BudgetBrilliant

Keep Your Hot Water Tank Hot!

2009-06-04T05:57:00.000-07:00

Need another money saving tip? How about your hot water tank. Whether you have gas or electric, it takes a toll on your bills every month. As the water heats up, the temperature reaches the set level and then slowly starts to lower again. This causes the heating element to re-engage and heat the water back up. Every time the water needs to be re-heated, you lose money.

A good way to help this problem is to purchase a hot water heater insulation pad. You can purchase one at most hardware stores. You simply wrap it around your hot water heater and tape it up. It comes with tape to secure it to your heater, but you’re going to need more. The tape has a tendency to heat up in the summer and make the glue slide. This’ll make the insulation slide off of the water heater. Use a large amount of tape and make sure the blanket is secure.

Keep Track of your Finances by Writing them Down

2009-05-28T05:21:00.000-07:00

Everyone knows how easy it is to spend money. Once you get a paycheck in the bank, it’s easy to start using your debit card and lose track of how much you spend. A good way to help you not lose track of your finances is to keep an ongoing record. Every time you buy groceries or pay for a movie, go ahead and write it down. Once you have more than one purchase, start adding the numbers together. Keep adding to the total every time you use your card. This will put the total you’re spending right in front of your face. Seeing the financial result of your constant spending will really get you to think about things before you buy them. You’ll start to save more and have cash in the bank for the day that you REALLY need it. Start writing!

To Shop or Not to Shop

2009-05-21T05:57:00.000-07:00

Many people are living on a shoe string budget these days. But luckily there are some ways to shop on a dime without completely sacrificing style.

· Pay attention when stores are having sales. Immediately walk to the back of the store to check the sales racks. Stores often keep sale items in the back so that customers will be more likely to see items that are not on sale first and will be more inclined to purchase those too. But do your best to resist the temptation.

· Discount stores such as Ross and Rugged Warehouse offer amazing deals on designer finds. Of course, be prepared to search through the racks to find anything good and often items will have holes, so inspect carefully before making a purchase.

· Websites also offer some great discount choices. Many sites will also offer customers free shipping with a purchase of specific amounts.

· There are discount designer stores that offer beautiful clothes at discounted prices. Stores like Steve and Barry, H&M and Forever 21 create their own clothing lines, which give them the flexibility to sell most items for $50.00 or less.

· Consignment stores also offer great choices. Consignment shops aren’t what they used to be! Now you find great deals on slightly used, name brand clothing. Sometimes you can even find items with the tag still attached.

Re-Evaluate your Cell Phone Plan

2009-05-14T05:39:00.000-07:00

A third step toward reducing monthly expenses is to look at your cell phone payment. If you’re paying over $150 a month to use your phone, you may want to evaluate your plan to see how the bill can be reduced.

Some other alternatives:

Text Messaging Text messaging plans can be added for a small fee (usually around $6 to $10). The great thing about text messaging is that it doesn’t use up air time minutes, which reduces the need for talk and shaves money off of expensive plans or over limit charges (rate per minute charges).

Voice Over Internet Options This service consists of a software application that allows users to make telephone calls over the Internet. Calls to other users of the service and to free-of-charge numbers are free, while calls to other landlines and mobile phones can be made for a fee. Additional features include instant messaging, file transfer and video conferencing. Online phone services like Skype offer unlimited US and Canadian calling plans for $2.95 and unlimited world calling plans for $12.95 per month. Calls to friends who are also using Skype are free.

Consumers Have Overdosed on Credit

2009-05-07T08:45:00.000-07:00

Many Americans have fallen victim to risky loans – applying for high interest credit cards, purchasing homes they can’t afford and paying financial loans on private schools for their kids. Recently, when I looked into admitting my daughter into a pre-k program at a local private school here in my city, I discovered that the total costs for 10 months would be over $11,000! Sorry, I may be willing to go into debt for my daughter’s college education, but not for Pre-K. Does that make me a horrible parent? –HARDLY!

If you get into a financial bind due to too much overdosing on credit, you’d actually be better off applying for a short-term online loan. These loans are paid back within 2 weeks and are intended to help consumers make ends meet between paydays – not accumulate more debt! This also offers a less expensive alternative to paying over limit fees, late fees or bounced check fees.

So, the next time you consider applying for another line of credit to purchase something that is not in your budget, please reconsider. Instead, put money aside each week for as long as it takes. It may take several months to save enough money for the item, but it will help you realize if it is really that important to you. Saving the cash will also help you appreciate the item more and will also teach you, as well as others in your family a lesson in patience.

Americans need to learn how to just say NO to overconsumption and ridiculous financial behavior.

Have you thought about packing a lunch?

2009-04-30T06:22:00.000-07:00

Having to stretch out the paycheck between paydays? Looking for an easy way to save cash? Try packing a lunch! So many people eat out everyday when they’re at work. The average cost for this is between $5-10 a day. If you start bringing your lunch Monday thru Thursday (we’ll let you eat out on Friday), then you can save $20 to $40 a week. This adds up to $80 to $120 a month and $960 to $1,440 a year!

If you want to be real strict with yourself, then bring lunch on Fridays as well. Of course, the amount of money saved will be reduced a bit by the amount you spend to buy your lunch supplies. But compared to the amount you save, this is a really low amount.

So start thinking about what’s easy to make at home and what you like to eat. Then hit the grocery store this weekend and pick-up some supplies. Good luck and great eating!

Step 1: Reducing Monthly Expenses

2009-04-16T10:40:00.000-07:00

Are you finding yourself not being able to get ahead with your bills? Maybe it’s time to re-evaluate your expenses. Over the next few weeks, Budget Brilliant will be highlighting some areas of your budget that can easily be reduced.

* Today’s Budget Cut: Cable Television
Subscriptions to an expanded cable package can be really expensive, reaching $100 in some areas. Reducing your cable package to at least the basic channels or eliminating it all together will save you around $50 a month and make you $600 wealthier at the end of the year.

Some things you can do instead of watching television include:

· Read more. It’s easy to find deals on magazine subscriptions or if you don’t want to spend any money – try swapping with friends.
· Spend time with your friends, kids or spouse. Organize a game night or head outside.
· Watch movies at home. Instead of buying new DVDs or renting them, check out your local library to check out various selections of movies, music, audiotapes, books and other types of media. This will also keep you from getting bored and keep a steady stream of entertainment going.

Saving For College

2009-04-09T08:22:00.000-07:00

If you’re a parent wondering about how you’ll pay for your child’s future college bills, your best source for a college savings plan is a 529 Plan. Below are some different saving plans that are available.

1. Direct Sold Savings Program. As with many 529s, this plan will vary according to the state that in which you are located. This type of plan is managed by investment firms where investors will purchase directly from the plan manager.
2. Broker Sold Saving Program. These 529s are sold through a financial advisor, which means that you’ll get the benefit of advice and expertise of an investment professional.
3. Prepaid Contract. This plan allows you to purchase a contract covering from 1 to 5 years, in a lump sum or in installments.
4. Prepaid Unit/ Guaranteed Savings. This plan allows you to buy units toward tuition, which will equal credit hours once your child enters a college.

Source: www.savingforcollege.com

Ways to Keep Giving Back, Even in a Slumping Economy

2009-04-02T12:06:00.000-07:00

I know what you’re probably thinking… I can barely make ends meet now, how can I even think about giving to my favorite charities? Still, for those of us who would like to continue giving back to others who are less fortunate, there are ways to do just that… and without completely emptying the bank account.

1. Treat the family to a night out and give back at the same time. Restaurants often have special nights when you can eat there and a portion of the sales will go to a specific charity.

