Five Ways to Add Money to Your Savings Account

Most consumers today are learning a new habit, saving. Many survived over the last 10 years on easy credit, large credit limits and flexible terms. Today savings are replacing those plastic cards of the past. Saving isn't a easy habit and may even require a change in lifestyle. But the positive effect is less debt and more comfort in preparing for a "rainy day." Just a few changes in spending can make a huge difference by the end of year. Here are five easy to do ideas. The main purpose is not only spend less, but to take the money and place it into a savings account each day.

Dining Out Coupons

Vendors offer dining out coupons to help bring customers into their establishments. Usually these coupons can be found online, in mailers or in the local newspapers. Many of them offer 2 for 1 deals. Deals can also be purchased at Restaurants.Com. Most of us like to eat out at least once a week. According to www.msn.com, we spend an average of $2904 dollars on dining outside our home.. IF consumers take advantage of dining coupons, they could save an average of a little over $1400 added to our savings account.

Specialty Coffees

I have to admit, I too am addicted to having coffee my way. The cost of this luxury item is $5.08. Over time this Starbucks habit can be way too costly. In a year that amount spent adds up to over $1800. Although I don't purchase the coffee seven days a week, many of us do. It's time to kick the habit and enjoy a cup of coffee at home and us a to go container.

Grocery Coupons

Personally, I have been using grocery coupons since college. When every cents saved meant more for the next day. Today, I use them simply because it is a easy way to save. On average, when purchasing a large amount of groceries, I save around $20-$50 dollars each week. This translates into anywhere from $1040 to $2600 into savings. Grocery coupons can be found online, at retail website such as Target, that allows you to double coupon, using theirs and the manufacturers, and in the Sunday newspapers.

Netflix

It has been reported by www.favstock.com, movie attendance is at the lowest level since 1997. Considering the price of a ticket in most areas is around $10 and add in another $12 for snacks and drinks, a family of four could easily spend $100 dollars not including gas, to see a less than 2 hour movie. Why see a movie, when for less than the cost of a movie, you can watch movies on your computer or TV. It makes more financial sense and then add in homemade popcorn and snacks, you have just created a great family night. Just one movie a week with a family of four is over $5000, for a couple $2500.

Personal Grooming

According to the website heartkeepercommonroom.blogspot.com, American women spend a average of around $12,000 to $15,000 on personal grooming and products. The number may seem staggering, but take a look under your sink and you will probably find that to be true. There are several ways to approach cutting back on these costs. First, choose a hairstyle that doesn't require constant cutting to maintain. Second, if can't cutback on haircuts and coloring, try doing your nails at home. Finally, try purchasing your favorite products in bulk or larger sizes to cut back on the cost. Just a 10% reduction means $1000 in your savings account.

If we add up the total amount of money available using these five ways listed above, we arrive at more than $5000 minimum. As Americans become more accustom to savings, this number will increase. Please fee free to comment on additional money saving ideas that can add up to a nice healthy balance in your savings.