I have posted many of these tips before, however, with the new year and the challenging economy, I am posting these and more. As most of you already know (hint, hint, read my title :-)), I am a single mother. We do not get child support, or financial assistance. I also don't have family to help me though I am thankful for the many friends who have become family to us. Of course, they don't help us financially and that is exactly the way it should be. So, I have adopted many daily practices to save money and stretch a dollar. Especially as a new business owner, www.kathyscloset.biz, I need to watch every penny! So, here are some of the many money-saving tips you can also put into practice!
* Pack your own lunch and make your own coffee! The cost to eat out adds up! Also, those trips to Starbucks can break your budget. Just do it yourself. Prepare the night before so you are not in a rush the following morning.
* Do your own beauty stylings (if you can). I cut my own hair, and color it. I also cut my son's hair. I do my own manicures and pedicures. I can even do my own facials. It's not hard if you just spend a little time practicing. I save thousands per year doing this!!
* Give up the gym membership and use DVD's, home equipment, a buddy program, and the great outdoors! As a former trainer, I have kept up on my fitness with my own routine. It is so much easier to do in the privacy of my own home and a lot less expensive. Take brisk walks, ride your bike, get a work-out partner.
* Use coupons, especially on sites like www.southernsavers.com, that help you organize them by store. Keep them current and sorted. Know your favorite store's coupon policies. Take advantage of BOGO deals and double up the savings with coupon stacking (store coupon+manufacturer coupon+competitor coupon).
* Get rid of the landline and only use your cellphone!
*Check with your local cable company for "limited basic" which is about $13 per month. They don't tell you they have this option, but they do. It just gives you about 13 channels, but I don't care much for TV anyway. I use the my savings for a netflix membership at $8 per month. It is instant through our Wii game and has great shows you can also tailor to suit you and your family.
* Clean your own house! Having a maid is a luxury, especially now. I just do it myself and save the hundred dollars per visit.
* Buy your children's uniforms at garage sales and on eBay. I buy them in large quantities for a steal!
* Go to dealoz.com to check current prices on books, CDs, DVD;s and electronics. It will peruse the internet to find you the absolute best deal!
* Buy an older, fuel efficient car. If you can, pay for it all and don't finance it. I used to be a BMW girl. Not anymore! I love them, believe me! However, I love not having a car payment even better! Plus, I get great gas, low auto insurance and low maintenance costs!
* Watch your electric usage. Turn off lights, computers, TV's, etc. I also set the A/C to a higher temp, and the heat on a lower temp. Therefore, they don't come on as often. I save hundreds on my electric!
* Get regular oil changes, keep the tires inflated properly, and change your sparkplugs and filters as needed. Just some very inexpensive maintenance can save you hundreds in the long run!
* Check sites like retailmenot before you pay full price on items purchased online. From clothing to household items, etc., this site and other similar sites will give you promo codes to save on shipping, and the total cost.
* Use drugstore cosmetics. So many of them are made by the same exact manufacturers as the department store brands! The same with diapers!
* Buy larger portions and freeze them. I freeze things like milk, cheese, bread, vegetables, etc. Also, buy the "manager's special" on ground beef and meats in bulk. Get them home and package them into single serving portions and freeze them.
* ALWAYS check for the generic brand of drugs!!! Walmart has soooo many for just $4. Publix gives you antibiotics for free also. Krogers the same!
* Keep a drawer that is just for year-end tax items. Put all reciepts for healthcare, dental, home repair, childcare, mileage, charitable contributions, etc. into it. Make sure to deduct all that you are entitled to at the end of the year!
* Do your own lawncare! I didn't know a thing about lawns before I purchased my home. I quickly learned, and now boast one of the nicest lawns in my neighborhood. I fertilize regularly, and keep up with weeds and proper maintenance. I save hundreds per year doing this also!
Well, that is all for now! There is so much more, but this is a start! I am sure you can think of more ways to stretch a dollar. You may want to keep a journal for a month and log your spending. You would be so surprised to see the way you spend money! Happy New Year!!
Showing posts with label Save Money. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Save Money. Show all posts
Sunday, January 29, 2012
Friday, April 29, 2011
Saving on Gasoline!
Everyday we are reminded of the rising cost of gas. Thankfully, I now drive a more economical car. However, it is still painful to fill the tank. So, I hope that most of you are looking at ways to save gas. Here are some things that I do which truly help my gas tank "go the extra mile":
* Definitely sign up for Parkers Pump Pal program which saves you .10 to .15 per gallon. I see where Enmark, Shell and other companies are also jumping on the bandwagon. Why not? It's a great advertisement and certainly helps grow their business. Kroger grocery stores offer discounts on gas based on your purchases. There are so many perks now so it pays to do your research. The Parkers card works just like a debit card. You will need to go into the station to initially get your card, but you easily activate it online and connect it with your bank account.
* Try to drive the speed limit. I know in some cities it is harder to do so, but it really does save gas! Let the tailgaters go around. It's worth the money you will save in the long run!
* Keep your tires inflated properly. Inside the door jam you will see the proper inflation number (or in your owners manual). Try to check it at least monthly. Especially in colder weather as tires lose air quicker.
