Even the bare essentials can feel like they have a chokehold on your bank account. Here are fifteen easy tips to get your monthly budget to loosen its grip.
Tighten Your Budget
It’s not exactly a fun way to do it, but going with a stricter budget can free up some space for other expenses. ,
Reevaluate Insurance
If you feel like paying too much for insurance, it’s probably time to shop around. Even if the switch only saves you a few dollars a month, you could save hundreds yearly.
Take Care of Your Belongings
Being careless with your stuff will inevitably lead to prematurely needing to buy new stuff.
Move
Another unpopular option for lowering your cost of living is moving somewhere cheaper. But considering how expensive rent or a mortgage can get, it’s seriously worth considering.
Get a Programmable Thermostat
Buying a programmable thermostat will make saving on energy costs simple by automating the temps in your home to be the most optimal for your budget and comfort.
Stop Dining Out
You don’t have to stop completely, but you should reconsider going out as much as you are, as it can be a significant spike in your cost of living.
Cut Out Needless Subscriptions
Subscription services can cost hundreds of dollars a month. Ask yourself which ones are vital, and part with the rest.
Skip the Coffee Shop
It’s cliche, but many people spend too much on their morning coffee. Unless you’re someone who absolutely cannot get anything done without their elaborate coffee beverage, making drip coffee at home and taking it with you has some considerable savings.
Avoid Impulse Spending
If you know a store or area of a shop will tempt you, do whatever it takes to stay away. It’s easiest to never give in to temptation if it’s not there to begin with.
Make Cleaning Supplies
You can make strong, effective cleaning supplies with a few ingredients you probably already have lying around! Baking soda, lemons, and vinegar are the backbone of many cleaners that don’t have harsh chemicals but still get the job done.
Buy Refurbished Electronics
This tip can sometimes be a gamble, but one that pays off handsomely if you know where to shop. Buying refurbished “like new” electronics can save you hundreds of dollars.
Shop Generic
Generics often taste similar enough to the name-brand project that you’ll barely notice the switch!
Buy Out of Season Clothing
Does it sound weird to buy a swimsuit in winter or a parka in summer? It shouldn’t; in fact, it’s an easy way to save money on what would otherwise be an expensive purchase.
Wait Before Making Purchases
This tip works particularly well for large purchases, but you can apply it to anything. Give yourself 24 hours before buying anything to consider whether it’s necessary.
Use Different Means of Transportation
Whether it’s public transportation, biking, or your own two feet, getting around town is a lot cheaper when you leave your car at home.
13 Signs You’re Financially Better Off Than the Average American
Achieving financial stability where you can meet your current financial obligations comfortably and still plan for the future is a goal everyone strives to attain.
However, while you may be able to pay your bills, save for vacations, and afford to dine out occasionally, you may feel left behind, especially if you compare yourself with your peers or others with higher salaries. You may be doing way better financially than the average American.
13 Signs You’re Financially Better off Than the Average American
8 Things the Middle Class Won’t Be Able to Afford in Five Years
Unfortunately, inflation’s vice grip on the middle class shows no sign of relenting anytime soon. Here are eight things about to get significantly more expensive for those in the middle of the pack to fit into their quickly tightening budgets.
8 Things the Middle Class Won’t Be Able to Afford in Five Years
20 Luxuries That Were Attainable 50 Years Ago That Now Escape the Middle Class
Specific experiences and commodities from the past were part of everyday life, accessible to most, and cherished by many. Fast forward half a century, and you’ll find these once-common threads have become silken and exclusive, reserved for the wallets of the well-to-do.
The landscape has shifted from leisure activities that bond families and friends to necessities that ensure health and happiness.
20 Luxuries That Were Attainable 50 Years Ago That Now Escape the Middle Class
14 Companies That Will Give You Free Food and Products Just for Asking
More companies are now offering free samples to get customers to try a new product. Over time, these companies gain loyal customers and can increase their sales. As a customer, you also get to test out free products and sample foods you’ve never tasted.
Here are some companies that will give you food and products for free just by asking.
14 Companies That Will Give You Free Food and Products Just for Asking