Are you considering getting a pet?
Before buying a pet make sure you are able to afford the ongoing health care and food expenses this will create.
Are your appliances energy efficient?
New appliances use less electricity than older models.
Avoid high credit card balance interest
If you are carrying a balance on your credit card contact your financial institution to see if they are able to lower your credit card interest rate. If you have trouble controlling your spending evaluate with a financial planner what your credit limit should be.
Enjoy your vacation within your means
Determine how much money you have to set aside each pay period for your vacation. When money is tight make use of government resources such as parks and zoos or engage in inexpensive activities such as having a picnic.
Ensure your attic is well ventilated
This increases the life expectancy of your homes shingles.
Freecycle
The goal of Freecycling is to keep quality products which are no longer needed out of landfill sites. Learn more at www.freecycle.org.
How effective is your heating equipment?
A tune up of your furnace may lower the cost of the winter heating season. A programmable thermostat may help you save money at night while you are asleep. Also ensure vents or baseboard heaters are not obstructed by shoes, carpets, etc.
Know how you spend your money
Save all your receipts for twelve consecutive months. Look back on how you spend your money. Are you staying within your allotted budget?
Know your charitable giving limit
Determine how much money your income allows you to donate to charitable organizations and spend on family members and friends in need.
Make effective use of your dishwasher, washing machine and dryer.
Run loads of laundry and dishes when you have a full load to be washed.
Make use of your local library
Books, magazines, videos and frequently Internet access are available for you to use and borrow.
Plan your outings
Planning ahead to do multiple errands when you are out will cut down on your vehicle use and the cost of maintenance. This will also free up some time you would otherwise be spending traveling to stores.
Review your telephone plan
Ensure your home phone and cell phone plans are the right ones for your lifestyle. Running out of minutes, text messaging and exceeding long distance quotas becomes very expensive very quickly. On the same token ensure you your plan isn't larger than your needs. Even when you are on a contract customer care may be able to move you to a different plan or features that meets your present day needs and doesn't cause you to have overage charges.
Save on heating and cooling expenses
Routinely check the windows and doors at your home for air tightness and signs of wear and tear around the edges. A tube of caulking will pay for itself in savings from heating and cooling loss. Well insulating your attic is a way to lower your winter heating expenses without disrupting your living space.
Set aside money for emergencies
Having money available in the event of unexpected sickness and home renovations makes tougher times easier to navigate through. Money which is borrowed needs to be paid back.
Talk with a financial planner
A financial planner isn't just for individuals with a high income. A financial planner will help you set goals and manage your money wisely.
