Saving $$$

2009 is all about saving money and managing your budget. What can you do on a daily basis to cut costs yet still live the life that you’re accustomed to living?  Here are just 15 simple ways… Feel free to share additional ideas.

1. Before going grocery shopping, view the weekly sales on the Dominick’s and Jewel Web sites.  Here, you can click on the items you’d like, print out the shopping list, and save money and time in the store by having a specific list of sales items. In addition, you can print coupons from both sites and even add P&G coupons to your preferred card with Dominick’s which will then be deducted from your total purchase once you scan your card.

2. Although gas prices have slightly reduced, car repairs, parking, and the patience and time involved in driving to work can be daunting.  Begin a car pool or take public transportation. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also help the environment and have some company.

3. Each time you make a trip to the grocery store, you’re spending time and money.  Reduce the number of times you run out of by pre-planning and buying in bulk-Costco is an excellent place to stock up on paper towels, toilet paper, and meat which can be stored in the freezer.

4. Fast food and lunch spots may seem affordable, however the prices really add up; on average, you spend approximately $6-$10 on lunch each day.  Over the course of a year, this adds up to $1560-$2600. Why not pack a lunch?  Would you like to use the extra money and enjoy a family dinner out?  A great resource for those of you with children is www.kidsmealdeals.com.  Simply enter your zip code and it’ll tell you where kids eat free.

5. When was the last time you spoke with your credit card company or cable/Internet provider?  During these hard times, people are shopping the competition and looking to save money.  Because companies are familiar with this, they will offer temporary low APR’s and re-negotiate rates to keep you as a customer.  Just last month I called Comcast and lowered my $59.99/mo bill to $19.99/mo.  That’s a savings of $40/mo which only took a total of 10 minutes!  Do the same thing with your credit card companies-let them know that a better rate is offered from another company and you’re planning to transfer your balance.  

6. Do you enjoy watching movies?  Instead of paying $12 per ticket, get Blockbuster online or Netflix and enjoy 2 movies at a time for approximately the same price!

7. Now that you have re-negotiated your APR’s on credit cards, take a look at which ones offer the highest APR and PAY THEM OFF first.  Although you might have higher balances on other cards, paying off the highest interest rate first will save you money!!!

8. Avoid ATM fees by using your own bank to withdraw cash.  Also, set automatic alerts through your bank when your balance gets low. This will help you eliminate fees.

9. Repaired items are good as new! Have you ever had a great pair of boots that you love but the heel is damaged or the leather looks old?  Instead of buying a new pair that could cost $100+, have them repaired.  The cost could be as low as $15 and you’ll have the opportunity to continue wearing those great boots that you’ve loved so long without feeling the guilt of replacing them and overspending.

10. Brush your teeth after meals-it’s hard to see the direct connection but it’s less likely that you’ll continue eating if you brush your teeth after a meal.  As a result, you’ll save money on snacks.

11. Many people are paying outrageous rates on their cell phone bills… Boost Mobile has a $50 monthly unlimited plan which includes nationwide talk, text, web and walkie-talkie.  Are you currently in a contract?  Visit cellswapper.com and lease your current contracted plan to someone else.

12. Avvo.com provides free legal advice. Do you have questions about bankruptcy, dept, foreclosure, employment law, divorce or your civil rights?  Ask a lawyer in your area for free!

13. Are you paying $2 for every 411 call?  I have a solution for you.  Dial 1-800-Free411 and say “hello” to free directory assistance.  You can also access information through www.free411.com.

14. If you can’t afford to buy new clothing, shoes, and accessories then I recommend visiting www.swapstyle.com.  Here, you have the opportunity to swap your unwanted merchandise for something new and fresh to you.  Get a whole new wardrobe without spending a fortune.

15. Do you have points with your credit cards, airlines and other providers that you don’t need or use?  Visit points.com to manage your current balances, get points and miles, use them