundle up. Put on an extra sweater (or two). Fill a hot water bottle and you’ll stay cozy without spending more cash.
Following are five ways to save on your cell phone plan: 1) Review your usage. Are you chatting at night? During the day? On the weekend? Track when and whom you’re calling and find a plan to suit those habits. 2) Bundle your options. If you’re big on texting (20% of us average 10+ texts per day), don’t pay for each message. Make sure texts are included in your rate. 3) Consider a prepaid plan. This is a worthwhile option if you use fewer than 200 minutes per month. 4) Skip the insurance. It’s just not worth it: Insurance can run you $8 per month and you’ll still be responsible for a deductible (usually $50). 5) Track your international calls. If you often call overseas, investigate carriers that specialize in international plans. You’ll save tons over domestic carriers.
Following are five ways to save on groceries: 1) Shop high and low. Higher-priced items are likely to be chest height while bargains will be at the top or bottom of the shelves. Reach a little to save a little. 2) Don’t shop hungry. It’s harder to resist impulse items when you’re starving. Have a snack before you shop. 3) Make a list. When you’ve planned your purchases ahead of time, you’re more likely to stick to your budget. 4) Not all bargains are bargains. Don’t buy two pounds of tomatoes just because they’re on sale. If you end up throwing them out, you haven’t really saved. 5) Compare prices. If you buy the same things every week, shop around for the best prices. You may end up shopping at multiple locations, but you’ll save on weekly staples.
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