2. Many online lenders offer referral programs with high pay outs (anywhere from $20 to $100) for each referred borrower. This provides extra cash for things like giving to charities just for referring friends and family to loan sites!

3. Donate used items. Do some spring cleaning and search through your closets for items that you haven’t used in a while. Take a trip to Goodwill or any other charitable thrift store to donate all of your used gear.

4. Look for companies who have contribution opportunities available. Some companies will agree to “match” community donations earned for schools and other charitable organizations.

Easy Ways to Save on your Spring Break Travel

2009-03-26T09:48:00.000-07:00

Spring break is here! By now, you’re probably itching to get out of town to do something fun. Why not save some money too! Here are three key ways to save on spring break travel…

· Travel with another family. Splitting expenses with other friends and family can significantly reduce trip cost.
· Buy groceries. Get snacks for the trip ahead of time, so that you won’t be tempted to buy at a gas station along the way. If the place where you’re staying has a kitchen, load up on groceries and set a goal to only go out to a couple of nice dinners.
· Look online for deals. Research online and at the visitor’s center once you arrive at your destination. Often you can find coupons for hotel stay, restaurants, air fare and entertainment.

If budgeting for spring break travel seems like too much right now, you might want to consider ways to get short term cash between paydays. Payday loans offer a quicker solution than traditional bank loans and offer the ultimate in flexibility, loaning any amount you choose between $100 and $1500.

Three Steps to Creating a Budget

2009-03-19T11:41:00.001-07:00

Financial stress can bring anyone down. Having a household budget can help combat some of that tension and help you be on your way to cash relief. Below are three easy steps to creating a flawless budget.

Identify how you're spending money now. Keep track of your receipts and keep a spreadsheet to log every expense. This may seem time consuming in the beginning, but will become less tedious as you become accustomed to the process.

Evaluate your past spending to set goals for any future spending. It may be difficult to see how you have been spending in the past since you weren’t tracking before, but read through your bank statements to create an estimated idea of where your money has been going. Then, choose where you can make cuts or eliminate expenses that are unnecessary.

Track your spending to make sure it stays within those guidelines. As you begin tracking your expenses, evaluate the spending every month to be sure that you’re staying within your goal budget.

Spring Fever

2009-03-12T11:29:00.000-07:00

Spring is almost here. This is a time for fresh starts – flowers will begin to peek and weather will begin to get warmer. How will you get ready for a fresh start? A payday loan can provide you with the funding to help in recharging yourself in preparation of the more colorful, sunnier surroundings, but you’ll need to make arrangements for your complete renewal.

Cleaning your home might be a start in the right direction. A thorough elimination of cob webs, leftover Christmas tree needles and other winter dirt can help in your quest for a new beginning this spring.

Here are some items you’ll want to check off your list:

· Windows - Clean inside and easy-to-reach outside windows.
· Blinds, shades or drapes - Start by dusting or vacuuming the valance and frame, then vacuum from top to bottom using the upholstery attachment for drapes and the brush attachment for blinds.
· Kitchen Cabinets - Wipe down cupboard fronts, shelves and walls.
· Upholstered Furniture - Remove the cushions. Thoroughly vacuum nooks and crannies with a crevice tool.
· Rugs or carpeting – Have these professionally cleaned to thoroughly remove any dust and bacteria.
· Walls – Wash down.

For a complete spring cleaning check list, visit realsimple.com

Keep your head up in an Economic Downturn

2009-03-05T08:07:00.000-08:00

In an economic downturn, it’s common for people to have the blues. But negativity doesn’t have to be contagious. If you’re experiencing some hard times, you might want to think about turning to a short-term cash advance for some immediate help. The fees for a short-term cash advance are less expensive than late payment fees and won’t reflect negatively on your credit report.

Here are the comparisons:

$100 payday advance with $15 fee = 391% APR;
$100 bounced check with $48 NSF/merchant fees = 1,251% APR;
$100 credit card balance with $26 late fee = 678% APR;
$100 utility bill with $50 late/reconnect fees = 1,304% APR.

Get Smarter with your Money

2009-02-25T13:36:00.000-08:00

We’re all guilty of making bad financial decisions at some point in our lives. But it’s when lessons are never learned and mistakes keep happening that there is a real problem with bad financial choices.

By following some of these easy steps, you’ll be on the road to financial success in no time.

1. Don’t write checks, if there isn’t enough in your checking account to cover it. On Average, a bounced check fee will cost you over $50. So, if you’re already in a financial crunch, the chances are that paying won’t be pleasant.

2. As with the checks, don’t over extend your credit card’s line of credit. If you know that you are within $50 of your credit limit, don’t use it. Otherwise, you could end up paying at least a $30 over limit fee.

3. Don’t live by the motto “To have is to spend”. Avoid living from paycheck to paycheck and start saving a portion of your hard earned cash.

4. Finally, if you’ve tried and you just can’t get ahead, an online cash advance could help you get back on your feet. But borrow responsibly!

Now is the Time to Save Money for Emergencies

2009-02-20T05:13:00.000-08:00

Sometimes it seems as if you’ll never get ahead in the money game. You know the feeling, when you finally get an extra $200 in the bank when you have a car accident with a $500 deductible to pay or maybe your car breaks down. Having emergency cash available during these types of events is very beneficial, but unfortunately is rarely the case. However, with enough determination a $500 cushion can be easily obtained by following these easy steps:

Save your change. Several readers tell of saving hundreds over the course of a year, even making a game of it with their children.

Use your tax refund. It’s tax refund time and the typical refund check is usually around $2,000.

Try a "buy nothing" month. Resist the temptation to eat out or have a shopping spree. Bring your lunch to work and avoid shopping for 30 days.

Source: msnmoney.com

How to Avoid Paying Too Much for Auto Repairs

2009-02-12T07:31:00.000-08:00

We are all aware that car repairs are not cheap. In fact, automobile breakdowns are most often the cause for financial emergencies. Fortunately though, there are some ways you can avoid paying astronomical charges during your next trip to the mechanic.

1. Don’t Avoid Any Necessary Repairs When little problems become large, the costs go up… sometimes WAY up. For example, if you avoid the fact that your brakes are making noise, the chances of them grinding into your rotors and costing a lot more become higher.

Cost Comparison: New brake pads - $210, new brake pads with rotors – around $900.

2. Maintain Maintenance Requirements Auto manufacturers recommend service checkups at regular intervals, such as every 3,000, 15,000 and 30,000 miles. By following the schedule, you’ll know your car most likely won’t leave you hanging out in the cold. Owner’s manuals list maintenance schedules and schedules can be found online at the manufacturer’s website.

Cost Comparison: Follow maintenance schedule if your car is under warranty, or you may void the coverage.

3. Change Motor Oil Motor oil lubricates the engine and removes contaminants, such as small bits of metal that can cause big damage over time. Engines do bad things when they have low or no oil.
Change the oil yourself or have it changed at the mileage suggested in the car owner’s manual – usually 3,500 miles. Check the oil level every week by pulling out the dipstick, wiping it with a clean cloth, reinserting it and pulling it out again, and checking that the oil on it comes to the “full” line. If it doesn’t, add oil a little at a time, through the oil filler hole, not the dipstick hole.
Cost Comparison: New engine, $5,000; rebuilt engine, $2,500; oil change, $18; quart of oil, $1.25.