* Don't drive with your windows open! Yes, the wind blowing through your hair is so nice. However, the additional drag on your car just eats more gas to get you to where you are going.
* Don't put "your petal to the metal" as the light turns green! Again, it just wastes gas, and the extra minute you may gain in drive time really isn't worth it.
* Make sure your tires have decent tread life (at least 50%). And as I mentioned in an earlier post, you can buy your tires online through www.directtire.com or www.tirerack.com, etc. to save money!
* Change your oil regularly (at least every 5000 miles)
* Check that your sparkplugs are still good as it may be time to change those as well.
Anyway, these are just a few ways I have found to save on gasoline. There are many other ways. The bottom line is watch your driving and maintain your car!
See you next time!
* Definitely sign up for Parkers Pump Pal program which saves you .10 to .15 per gallon. I see where Enmark, Shell and other companies are also jumping on the bandwagon. Why not? It's a great advertisement and certainly helps grow their business. Kroger grocery stores offer discounts on gas based on your purchases. There are so many perks now so it pays to do your research. The Parkers card works just like a debit card. You will need to go into the station to initially get your card, but you easily activate it online and connect it with your bank account.
* Try to drive the speed limit. I know in some cities it is harder to do so, but it really does save gas! Let the tailgaters go around. It's worth the money you will save in the long run!
* Keep your tires inflated properly. Inside the door jam you will see the proper inflation number (or in your owners manual). Try to check it at least monthly. Especially in colder weather as tires lose air quicker.
* Don't drive with your windows open! Yes, the wind blowing through your hair is so nice. However, the additional drag on your car just eats more gas to get you to where you are going.
* Don't put "your petal to the metal" as the light turns green! Again, it just wastes gas, and the extra minute you may gain in drive time really isn't worth it.
* Make sure your tires have decent tread life (at least 50%). And as I mentioned in an earlier post, you can buy your tires online through www.directtire.com or www.tirerack.com, etc. to save money!
* Change your oil regularly (at least every 5000 miles)
* Check that your sparkplugs are still good as it may be time to change those as well.
Anyway, these are just a few ways I have found to save on gasoline. There are many other ways. The bottom line is watch your driving and maintain your car!
See you next time!
Saturday, April 9, 2011
Financially Speaking...
Sorry it has been a while since my last post. The months just go by so fast. Already 4 months into 2011 and wondering where the months went!
So, there have been some very positive changes this year. The first is that I have finally started a 401K. It is employer matched and automatically deducted from my bi-weekly paychecks. I know it is late to have started one, but, at least I did. I intend to keep it going until it is able to be deducted many years from now :-). The future is always uncertain as we know, it is good to have a cushion to fall back on.
I also have a health savings account that is employer matched. It comes in the form of a Visa card and is so easy and helpful. You can choose what you want automatically deducted from your check. If your employer does not offer this, many banks now do. It is a great way to use pre-tax dollars for health related issues that arise (like an oral surgery I just had to have Aghhhh)! You never know what is going to come up health wise, no matter how healthy you are. Think about opening one up!
Lastly, I just sold my car that I loved. Why? Well, it was purchased on my HELOC (Home Equity Line of Credit) which was a good move as I could deduct the interest yearly. However, it was more car than I really needed. My job now requires a great deal of car travel. Therefore, I also needed to downsize into a more fuel efficient vehicle. So, that is exactly what I did. I sold and purchased both via Craigslist. My new vehicle is older, but what a great deal I got! And the gas mileage and insurance are so much better. I immediately paid down my HELOC and it felt good! There is still a ways to go, but each month I chip away at it. I also add to a savings account and pay down any other debt as much as possible.
Just remember, with more money, you have more choices. It is a good feeling to know that you have a "rainy day" fund and other cushions should you need to "float a while".
Happy saving!
So, there have been some very positive changes this year. The first is that I have finally started a 401K. It is employer matched and automatically deducted from my bi-weekly paychecks. I know it is late to have started one, but, at least I did. I intend to keep it going until it is able to be deducted many years from now :-). The future is always uncertain as we know, it is good to have a cushion to fall back on.
I also have a health savings account that is employer matched. It comes in the form of a Visa card and is so easy and helpful. You can choose what you want automatically deducted from your check. If your employer does not offer this, many banks now do. It is a great way to use pre-tax dollars for health related issues that arise (like an oral surgery I just had to have Aghhhh)! You never know what is going to come up health wise, no matter how healthy you are. Think about opening one up!
Lastly, I just sold my car that I loved. Why? Well, it was purchased on my HELOC (Home Equity Line of Credit) which was a good move as I could deduct the interest yearly. However, it was more car than I really needed. My job now requires a great deal of car travel. Therefore, I also needed to downsize into a more fuel efficient vehicle. So, that is exactly what I did. I sold and purchased both via Craigslist. My new vehicle is older, but what a great deal I got! And the gas mileage and insurance are so much better. I immediately paid down my HELOC and it felt good! There is still a ways to go, but each month I chip away at it. I also add to a savings account and pay down any other debt as much as possible.
