There are always things you can do right away to help you save money, according to Joe Sangl, my church’s financial pastor.
#1: Use Coupons
When you are shopping for groceries and other items, there are plenty of sites out there to help you save money. Check out Grocery Freak, Southern Savers and Coupon Mom.
#2: Call Your Cable Company
Pick up the phone and call your cable company. All you have to do is politely ask for a discount. You never know if they might have a special offer. It doesn’t hurt to try.
#3: Shop the Car and Home Insurance
Many people haven’t gotten new quotes in several years, says Sangl. Go ahead and get some. It could save you as much as $700 per year. Check out NetQuote to get fast quotes from agents in your area.
#4: Look at your Home Property Taxes
You can get a homestead exemption in many states. It’s a reduced rate of taxation on a personal residence. Visit your local government tax office for more information.
#5: Get Rid of Your Home Phone
I don’t know too many people that still have a home telephone. My husband and I just use our cell phones. Sangl says to ask yourself why you still have a home phone. You may not really need it!
#6: Go on a One-Month Spending Fast
Try to find ways to avoid spending money. You may surprise yourself and come up with some fun activities.
#7: Do as Much as You Can Online
Pay your bills online, buy postage stamps (at Stamps.com), make check deposits and try shopping online. It’s a fun online world out there!
#8: Use Coupons When Eating Out
My husband and I recently bought a book similar to the Entertainment book which offers up tons of restaurant coupons. Use the book, coupons that come in the mail and log onto Restaurant.com.
#9: Cut an Entertainment Item by One Per Month
I know this may be difficult to do, but it can really make a difference. If you take piano lessons once a week, try skipping one week per month. Or if you are a golfer and play every weekend take a break one weekend a month.
#10: Use Cash Envelopes
Sangl knows using cash envelopes in his life has made a big difference in helping him stick to a budget. Use these envelopes for the items you tend to impulse spend on. Use them for groceries, clothing and restaurants.