4. Never drive with temperature gauge on hot The temperature gauge indicates when the engine is running too hot. The problem may be a faulty thermostat, which regulates the flow of coolant into the engine, or lack of coolant. The result of driving with a gauge on “H” may be a fried engine.
Instead, when the gauge goes up, pull off the road as soon as possible and call for help. Never open the hood of a car if steam is flowing from beneath it, and never remove the radiator cap when the engine is hot, because hot steam and coolant could burn you.

Cost Comparison: Cost of a new engine, see above; thermostat, $10; gallon of coolant, $10.
Source: Vehix.com

Eating Healthy on a Budget

2009-02-05T05:08:00.000-08:00

Just because you’re eating on a budget doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice getting your daily dose of fruits and vegetables. Just follow these easy steps for buying the freshest produce and keeping them fresh for a longer amount of time.
First of all, if you’re feeding a family (four and up), I recommend buying your produce from a wholesale club during the colder months. In summer, try growing a garden and get the whole family involved in the process. Or buy fruits and veggies from a farm stand, where items will likely be much cheaper.

One of the most productive ways to be sure that your produce gets eaten is to separate fruits out into small individual bowls or plastic bags. This is great to store everything and ensures easy access to fresh snacks. If you buy more fruits and vegetables than you can use, don’t let them spoil in the refrigerator: freeze them!

Three Easy Ways To Start Saving $100 A Week

2009-01-29T10:05:00.000-08:00

Feeling like you’ll never get ahead with the finances? Believe it or not, there are some very easy ways to save an extra $100 a week. These tips won’t get the best of your budget and at the end of the week; you’ll be amazed at the amount of cash you’ve saved.

Stop eating out for lunch. This may seem tough to do if you like to eat with your co-workers on a regular basis, but this is one of the biggest money drainers of them all. If we figure that the average lunch costs $8 to $10, and then we multiply that by 5 working days, that’s $40 to $50 a week that you could be saving. Instead, start packing your lunch every day. With the $40 you would have spent on lunch, you can purchase enough groceries for a week’s worth of lunches and dinners. Why pay someone $10 to make you a sandwich when you can do it for $2 or less by yourself? You’ll also save on gasoline by not slogging through lunch hour traffic every day just to grab a bite to eat.

Get a Wholesale Club card. Buying in bulk can be a great way to save on things like paper towels, disposable diapers, and other short-term usage items. There is a membership fee of $25, but the savings you’ll see in just a few months time will more than pay for it.

Ask yourself if you need it or want it? Evaluate every purchase, items like beauty magazines, a new pair of shoes, a wrench set, or the latest cell phone might be things you want, but do you really need them? When you stop and think about this, you can save yourself on a lot of impulse buying.

4 Ways to Save when Buying your Next Car

2009-01-22T05:24:00.000-08:00

Research
A little research can save you a lot of trouble in the long run. Read the latest issue of Consumer Reports magazine and see what they have to say about the car you’re interested in. You can find one of these in your local bookstore, library, or on the internet if you have a subscription. If you’ve got a friend in the business, try to get some unbiased information. Use the internet and check the pricing to make sure you don’t pay more than you should. Look for deals on sites like eBay and Auto Trader that have enormous quantities of cars available for sale around the country. You might have to drive a hundred miles, but it’s worth it when you find a great buy for several thousand under the bluebook value.

Haggle
If you’re only comfortable buying from a dealership, be prepared to do some haggling to get the price closer to where you want it. Dealerships typically mark their cars up between 15-25%, so bring some quotes from other dealerships and internet sites for extra haggling power. Always try to buy your car at the end of the month, as this is when dealerships might be desperate to sell off some inventory to increase commissions.

Get a Second Opinion
Before you sign on the dotted line, have a friend who has a good knowledge of cars help you check it over thoroughly for any problem areas. In addition, try to avoid dealership finance deals, as they can add thousands more to the final price of the vehicle. Check with your insurance agent to see how much your premiums will be based on the car you buy.

Go Green
Try buying a used hybrid. It’ll save you money at the gas pump and it’s good for the environment. If you live in a city or crowded suburb, you might consider an electric car for the commute back and forth to work. As long as you don’t live far from your job, they’re a great alternative from the gas-guzzlers you compete with on your way home.

Online Loans - The cure for holiday overindulgence

2008-12-29T07:21:00.000-08:00

Overspending throughout the holiday season can leave many people with empty wallets and feeling that they’ll never get catch up on finances. This can lead to an overwhelming sense of stress and depression.

The rise of the online loan industry has given many consumers the ability to get the personal loans they need during a financial emergency, in a convenient and secure manner. Many people with less than perfect credit have benefited greatly from online lending. Online secure cash advances have allowed many customers the freedom to get the money they need without the hassle of credit checks or waiting in line.

Before making the decision to apply for an online loan, here are some things that you should look for in a lender:

1. You want to make sure that the website is an actual company and not just a marketer. Read the “about us” page for more information and see what the company says about themselves.

2. Make sure the company is legitimate. Look for a clearly posted phone number or additional contact information.

3. Give the company a call and see if the greeting you receive includes the company name.

4. Look for a business address that is clear posted on the website. Some companies do not have an actual physical address because they operate solely online. In this case refer to number three.

5. Look to see if the company has posted their business hours on the site.

6. When you go to fill out an application, make sure your personal information is being processed in a Secure Socket Layer. This encrypts the data that you give in your application so that no one else can see it. You’ll know if your date is safe if the http at the top of the page reads https. The s stands for secure.

Save $100 a week – Continued

2008-12-22T05:36:00.000-08:00

Some folks may choose to live life on the edge, living from paycheck to paycheck. But when it’s time to have something repaired – like the home heating or the family car, there’s nothing saved for those kinds of emergencies. If there’s nothing saved and there’s no family to borrow cash from, people most often have no other choice, but to apply for some sort of short term loan. Most often opting for a cash advance from a store front location or online. But maybe you’ve decided that you’re tired of living from paycheck to paycheck and want to start actually saving some money!

There are some very obvious ways to save a buck or two here and there.

First of all… Quit eating out for lunch! This may seem tough to do if you like to eat with your co-workers on a regular basis, but this is one of the biggest money drainers of them all. If we figure that the average lunch costs $8 to $10, and then we multiply that by 5 working days, that’s $40 to $50 a week that you could be saving. Instead, start packing your lunch every day. With the $40 you would have spent on lunch, you can purchase enough groceries for a week’s worth of lunches and dinners. Why pay someone $10 to make you a sandwich when you can do it for $2 or less by yourself?

*You’ll also save on gasoline by not slogging through lunch hour traffic every day just to grab a bite to eat.

And that leads to my second piece of advice… Get a SAM’s Club card. Buying in bulk can be a great way to save on things like paper towels, drinks and other short-term usage items. There is a membership fee of $25, but the savings you’ll see in just a few months time will more than pay for it.

Save $100 a week

2008-12-16T08:04:00.000-08:00

With most people living from paycheck to paycheck, it can be very difficult to save money. And that can make for very stressful times when emergency cash is needed.

But there are some easy ways to save a few bucks here and there...

1. Pay yourself a percentage of your paycheck. It doesn’t matter if it’s 10% or 1%. As long as you sock away some part of your paycheck consistently, your efforts will pay off in time. If you’re living from paycheck to paycheck and think it’s just not possible to spare another cent for savings, try again. Think about that iced coffee you just bought. There was probably some change left over right? Well, there you go. This brings us to the next point.

2. Save every penny! Every time you buy something with cash, there’s usually some change involved. Instead of throwing that change in your pocket or under the seat, put it into a jar and save it up. You’ll be amazed by what you have after only a few weeks time. Save your change up for a few months and you’ll have a nice chunk of change that you can take to the bank.

