Want to save money? Know where to trim your budget.
Paying those bills is never fun, but it’s even less exciting when those monthly expenses keep you from enjoying life. In fact, it’s probably easier than you think to eliminate some of those unnecessary household expenses.
Head to the grocery store
You can’t eliminate the price of food from your budget as people do have to eat. But do you really need to buy all of your groceries at Whole Foods and buy takeout for lunch every day? To make a big impact, eliminate all takeout and dining-out meals. Food from the grocery store is less expensive and likely healthier than a restaurant. If you crave the occasional meal out, search for the freebies or buy-one-get-one deals. Coupons are one simple way to cut expenses, but it’s not for everyone.
Entertainment
I’m not suggesting you ditch your TV, but I’m saying that if you want to save money, you might be surprised at all the options you have. Consider internet streaming via Apple TV, or another device. Many streaming services like Netflix and Amazon also allow multiple users under one account.
You could even challenge yourself to pick up a book from your local library or an online borrowing service and avoid spending a dime. Amazon’s Prime service allows a once-per-month free borrow of certain books and many local libraries also work with Overdrive, which allows borrowing ‘from the library’ but straight to your e-reader. This gives a huge number of title options, and you don’t even have to visit the library!
Your cellphone plan
Competition is fierce when it comes to cellphone carriers because the market is saturated with options for consumers. Take advantage of this and evaluate your phone and data plans and call customer service to negotiate your plan.
Landlines, last time used?
When is the last time you used your landline? If your phone has followed you from rental to rental or remained unused in your home for years, it may be time to unplug it for good and cut out that expense.
Search for better insurance rates
Insurance rates fluctuate often, so you could be missing out on a lower rate if you don’t shop around for new insurance at least once per year. Plus, competition is high among insurance companies, and you may qualify for certain discounts based on your age or risk with a different plan. You may qualify for a new discount, or you may be able to raise your deductible and see some savings.
Do you really need that gym membership
This isn’t an excuse to stop working out. Think of it as a challenge to find places to work out for free. Many cities offer free classes at downtown parks, and your bedroom might work in a pinch. Better yet? Finally, if you have a current gym membership that you use periodically, think about exactly which machines you use regularly and invest in free weights to use at home.
Maid service
It’s not uncommon to spend $150 or more on each cleaning. If you’re paying for a monthly maid service, that could add up to well over one month’s rent each year. Instead, dedicate 30 to 60 minutes each week to speed-clean your place yourself and split the time into five to 10 minutes each day. That way, your space will never get out of control, and you won’t be tempted to dial your cleaning service for a quick fix.
Pet costs
When it comes to pet care, dog spas, doggie day care services, and accessories, it’s easy for the extras to pile up. Instead of taking your pet to doggie daycare every day, find a local dog park to throw the ball and let him run loose with other dogs before you head to work. And instead of spending loads on grooming costs, look into self-service wash shops that can cost as little as $10 per wash.