10 Easy Ways to Save Money

Are you on a budget? Are you looking for ways to save money without making a drastic change in your lifestyle? These days, many people are trying to find easy ways to save a few extra bucks a month. They are wanting tips on how to save on gas, tips on saving dollars when grocery shopping, and tips on saving some extra money by doing simple things. Not only can you cut down on the cost of your utilities by turning up or down your thermostat, use flourescent bulbs instead of incandescent bulbs, or keep major appliances unplugged while away from home...there are other ways to save, ways that won't put your lifestyle in the damper.

1. Buy generic brands vs. name brands.

Most places you shop, have their own store brand of your favorite products. You can save quite a bit of money, and the products are usually just as good as the name brand ones.

2. Put your savings in a money market account.

These accounts accumulate interest every month. The bank pays a higher interest rate than an ordinary savings account, and you still maintain unlimited access to your money.

3. Pay off your credit cards.

Once you pay off your credit cards, preferably the one's with the highest interest rate first, then be wise with your money - Don't spend money you don't have. If you do use your credit card to purchase something because you don't want to pay for it at that time, then as soon as you get the bill pay it off in full to avoid paying high interest rates.

4. Up your deductibles on house and car insurance.

Doing this will save you a lot of money. Tailor your coverage to what you really need, and shop around wisely for the best deals on insurance.

5. Clip the coupons.

Make sure you clip coupons out of those Sunday papers. You can save a substantial amount just by doing this. Every little bit adds up.

6. Cut down on eating out.

Limit the amount of times you dine out. Aim for once a week. Stick to a budget.

7. Don't buy the latest & greatest.

Within a couple months, these new items will most likely go down in price.

8. Cut down on gas.

Remove heavy, unneeded items from your trunk. Keep tire pressure at recommended level. Add fuel injector cleaner to a full tank every 3,000 miles to improve gas mileage.

9. Don't go grocery shopping when you're hungry.

You'll end up buying more than you went in for.

10. Keep the spare change.

All those pennies, nickels, dimes, and quarters add up. Get your kids involved. Use a large, glass jar and when it is full, get the coins rolled. Whatever is saved up can be used for a trip to dairy queen, a new movie, etc.