3. Need it or Want it? Things like beauty magazines, a new pair of shoes, a wrench set, or the latest cell phone might be things you want, but do you really need them? Evaluate every purchase from the standpoint of “Do I absolutely need this product at this point in time?” When you stop and think about this, you can save yourself on a lot of impulse buying.

Check back on Friday, when I’ll include some more tips to help you save $100 a week.

Buying a car in today's market - Part 1

2008-12-05T05:54:00.000-08:00

In today’s economy, many consumers have been worried about making large purchases. For example, purchasing a car may seem impossible. Many are finding it difficult to get a loan these days. But for those with satisfactory credit, now is the time to get a great deal.
With jammed up car lots continuing to fill up with overstock, car dealers are desperate to lure people in to buy. And to do so, they are enticing customers with some great offers. Including, amazingly low interest rates and rebate offers, as well as additional end of the year savings. Toyota recently announced its 0% interest financing and other leading car manufacturers have quickly followed.

The U.S. Treasury Department recently announced a new program to increase the availability of auto loans. The announcement came soon after a key request from the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA). The new program will benefit both the consumer and the auto dealer. It is hoped that the news will likely go a long way in helping to restore consumer confidence and aid in rebuilding economic stability throughout the country.

Source: www.CNNMoney.com
Source: www.nada.org

Continuing the holiday gift giving theme…

2008-12-01T12:26:00.000-08:00

Let’s face it - times are tough. And now, as if you weren’t strapped for cash enough, the holidays are quickly approaching.

For the kids on your list, there are several inexpensive choices for gift giving.

1. Old fashioned board games! Games like Candy Land or Chutes and Ladders can be purchased for $5.00 or less.

2. Or visit the local dollar store to rack up on some great toy knick knacks for a $1.00 each.

3. Puzzles (you can usually find some of these for $2.99)

4. Fun and colorful socks or underware (still under $10)

5. Gel pens and pretty stationary

6. Sometimes you can find great deals on books too. Book stores like Books-A-Million often have a special sale section located toward the back of the store that’s filled with great deals on children’s book selections.

2008-11-21T12:16:00.000-08:00

Tis' the season for NOT using your credit card!!

2008-11-21T11:59:00.000-08:00

With the holidays quickly approaching, many of you may be trying to budget for holiday gift giving. And in this crazy economy… it may be tempting to charge holiday gift items to your credit card. Don’t do it! If you use your credit card, chances are that you might overspend, buying too many items for people or buying high priced items.

Instead, try downsizing this year. Keep holiday purchases to a bare minimum.

Here are some inexpensive gift buying ideas that are effortless, but filled with a lot of love and are still very thoughtful.

1. Holiday themed platter filled with homemade baked cookies or bread, with the recipes attached
2. Personalized coffee mug filled with Starbucks coffee samples or candy
3. Photo Album or collage filled with memorable photographs
4. Gourmet chocolate bars tied together with decorative ribbon
5. Journal with some inspiring words from the giver
6. Vintage Teacups or bowls (purchased from a yard sale or thrift store) and filled with teas or bath salts
7. Subscription to a popular magazine that you know the gift receiver will enjoy (sometimes you can find great deals on these for as little as $12 for a 1 year subscription)
8. “Locally made” themed gift baskets – find great deals on items made in your city or town, including – honey, jams, sauces, dips or muffin mixes
9. Magnets with your favorite quotes on them
10. For the grandparents… frame some of your child’s artwork in a cool frame

Relief at the gas pumps – Part 2

2008-11-14T06:13:00.000-08:00

Have you ever wondered what exactly makes your automobile more fuel efficient?
Check out these 10 fuel saving tips provided by gasbuddy.com! And be on your way to saving money with less gas consumption.

1. Avoid High Speeds
As your speed increases, your aerodynamic drag increases in an exponential fashion. Driving 62 mph (100 km/h) vs 75 mph (120 km/h) will reduce fuel consumption by about 15%.
2. Do Not Accelerate or Brake Hard
By anticipating the traffic and applying slow steady acceleration and braking, fuel economy may increase by as much as 20%.
3. Keep Tires Properly Inflated
Keep tire air pressure at the level recommended by your vehicle manufacturer. A single tire under inflated by 2 PSI, increases fuel consumption by 1%.
4. Use A/C Sparingly
When the air conditioner is on it puts extra load on the engine forcing more fuel to be used (by about 20%). The defrost position on most vehicles also uses the air conditioner.
5. Keep Windows Closed
Windows open, especially at highway speeds, increase drag and result in decreased fuel economy of up to 10%.
6. Service Vehicle Regularly
Proper maintenance avoids poor fuel economy related to dirty air filters, old spark plugs or low fluid levels.
7. Use Cruise Control
Maintaining a constant speed over long distances often saves gas.
8. Avoid Heavy Loads
Remove the sand bags from your trunk in the spring and pack lightly for long trips.
9. Avoid Long Idles
If you anticipate being stopped for more than 1 minute, shut off the car. Restarting the car uses less fuel than letting it idle for this time.
10. Purchase a Fuel Efficient Vehicle
When buying a new vehicle examine the vehicle's rated fuel efficiency. Usually choosing a small vehicle with a manual transmission will provide you with great fuel economy.

More relief at the gas pumps!

2008-11-07T11:17:00.000-08:00

In recent weeks, there seems to finally be some relief at the gas pumps.

Here are some other easy ways to save more money at the pump…

Applying for a credit card that offers incentives is one way to save some additional money at the pumps. JPMorgan Chase & Co. offers a BP Visa card that earns you 5% cash back on all fuel purchases from any BP location or 2% back on all other Ultimate Fuel locations.

Sites like GasBuddy.com can help you find cheap gas prices in your city. It is a network of more than 181 gas price information websites that help you find low gasoline prices. All web sites are operated by GasBuddy and have the most comprehensive listings of gas prices anywhere.

According to GasBuddy, gasoline prices change frequently and may vary by as much as 20 percent within only a few blocks. It's important to be able to find the service station with the lowest priced fuel. GasBuddy websites allow motorists to share information about low priced fuel with others as well as target the lowest priced stations to save money when filling up at the pumps!
And saving money at the pumps, means being able to put away some extra emergency cash!

Bounced Check Fees are Ridiculous!

2008-10-31T11:46:00.000-07:00

We’ve all been there at one time or another… reading your bank statement when you notice that there’s an overdraft charge. Maybe you had an unexpected bill payment or you just weren’t able to make a deposit in time. Whatever the reason, it’s frustrating because it feels like you might as well be throwing money out the window. Perhaps there’s even two or three of those overdraft fees on your statement, which could add up to a lot of money debited from your account at the end of the month.

There’s a good reason why you may have been feeling the financial crunch lately from overdraft charges. According to bankrate.com, the 2006 Checking Survey found that bounced check, or non-sufficient funds fees hit a record high of $27.40!

What this boils down to is that the fees associated with a bounced check are even higher than a payday loan finance charge. Payday loans have often gained a bad reputation for giving quick loans with insanely expensive finance charges. But the finance charges associated with the payday loan industry are not as expensive as you may have once thought.

For example, let’s take a $100 payday loan with a fee of $9.31 and an APR of 243%. That’s a rate typically offered to new customers, now compare that to a $100 bounced check with a fee of $27.40 and an APR of 714%! When you look at those figures, it just might make sense to apply for a quick cash advance to get you through until your next payday, rather than bounce a check.

