In the current economy, everyone's working to stretch their pennies. Here are a few small steps you can take to track your expenses and learn to save:
Create an expense list
Make a list, starting with required monthly costs (like gas money, food costs, etc.) then add other expenditures, like movie tickets, clothes, etc. Keep track of how much you spend on each category monthly. Try to lower the non-required items in small ways like buying clothes on sale.
Money saving tips for you and your family At home:
.Install a programmable thermostat that flips the heat every morning, lowers the heat when people are at school/work.
.In the summer, turn off the A.C. when you’re not in the house.
.Install a low-flow shower to save on the water bill.
.Wash clothes in cold water rather than hot.
Transportation:
.Decrease amount of cars in the family. Is it necessary to have a his and hers, and kids cars?
.Make use of public transportation and if you can, walk.
Entertainment:
.Make restaurant outings occasional and a special treat.
.Rent DVDs and make popcorn at home for a cheaper movie-watching alternative to going to the theater.
.Get a library card and borrow books and videos from your local library – talk about cheap entertainment!
Purchases/Shopping
.Buy generic drugs.
.Use grocery store coupons and print coupons off the internet.
.Shop at thrift stores and consignment shops. Discount stores are good too, but thrift stores tend to have higher quality for low prices.
