If the idea of cutting back on spending sounds daunting, you’ve come to the right place. These 10 tips can help you cut back your expenses, without cutting back your lifestyle.
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7. And if the prospect of cutting $75 out of the
monthly budget sounds daunting, here are some
tips to find savings.
8. 1 COMPARISON SHOP
Even if you don’t clip coupons, there are some tools that
can help you save. Google Shopper and Amazon Mobile
are two free mobile apps that let you to compare the
price of an item at different retailers.
Many retailers now offer price match guarantees.
So, you might not even have to drive to another store.
9. 2 Use the library for books and videos
The library has always been a great way to save money
over buying books at the bookstore or renting videos.
Now, many libraries also stock eBooks and movies, so
you can check those out, too.
10. 3 Brew your coffee at home
The average American worker spends around
$1,100 annually on coffee. Just a few trips to your
local coffeehouse for a latte can add up quickly.
Brewing coffee at home – while not free – could make
a big difference in your annual savings.
11. 4 Take a staycation
The average US vacation costs $244 per day for two
people (lodging and meals). Kids and airfare causes
the cost to rise even higher.
The idea of a staycation – visiting a local hotel or
destination instead of traveling – has become a
popular way to take a break without breaking
the bank.
12. 5 plant a garden
While organic, local produce is becoming a favored
choice, it can be expensive.
You can take advantage of the local/organic produce by
planting a bountiful garden in your yard, for a fraction of
the cost.
13. 6 Set up automatic savings transfers
Embrace the concept of “paying yourself first.”
Put money into savings as a priority before spending
money on entertainment, clothing, dining out, vacations
and new toys.
An easy way to make sure you do this is to set up
automatic transfers into your savings.
14. 7 trim your tax bill
Up to 2.2 million taxpayers forget deductions
and overpay taxes by an average of $438.
15. 8 Make your home more energy efficient
You don’t have to make big changes – like installing
solar panels – to save money on energy. Small changes
such as using a programmable thermostat also save
energy costs.
Many utilities and states also offer incentives for
increasing your energy efficiency.
16. 9 Look at your insurance policies
Revisit your insurance coverage at least every other year.
Make sure you have enough coverage, without being
over-covered. Take the opportunity to comparison shop
among different insurance providers.
17. 10 Refinance your mortgage
Mortgage rates have fallen dramatically over the last few years.
Refinancing your mortgage at current lower rates could save you
money every month.
Of course, there are always costs to consider before refinancing,
like closing costs.
18. These tips are just the beginning of things you can do to
start saving money. To learn more about saving money,
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This information is general in nature and is provided for educational purposes only. Regions makes no represen-
tations as to the accuracy, completeness, timeliness, suitability, or validity of any information presented. Infor-
mation provided should not be relied on or interpreted as accounting, financial planning, investment, legal, or
tax advice. Regions encourages you to consult a professional for advice applicable to your specific situation.