Is the cost of food eating up your budget? Part 2

2008-10-23T13:50:00.000-07:00

As promised, here are a few more tips for saving cash at the grocery store:

On sale doesn’t mean you need it. Stores always have something on sale to entice customers to come in and shop. These items are frequently placed on the end of an aisle so you see them as you go by. This is where sticking to the list really comes in handy. Just because the item is 50% off doesn’t mean you need to buy it. If it is on your list, then that is great and you should get it. But if not, just push the cart past and continue your search for the important stuff.

Avoid the check-out aisle trap. The grocery stores know they have a captive audience as customers wait in line at the check-out counter. For this reason, they stock the shelves near the front with all the miniature items you could possibly want or need. To avoid this, try to do your shopping when the store isn’t as busy. This way you can zip right through the check-out counter without being distracted by the magazines and other goodies.

One last thought that I would like to add…

Try to leave the kids at home. I know you love your little bundles of joy. But it is so much easier to get in and out at the grocery store if the kids are at home. The less time that is spent at the grocery store, the less temptation there is to buy things that you don’t need! Plus, the kids won’t be there to ask for things. If there is another adult at home or close relative, see if they’ll watch the kids while you step out for a few minutes.

Is the cost of food eating up your budget? Part 1

2008-10-17T10:58:00.000-07:00

While it may seem that food expenses are eating a hole in your wallet, there are ways that you can save on this household necessity.

Here are a couple of things that my friend does when he goes to the grocery store…

Eat before you shop. This is by far the most important thing you can do to save yourself from the temptation of buying more food than you actually need. Many grocery stores place their bakery section near the front entrance to entice customers with the wonderful smells of freshly baked bread and desserts. These smells will trigger hunger, and the hungrier you are, the more likely you are to spend more money on things you don’t need. An easy way to avoid this problem is to eat before you go shopping. That way you won’t have any desire to snag a bunch of junk food as you browse the store. You’ll find it much easier to stick to your shopping list. If the timing is not right for a meal, try drinking a couple glasses of water before you go. This will hold you over enough, so that you won’t be looking at all the goodies on the snack aisle.

Stick to your list. Another great principle for saving on food is planning out what you really need on a weekly basis. This will reduce the temptation to make impulse buys, and you’ll find that you can stick to your food plan easier.

Avoid brand names. Brand name items are usually placed at eye level so you can see them easily as you walk down the aisle. The lesser-known brands are placed on the upper and lower shelves, so a bit more searching is required. Manufacturers know that eye level merchandise is more likely to be seen, so they pay a higher stocking price to the stores, which in turn drives up the cost of the brand name items. Save yourself a buck or more and buy the store brand. Odds are it’s just as good as the name brand item.

Getting back on your feet after a storm

2008-10-10T11:29:00.000-07:00

With the recent images of destruction caused by Hurricane Ike, it is easy to see that Mother Nature can be cruel at times. Thousands of dollars are spent due to damage inflicted by natural disasters - roads, homes and businesses all have to be rebuilt. Fortunately, there is assistance available.

Short term disaster relief is always available through organizations like the Salvation Army, American Red Cross and FEMA, also known as the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Local disaster coalition firms and community agencies may also be available for resources after a storm. These organizations provide a quick response to emergency situations caused by disasters like Hurricane Ike. Teams are typically sent after hurricanes, tornados, fires or floods. They often provide immediate needs like temporary shelter, food, water, basic supplies, as well as emotional and spiritual help.

Price gouging is becoming a huge concern to community evacuees before a storm. States like Florida have passed laws that forbid selling emergency goods, such as food, ice, water and fuel, for amounts that exceed the average price at least 30 days before a state of emergency has been announced. The law also applies to building materials, lodging or storage that’s usually needed after storm devastation. The best way to avoid being gouged is to purchase supplies before any warning a storm. Be prepared before hand by having food, bottled water, flashlights, extra batteries and first aid kit readily available if a state of emergency is declared. Store these items away in a garage or an extra closet.

Insurance policies usually assist in the rebuilding of homes after a storm. Homeowners should be sure to understand their policy before a disaster strikes. Coverage for house contents, such as furnishings and décor were once required in policy purchases. But these days, homeowners have the option to waive this type of coverage. Waiving the coverage can reduce monthly premium costs by 10% or more, but homeowners need to be prepared to cover the costs for these items when disaster strikes.

Not all policy benefits are created equal. In a lot of cases, insurance companies won’t pay extra to replace small repairs, such as window screens, unless the insured household decides to purchase optional coverage. Other insurance companies will cap the coverage or have varying rules depending on the state and county where the policy was purchased. Law and ordinance coverage should be considered when purchasing a policy. This coverage type is very important, because it will pay the cost to rebuild your home according to the most current building codes.
When making your claim, be prepared to pay a deductible, which can usually range from $500 to $1,000. Most insurance policies offer a hurricane deductible of $500 - 2%, 5% or 10%. Some state laws fix the hurricane deductible per season, not per storm. In case of a second event, this law allows insurers to require the second deductible to be fulfilled.

For the first time, insurance companies are being allowed to offer deductibles beyond above 10%. But, before making the decision to go for a higher deductible, take a look at your budget to calculate whether you could make repairs yourself or pick up the cost of a large deductible in the event a natural disaster occurs. For example, according to a 15% deductible policy, you would need to have an extra $15,000 to cover the repairs on your home if it endured $100,000 worth of damage during a storm. Once you’ve received your claim check and you’re not satisfied with the amount you received for storm damage, you are entitled to dispute the claim in a confidential, state-sanctioned mediation program.

Financial loose ends can also be a burden after a storm. Loss of work usually means credit card balances piling up, forgotten medical bills or car payments that need to be paid. Places where you can turn when you are in need quick emergency cash needs include lenders available online who make it easy to apply for emergency cash. Often, all you need to have available is your driver’s license and answers to a few personal questions. Any information that online lenders collect is always kept secure. The rates for some types of online loans can seem high, but when the loan is only needed for just a couple of weeks to get you by until your insurance claim check arrives - these lenders offer short term financial relief.

Finding your way out of a bad credit score

2008-10-08T07:34:00.000-07:00

The fastest and easiest way to a perfect credit score is to pay your bills every month on or before the scheduled due date. But even the most reliable bill payers can catch themselves in an occasional slip up.

Take me for example, I recently found myself in a situation where my “Very Good” credit score could’ve been ruined for quite a long time - even years - just from one troubling event. The issue occurred when I assumed that a closed cellular phone account was actually paid in full and actually closed! I never followed up and because of that, found myself being contacted months later by a collection agency for a grand total of $69.76! That’s a small price to pay to potentially ruin credit history, and mine took a huge hit from this situation. After I discovered that it was reported to the credit bureaus, I contacted the collection agency. Eventually (30 to 60 days later), the agency advised the credit bureau to take it off and the issue was finally resolved.

Some ways of staying on top of the credit score game:

The easiest and quickest way to review your credit history is to visit http://www.myfico.com/. For a small fee, you’ll be able to set up an account, get a detailed look at your accounts and credit scores from all three credit bureaus – TransUnion, Experian, and Equifax. Once reviewed, you’re then able to dispute any items that you feel were reported by mistake. The information is accessible for a little over one month – allowing some flexibility in monitoring your scores and fixing any reporting errors.

Keep your debt to income ratio within reason. For example, having a yearly salary of $30,000 and $100,000 in debt – could be a potential danger zone! If you have one too many credit cards, buckle down and pay some of those off. Once the accounts are paid off, leave the accounts open, rather than paying them off immediately. The zero balances are actually better than closed accounts, but be sure to cut them up or keep them out of your sight. That way, you won’t be tempted to use one of them when you see a shirt that you just have to buy.
Also, I’d like to point out that retail or department store cards are useless when it comes to building credit. These types of cards also usually involve ridiculously high interest rates. So, try to stay away from those if possible.

