Tips, Tools & Resources
Saving Your Money
- Make a grocery list before shopping. Be sure to check out local ads and estimate your bill before you are at the checkout counter.
- Accumulate your loose change and put it in a "piggy bank". You will be surprised how fast this adds up.
- Use warm or cold settings when washing clothes to save on water bills. Wash clothes only when you have a full load.
- Line-dry your clothes instead of using a dryer.
- Wash dishes by hand or make sure you have a full load before using a dishwasher. Let the dishes air dry instead of using the "heat-dry" cycle.
- Keep thermostats set at 68 degrees.
- Purchase only the basic services for cable and telephone.
- Use free internet services.
- Use coupons or discount cards when possible.
- Instead of going to the movie in the evenings, take advantage of afternoon matinees.
- Plant perennials instead of annuals.
- Use your microwave instead of your oven.
- Use travel discounts and make reservations two weeks or more in advance.
- Get a roommate.
- Participate in employer benefit programs such as 401K, Cafeteria/FLEX Plans, etc.
- Shop at discount merchandise and clothing stores.
- Pay cash instead of using credit cards, unless you pay off your balance in full each month.
- Carpool.
- Shop for the lowest insurance rates.
- Choose free checking and savings accounts.
- Make investments even if you start out small.
- Buy generic drugs.
- Purchase products in bulk.
- Check out books, videos, and games at the library instead of purchasing.
- Pack lunches instead of eating out or using a vending machine.
- Take your own soda or beverage to work instead of purchasing out of the vending machine.
- Use email rather than calling long distance.
- Buy clothing during the off-season or during special sales throughout the year.
- Check rummage sales or second-hand stores for household items, children's clothing, and other miscellaneous things.
- Purchase extra school supplies when the stores have back to school savings so you won't have to pay full price later to replenish.
- Check with your local community for school supplies give-away opportunities.
- Swap times for childcare with a friend or join a childcare co-op.