Just remember, with more money, you have more choices. It is a good feeling to know that you have a "rainy day" fund and other cushions should you need to "float a while".
Happy saving!
Monday, June 28, 2010
Some ways I save money...
So, people always ask me how I am able to save money and stretch a dollar so far? These days especially, that is a hot topic! Well, since I have been on my own since age 16, and had to learn the hard way, it's become a lifestyle for me. In fact, I don't even buy anything anymore unless it's on sale, or I can get a discount, or I have a coupon, etc. (you get the picture)! But, as far as things I do around the house on a daily basis to save money, and with my son? Well, here are a few things, and I'll be posting the best (most helpful) websites later:
Cut my hair and cut his hair
Color my hair (used to use Nice & Easy, but just switched to Loreal Excellence-works better and longer)!
Do my own manicures, and pedicures (including French)
Cut and maintain my own lawn and gardening, fertilizing, weeding, edging, etc.
Buy quite a bit at the Dollar Store (you would be surprised at the deals)!
Run my errands together to save gas
Keep my tires inflated well and the oil changed regularly
Buy prescriptions at WalMart for the $4 generic version and get antibiotics for free at Publix
Consistently look at the end tabs at places like Target, Walgreens, etc. There are some really great deals. Even grocery stores usually have a section of markdowns.
Do my own taxes (save you receipts in one place to make it easier at year-end)
Do my own small home repairs
Work-out at home with equipment, DVD's, and some learned techniques
Regularly review my home/auto insurance for the most competitive rate
Built my own website and maintain it
Check my favorite manufacturers website for promotions and deals and also become a member (when they keep your info private) to regularly get coupons mailed to you
Keep the air/heat at the bare minimums and use ceiling fans also
Use heat control curtains and close them when I am gone (I also recently had my windows tinted with solar film that blocks up to 65% of sun)
Change my home A/C filters regularly
Groom my own dog
Buy my dog's meds online (heart worm, flea/tick, etc). Saves tons of money!
Decorate, clean, and maintain my entire house
Pressure wash (small areas only) when needed
Use drink mixes and never buy sodas
Use my cellphone and not a land-line
Stockpile grocery/household items when they are 50% & use coupons too
Regularly go to garage sales to find items to re-sell (baby and kid items are always a hot ticket)!
Turn the water off in the shower when not needed during aspects of showering
Only eat out at places that offer BOGO deals or kids eat free deals
Go to the movies only before 5pm, and not too often
Buy the Sunday Paper from the biggest city near me (better coupons) and add to my coupon stash or give them away to friends in need
Turn off lights when not in use, and try to use artificial light sparingly
etc, etc, etc....
So, you may think some of those things are extreme, or time consuming, or not worth it. However, they become very worth it when you tally up how much you save each month, and can use that money for other needed things, and even a vacation fund! You would be amazed at how much you can teach yourself to do, if you only try!
Cut my hair and cut his hair
Color my hair (used to use Nice & Easy, but just switched to Loreal Excellence-works better and longer)!
Do my own manicures, and pedicures (including French)
Cut and maintain my own lawn and gardening, fertilizing, weeding, edging, etc.
Buy quite a bit at the Dollar Store (you would be surprised at the deals)!
Run my errands together to save gas
Keep my tires inflated well and the oil changed regularly
Buy prescriptions at WalMart for the $4 generic version and get antibiotics for free at Publix
Consistently look at the end tabs at places like Target, Walgreens, etc. There are some really great deals. Even grocery stores usually have a section of markdowns.
Do my own taxes (save you receipts in one place to make it easier at year-end)
Do my own small home repairs
Work-out at home with equipment, DVD's, and some learned techniques
Regularly review my home/auto insurance for the most competitive rate
Built my own website and maintain it
Check my favorite manufacturers website for promotions and deals and also become a member (when they keep your info private) to regularly get coupons mailed to you
Keep the air/heat at the bare minimums and use ceiling fans also
Use heat control curtains and close them when I am gone (I also recently had my windows tinted with solar film that blocks up to 65% of sun)
Change my home A/C filters regularly
Groom my own dog
Buy my dog's meds online (heart worm, flea/tick, etc). Saves tons of money!
Decorate, clean, and maintain my entire house
Pressure wash (small areas only) when needed
Use drink mixes and never buy sodas
Use my cellphone and not a land-line
Stockpile grocery/household items when they are 50% & use coupons too
Regularly go to garage sales to find items to re-sell (baby and kid items are always a hot ticket)!
Turn the water off in the shower when not needed during aspects of showering
Only eat out at places that offer BOGO deals or kids eat free deals
Go to the movies only before 5pm, and not too often
Buy the Sunday Paper from the biggest city near me (better coupons) and add to my coupon stash or give them away to friends in need
Turn off lights when not in use, and try to use artificial light sparingly
etc, etc, etc....
So, you may think some of those things are extreme, or time consuming, or not worth it. However, they become very worth it when you tally up how much you save each month, and can use that money for other needed things, and even a vacation fund! You would be amazed at how much you can teach yourself to do, if you only try!
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