Finally, when you do close accounts, be sure to get a letter mailed to you stating that the account was paid in full and the account was closed at consumer’s request. If you move, have your address changed with all lenders to ensure prompt statements and avoid any bill payment confusion.

Ways to Find a Secure Online Lender

2008-09-18T13:10:00.000-07:00

Financial emergencies can strike at anytime. They occur without any warning and happen to anyone - let's face it, that is just how life works sometimes. The ideal situation would be to have a nice savings account ready for those emergency situations, but unfortunately... that is not the case for most folks.

There are some options out there for those needing cash in a hurry. There's the trusty bank loan, but with the way that the economy has been going lately, it is harder than ever to get approved for a typical bank loan. Luckily, online lenders are there to provide cash help during crises and provide even faster access to financial assistance. Online loans are getting more and more popular, mostly because they are convenient, there's no waiting period, and in most cases - you can get money deposited directly into your bank account or loaded on a cash card. Most online loan companies don’t require faxing or a lot of personal information to get you started.

All of this can be enticing and with the rise of the online loan industry, consumers now have the ability to get the personal loans they need, in a convenient and secure manner. Also, many people with less than perfect credit have benefited greatly from online lending. Online secure loans have allowed consumers the freedom to get the money they need without the hassle of credit checks or waiting in line.

BUT, consumers should still be careful when making the choice to apply for an online loan and keep a few important things in mind when looking for an online lender:

1) You want to make sure that the website is an actual company and not just a marketer. Read the about us page for more information and see what the company says about themselves.

2) Make sure the company is legitimate. Look for a clearly posted phone number or additional contact information.

3) Give the company a call and see if the greeting you receive includes the company name.

4) Look for a business address that is clearly posted on the website. Some companies do not have an actual physical address because they operate solely online. In this case refer to number three.

5) Look to see if the company has posted their business hours on the site.

6) When you go to fill out an application, make sure your personal information is being processed in a Secure Socket Layer. This encrypts the data that you give in your application so that no one else can see it. You’ll know if your date is safe if the http at the top of the page reads https. The S stands for secure.

For more information on secure online lending, please visit Wikipedia and refer to the “Key components of safe eLending.” (Number 9 in the contents list)

College Rules – getting your first credit card

2008-09-12T13:52:00.000-07:00

Your first day of college is such an exciting time. Meeting new people, rushing around from class to class and signing up for as many fun organizations that you can find, are all part of the college experience. But another part of college often involves starting your financial path and there’s always temptation to apply for a credit card. Before making the decision to apply for a credit card, ask yourself a few simple questions.

What is the interest rate? Some credit cards offer rates as low as 12% APR, but a lot of rates for first time card holders can soar into the high 20’s.

Can I make the payment each month? Get one credit card and pay off the balance each month. It’s best to pay off the full amount when the bill is due, but if you can only pay the minimum amount, be prepared to pay a very expensive finance charge. Letting a balance accrue over time not only wastes your money with all of the interests and finance charges, it can also be stressful knowing that you are responsible for paying off huge debt. And with high balances, your credit score can take a downturn. You’ll quickly find yourself in a mountain of bills with no source for paying them all off.

Am I responsible enough to handle this right now? If you are a full time student, you’re probably not working too much. Not working usually means no money. Always keep in mind that, when you use your credit card to make purchases, you will have to pay the amount back! So, don’t go crazy and keep the shopping within reason.

Does the card you’re applying for have any extra incentives? Get rewarded for the things you buy. Most credit card companies now offer point incentives for cash back, free gas or other gifts. Be sure that the card you choose gives you something back.

Although getting that first initial Visa or MasterCard can essentially build your credit, be prepared to follow a strict path to ensure that you don’t stumble into a credit card trap. Stay smart, stick to a plan and you’re sure to be heading down the right financial path!

Saving $100 a week is actually easy - seriously I mean it!

2008-09-03T05:44:00.000-07:00

If you think you can’t save an extra $100 a week, think again. Even in hard financial times, there are some easy steps that you can take that won’t eat into your budget.

Pay yourself a percentage of your paycheck. It doesn’t matter if it’s 10% or 1%. As long as you put away some part of your paycheck consistently, your efforts will pay off in time. If you’re living from paycheck to paycheck and think it’s just not possible to spare another cent for savings, try again.

Think about that iced coffee you just bought – save the leftover change! Every time you buy something with cash, there’s usually some change involved. Instead of throwing that change into your pocket or under the seat, put it into a jar and save it up. You’ll be amazed by what you have after only a few weeks time. Collect your change for a few months and you’ll have a large sum to take to the bank.

Quit eating out for lunch! This may seem tough to do if you like to eat with your co-workers on a regular basis, but this is one of the biggest money drainers of them all. If we figure that the average lunch costs $8 to $10, over 5 working days, that’s $40 to $50 a week that you could be saving. Instead, start packing your lunch every day. With the $40 you would have spent on lunch, you can purchase enough groceries for a week’s worth of lunches and dinners. Why pay someone $10 to make you a sandwich when you can do it for $2 or less by yourself? You’ll also save on gasoline by not slogging through lunch hour traffic every day just to grab a bite to eat.

Get a wholesale club card. Buying in bulk can be a great way to save on things like paper towels, disposable diapers and other short-term usage items. There is a membership fee of $40, but the savings you’ll see in just a few months time will more than pay for it.

Need it or Want it? Magazine subscriptions, a new pair of shoes or the latest cell phone might be things you want, but do you really need them? Before making an impulse buy, evaluate the purchase and ask yourself if it’s absolutely necessary. When you stop and think about it, you might save yourself a lot of money on impulse buying.

Cash Crisis Help - for ALL credit scores

2008-08-19T13:24:00.000-07:00

When it comes to financial emergencies, experts suggest having at least three months salary saved in the bank and $200 cash available in your home. But let’s face it… most of us aren’t that prepared and getting caught up in a cash crisis can be a stressful time for anyone who doesn’t have a plan in place. Fortunately, there are some easily accessible funding options that can help people get out of debt and get back on track toward financial freedom…even with bad credit.

Traditional bank loans are the most popular choice for those needing to borrow funds, but applying for one can sometimes be a hassle with time wasted on tons of paper work. Bank lending also typically involves larger amounts of money loaned for longer periods of time. Paying off the loan over a longer period means varying interest rates.

Obtaining a credit card can sometimes seem like the easiest option. But beware… every time you apply for a credit card, your credit history is checked and your credit score takes a downturn! The more credit cards you have - the lower your credit rating.

Car title lenders offer a way to borrow cash against the equity in your vehicle. One of the many downsides to this type of lending is that it requires a vehicle that is less than 10 years old, as well as several other items to get started with the loan process. These items include the car title (free of all liens), drivers license, social security card, registration, proof of auto insurance, recent paycheck stub, current utility bills, four references and a spare set of car keys!

Payday loan lending is another option and it is, in my opinion, the least intrusive. It’s perfect for people with bad credit who need cash quick - less than 24 hours in most cases. Payday loan lending consists of small, short term loans and unlike bank loans, payday loans are unsecured, meaning that no collateral is required. A payday loan is typically much faster than a traditional loan, because of the absence of paperwork. With online payday loans, the customer fills out the application online and submits it for approval. Online payday loans offer even more benefits like convenience, privacy and quicker loan decision processing time.

