Hard to beat that title, eh? Came across a terrific article at The Simple Dollar entitled “How to Save Money: 100 Great Tips to Get You Started.” They’re not all gems, and not all will apply to you, but you’re sure to find a few that hit you right in the pocketbook. Here are the top 20.
- Move bank accounts to take advantage of perks and earn more interest: And ditch those pesky fees when you can!
- Turn off the television: TV is really good at reminding you of what you don’t have. Also, as I have said a million times, cut the cable.
- Stop collecting, and start selling: My ex and her sure-to-be collectible Beanie Babies come to mind.
- Sign up for every free customer rewards program you can: Just be prepared to get a million emails every day.
- Make your own gifts instead of buying stuff from the store: Caution – requires talent!
- Master the 30-day rule: For big purchases, give yourself 30 days before you buy to make sure you truly want, need and love it.
- Write a list before you go shopping – and stick to it: I try, but those 2-for1’s at Publix always lure me away!
- Invite friends over instead of going out: Caution – requires having friends!
- Repair clothing instead of tossing it: I have had a couple of shirts for over 20 years, so this speaks to me
- Don’t spend big money entertaining your children: They say all kids really want is your time. Do you agree?
- Negotiate rates with your credit card company or complete a balance transfer: I did this once. A pain, but I did save a lot!
- Clean out those closets: Reduce clutter and sell or donate and tax the tax credit
- Buy video games that have a lot of replay value – and don’t acquire new ones until you’ve mastered what you have: Good luck selling that to your 13-year-old!
- Drink more water: Lots of health benefits, little cost
- Avoid convenience foods and fast food: Little health benefits, high cost
- For heaven’s sake, quit smoking. (!)
- Make a quadruple batch of a casserole: We tend to make at least double, have the leftover 3 nights from now. You really do save.
- Turn off the lights: This was pounded into me as a kid. Not even sure how much you save, it just seems wasteful to light a room you’re not in!
- Swap books, music, and DVDs on the Internet or at the library: Internet, sure. There are several “Swap” sites. Library? I’m not so sure.
- Maximize yard sales: Basically, don’t use low prices as an excuse to buy junk you don’t need.
…and 80 more! We might have to revisit this one at a future date. Did you see any savings tips that spoke to you? Ones that you are already doing? Do they work? Let us know over at the MindField Online Facebook page, and have a great weekend!