The typical payday loan amount is $100 to $500 (although some lenders do offer loans up to $1500) and it is taken out for a two week period. The usual payday loan fee is $15 per $100. A few payday loan companies offer low introductory rates of around $9 to $10 per $100 borrowed by new customers. Many online payday loan companies do not conduct a detailed credit check, which provides another option for consumers with less than perfect credit. The only paperwork required for most payday loan lenders includes two recent pay stubs for proof of employment and a recent bank statement.

ALWAYS search around for the best rates before applying for any type of loan!

Beat the heat, without beating your bank account

2008-08-07T13:09:00.000-07:00

Summertime is synonymous to fun, but one of the not so fun truths about summer is high utility bills. Cranking up the air conditioner and watering your lawn can add up to hundreds of dollars spent each summer. Some of those dollars can be saved with just a few quick adjustments around the house that may seem like obvious cost savers to some, but are often overlooked.

When you leave the house, turn off all of your small appliances. If you cook, be sure to turn the oven off when you’re finished and after leaving a room, switch off the lights. If you’re buying new appliances, be sure you buy ones with the “Energy Star” tag.

Going out of town? Be sure to turn off the cooling system before you leave. Old ideas out there told you that turning your air conditioner on and off can cost more that leaving it on at the highest temperature. But if you’ll be out of town for an extended amount of time, it is very wasteful to leave it running. When you’re simply running out for a quick errand or to work, increase the AC temperature and turn ceiling fans on for added circulation around the house. If it’s cool enough outside to have the windows open, you might think about leaving the fan on all day to help cool the inside and ditch the air conditioner completely.

Make sure the seal on your refrigerator is good and tight. If it isn’t, your refrigerator will be sucking more power to keep the inside temperature cool. Be sure to have your refrigerator in the coolest spot in the kitchen, away from the oven and out of the sun. If you live in a warm climate area, don’t put your refrigerator in the garage, as this could double your energy costs.

Also, turn off your computer when you’re gone. Unless you’re using your computer as a server or you just like having it on when you get home, there’s no point in running it all day long. The typical PC consumes around 300 watts. If you use your computer for about 4 hours a day, then that’s 20 hours of wasted energy if you leave it running all day. If electricity cost 10 cents per kilowatt-hour in your area, then the 20 hours represents 60 cents a day, which adds up to $219 per year.

Never let your finances force you to eat unhealthy food.

2008-08-05T10:47:00.000-07:00

Eating healthy should never be a sacrifice, no matter what your financial circumstances may be. Eating from the dollar menu at McDonalds may have been an option for you when you were younger, but better food choices are a must as you begin to approach your 20’s and 30’s. Eating healthy isn’t always the easiest thing to do, and certainly not the cheapest. But, while it can be tough to find better food items for you and your family, there are a few things you can do to give yourself a step up on eating healthier and still save money!

Try to shop right after eating a meal, in this way, you won’t have that hunger urge while you’re looking for healthy food. Many people have a tendency to want junk food when they’re hungry, instead of the healthy stuff. Reason being - it looks tastier.
Before heading to the grocery store, plan out a week’s worth of meals. This will give you an idea of what you really need and lower the temptation to browse instead of shop. Research has shown that shoppers who don’t bring a list tend to buy more food, especially of the snacking variety.
Look for a store’s weekly specials and clip coupons for in-store brands. Generic brands are less expensive and generally have the same nutritional value.
Try growing your own fruits and veggies or find a local farmer’s market. Their produce should be cheaper and is usually fresh picked straight from the crop.
Warehouse grocers, like Sam’s Club or Costco, have also started offering healthier, organic choices in bulk – so you pay a lot less.
Swap out sugary snacks for some baby carrots, raisons, or unsalted nuts. These will fill you up a lot quicker than a Twinkie or a donut.

Easy (and CHEAP) ways to keep fun in the family!

2008-07-29T06:28:00.000-07:00

In these harsh economical times, it’s easy to get down in the dumps about low cash flow. But it’s important to keep your head up and still make time to have some family fun. There are several ways to keep within a tight budget, while still showing the kids a great time.

1. Staying home for dinner and going out for dessert is a great way to save. If you really want to eat out, many family restaurants have nights where kids eat free or other discounts. In addition, sign up for a coupon book that contains all kinds of discounts for local eateries and other entertainment in the area. The Sunday paper usually contains lunch coupons, and if you don’t mind eating before the rush, you can save with early bird specials.

2. Instead of paying to see the latest big blockbuster, pick up movies that the entire family can watch from your local library or swap movies with friends to borrow for a few days. Make popcorn and other snacks to make it really special. If you want to enjoy that theater feeling, go for an afternoon movie or visit a $2 movie theater if it’s available in your city.

3. Forget about the expensive amusement parks or laser tag. Pack a lunch, take a football or Frisbee, and head out to a local park for an afternoon of fun in the sun. Beat the summer heat with a trip to the pool or other local watering hole. When the snow flurries start to fall, grab the inner tubes and head for the nearest sledding hill.

4. Set aside a specific day in the week to be game night. Have a special treat just for that evening. Whether its board games, card games, or a video game battle, this time can be great bonding that doesn’t cost you anything.

I DO... promise to save money and still have a great wedding.

2008-07-16T06:46:00.000-07:00

With my upcoming weekend nuptial drawing nearer...and considering the average cost of a wedding in the United States is spiraling toward $30,000*, I’ve been inspired to provide some money saving tips for wedding costs. These days, couples are waiting longer to get married and relying less on parents to pick up the tab. And it’s never a good idea to begin a marriage with lots of debt. Luckily, there are a lot of great ways to have a beautiful ceremony, without breaking the bank.

1. Timing is everything

When it comes to saving money, the time you have your wedding can make a huge difference. Schedule your wedding during the off season, which is typically in the late fall and winter. There will be less competition from other couples for vendors, so they might be more willing to negotiate their prices. Having your wedding on any other day than a Saturday will also drive down costs.

2. Trim the guest list

One of the quickest ways to cut down on costs is to reduce the guest list. You’ll not only save catering expenses, but also on alcohol, invitations, and favors. Don’t invite anyone out of obligation, including distant relatives, coworkers, and high school friends. Also, consider limiting the number of people in the wedding party to save on gifts and wedding day attire.

3. Cut out some of the extras

Little things like, save-the-date cards, ceremony programs, and favors all add precious dollars to your final bill. Forgo all those extras no one will miss, so you can spend money on more important things, like the photography, the entertainment, and the food. Do you really want to cut out a videographer because you spent too much on monogrammed napkins and matchbooks? Choose (and spend) wisely.

4. Do it yourself

Another way to save money is to make some of the items yourself. Many computer programs exist to help you design and print your own invitations. Fabric and craft stores carry patterns and materials to make bridal veils, ring bearer pillows and flower girl dresses. Look for community colleges and centers for classes on flower arranging and make the bouquets and centerpieces yourself. You can keep your budget on track with just a little ingenuity and hard work.

Enlist your friends and family

Have talented friends? If they agree to it, recruit them to help out with your wedding! Does your fiancé have a friend who’s a culinary connoisseur? Ask if he or she will make your cake or help cater the wedding. Have a younger sister who is currently in cosmetology school? She can help with the bridesmaids’ hair and makeup. If you can’t think of anyone, try networking with friends, family, and colleagues. Even if one of your coworkers can’t get you their cousin’s band for free, they might be able to swing you a hefty discount.

*Reported by The Wall Street Journal

Reducing Your Utility Costs Has A Savings Benefit

2008-07-03T06:36:00.000-07:00

During difficult financial times, we often begin to look out how we’re spending money. Cutting costs often means going out to eat less, wearing last summer’s wardrobe or settling for the generic brand. But you can also save a ton of money (and a ton of energy and water) just by paying closer attention to how you’re spending your time at home.

Replace conventional light bulbs with the new energy efficient light bulbs, they are four times as powerful and will last ten times as long.

Keep your thermostat set no higher than 68 degrees in winter and no lower than 70 degrees in summer (we have agreed on 72 degrees at my house). If you have ceiling fans, turn those on to increase air circulation throughout your home (this uses very little energy). In winter, every degree higher can raise heating costs by 3%. In summer, every degree lower can raise cooling costs by 6%.

Set your hot water heater temperature between 110 and 120 degrees. Having the temperature any higher is unnecessary and is wasted energy.

Stick to doing large loads of laundry which use about 21 gallons of water. Avoid doing several small loads, which each use about 14 gallons of water. By doing one large load instead of several small ones, you can save around 7 gallons of water. It might not seem like much, but over the course of a year, it will add up.

Don’t run the dishwasher unless it’s a full load and instead of using the heat cycle, let the dishes air dry.

Try taking shorter, cooler showers and if you just have to take a hot bath – try to limit it to once a week.

Financial Documents: To Keep or To Toss?

2008-06-18T13:02:00.000-07:00

In this day and age of online banking and account management, it’s good to know what physical items to keep around in case of an emergency. On the other hand, there’s no point in having excess paper documents clog up your filing cabinet.
What you should Keep
Paper documents like a will, insurance and a retirement plan are definite keepers. If you haven’t already, you should keep these things in a secure area like a bank safety deposit box or a fireproof safe. Also things like separation and divorce documents, real estate deeds, titles and tax returns for the last seven years are a must as well. Make sure you keep those pay stubs until the end of the year as well to compare the year end totals with the W2 forms from your employer.
What you should Toss
The documents that you can toss include things like bank receipts and ATM transactions, once you’ve checked that all the transactions are correct on your bank statement. The same goes for bills that have been paid and you know the checks have been cashed. Shred all the documents you discard. If you don’t own a shredder, you might be able to use one at work. If you have a wood burning fireplace, use a few of your documents as fire starter and then curl up next to the fire with a book while the rest of the unwanted paper keeps you nice and toasty.

None of us are perfect, but all of us can save

2008-06-13T11:59:00.000-07:00

Let’s face it, none of us are perfect, especially when there’s money involved. I admit that occasional retail therapy can be just the thing after a really bad day, but then I get home and usually say, “What did I just buy?” and “What in the world am I going to wear with purple shoes?” It’s easy to rationalize purchases as they’re being made, but those purchases often lead to regret and can make saving money an almost impossible task!

If you’re interested in overcoming any retail therapy urges and saving some money too, here’s some absolutely easy advice for doing just that. Oh yeah, and keep the receipt for that recent impulse purchase and you'll have no problems returning it.

*Stash the Card and Use Cash
One of the best ways you can put a halt on your dollars flying out the door is to drastically cut down your use of credit cards. The “swipe now and pay later” game can lead to an unhealthy habit, a ton of fees and a mountain of debt. Instead of paying with credit, budget out a set amount of cash you’ll need for the week, and try to stick to it. The next time you get the urge to pull out the old credit card, just use the cash in your pocket for the things you really need. You might even try leaving your credit card(s) at home.

*Keep Track and File Away
Organize your finances and bills. This won’t take much time and will really save you the hassle of missing a bill payment here and there. Create a filing folder or cabinet for all your bills and keep track of when each bill is due. If possible, try to get your bills paid a few days early so there’s no chance of being charged a late fee. After you have paid a bill you can write ‘paid,’ the date, and the check number on it so you have a clear record that it’s done and then stick it in your filing folder for at least a year.

*Do You Really Need That?
Trim some fat by canceling unnecessary subscriptions to monthly magazines, organizations, clubs, or other memberships. The money you save from these might not seem like much at first, but a year’s worth of subscriptions can be a good start on a savings plan.

*Be Choosey
Do some comparative shopping for things like phone, television, and internet service to find the best rates around. More often than not, these providers usually offer some kind of special discount. Voice-over-internet (VOI) service providers like Skype provide phone service over the internet for less than $3 per month, which is a great deal if you don’t mind logging on to make your calls.

*Record and Reflect
Keep a record of your daily expense for one week. This will make it clear exactly where your money is going. Then you can decide whether or not you really need to get that double mocha latte every morning. Eating out for lunch every day can cost you an average of $40 or more a week ($8 per lunch), so try packing a lunch instead. You’ll be surprised what $40 worth of groceries can get you if you’re a smart shopper. You can still enjoy a meal out once in a while, but to really see the savings, try limiting dining out to once a week.

*Stash it and Forget about It
The best way to save money is to start saving! A good rule of thumb is to set aside 10% from you paycheck for a retirement fund or savings account. If you can’t do that, try putting 5% away. If you can do more, go for it, you’ll only reach your goal quicker! After a year or two you’ll find that paying yourself first is extremely beneficial and you’ll have a great base from which to build a long-term retirement plan.

The grass isn’t always so green…

2008-06-09T12:09:00.000-07:00

“To Have - is To Spend” is the philosophy for most Americans. We often find ourselves too caught up in keeping up with the Jones’ to keep up with our finances. We get lost in having the perfect car, a large house or fancy dinners. In the end, that behavior may leave you with a depreciating, gas guzzling SUV, a home you can’t afford or less than perfect credit scores.
…But there are ways to get back on track. A great start is saving money with some of these easy tips:

Have a Monster Garage Sale Take a look inside your closets, see any junk back there? What about mom’s storage unit where you’ve kept junk for the past 5 years? If you haven’t used it in six months, consider collecting all the stuff you really don’t need and selling it. Remember, one person’s junk is another person’s treasure. Who knows, you could end up with $100, $1000 or maybe even more.

Drink Water Forget the soft drinks at lunch, and order water with lemon. You could save an average of $250-$350 each year and it’s healthier too - some studies show that drinking http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2006-10-24-water-diet_x.htm water can help you lose weight.

Leave the Car at Home If you can, try carpooling with a friend or ride public transportation to work. This saves on gas, maintenance and insurance costs, not to mention being able to relax a bit on the ride home.

Buy Used Items such as clothing can be purchased at consignment shops with slightly used and name-brand items. Depending on where you live, you might be able to find some incredible deals on quality brands, at less than half the price. Over the course of a year, you could save half the money you spend on clothing.

Spend More Time at Home According to recent statistics, the average household spends an annual total of around $2,300 on entertainment. Just going to the movies can be outrageously expensive. Instead, rent a movie, read some good books or have some game nights with your friends. Your local library is an excellent source for free rentals of movies, books and music. If you’re feeling adventurous, find a local park or state park and do some hiking. There’s no substitute for good old fashioned exercise in the fresh air.

Cut up Some Cards Try cutting up some of your credit cards. Most of us have at least a few credit cards, and the less you have, the better off you’ll be. Try to consolidate your expenditures onto one card, which will make it easier to keep track of how much you’re spending.

Pack a Lunch Eating out with the gang for lunch every day might be nice, but it can burn a hole in your wallet very fast. If the average lunch costs around $7, that’s a total of $1750 a year (5 lunches per wk times 50 wks a yr). Bump it up to $10 per lunch a day and that’s $2500 a year. Instead, try planning out your meals for the week and packing a lunch accordingly. You’ll be amazed at how much you can save, not only on food, but on the cost of gas driving to and from the restaurant.