How to Save Money Any Way You Can: Get Out of Debt and Stay Out of Debt

I have some ideas on how to save money if you are in debt, become unemployed, disabled temporarily or permanently. I am currently on disability and a few years back when the job situation was really bad I was unemployed for close to a year. One thing you can do, at least in California, is to get a discount on your gas and electric bill. Check your bill next time you get it or go on the internet and check out the requirements on their web site. You can save up to 20 %! Also, don't use appliances till after 7:00 p.m. if at all possible and close blinds in the summer and use fans to stay cool. Open blinds in the winter to stay warm.

More Tips on Saving and Earning Money

You may also be able to lower your phone bill if you don't use the phone too much. You may be able to save a lot by changing your internet service provider as well. You can pay bills on the net and save on envelopes, stamps and checks if you have your own computer. Pay through the company website rather than your bank, because the company websites are free of charge. With more time on your hands you can earn some money getting paid to write on the internet, doing paid on line surveys and using points earning sites. You can order free samples from free sample web sites such as Freebie Jeebies, Twisted Branches, Walmart and Start Sampling.

Some of My Favorite Websites to Earn Money

I recommend the following internet survey sites, My Survey, Gather, My Lot, Associated Content, My Points, Lightspeed Research Panel and Global Test Market. Also if you have a printer you can check on coupons and rebates for groceries, etc. If you have an old car you can get your insurance coverage cut way down by getting rid of comprehensive and collision, (I was even able to do that over the internet). You may want to check in to changing companies. You can also do your banking on your bank's website, saving you from going to the bank and saving on gas as well.

Get Rid of Things You Don't Need and Take Advantage of What You Can

You can sell things you no longer need, give homemade gifts for holidays and find some great deals at the dollar stores. If, and only if you can handle using a credit card, (where you are able to pay off the full balance every month) I recommend using Discover Card. The more money you put on the card the more cash or credit you get back. Again, you can save on checks and trips to the bank. If you can't handle credit cards, don't use them now! I put everything on my card, groceries, gas and electric and my phone bill so I can get more cash back.

Keep Your Health Coverage if Possible

Make sure you get COBRA Coverage, (continuing health coverage), if you can afford it. One accident or illness can wipe you out completely these days. Also, let your doctors or dentist know about your situation. If they know about it, they may lower your bill temporarily and if you need prescriptions they can give you free samples.

Don't Put Off Calling Unemployment

You have to call the Unemployment Office the day after you're laid off. The rest is done on the internet. If you don't have a computer at home, you can use a family member's or friend's computer. If that's not possible, you can go to your local library.

You Will Be Surprised About What You Can Do With Out

I found out you can live with out cable tv if you have to. Also, using fans or using the air conditioner less. In the winter you can dress extra warm and keep the thermostat turned down. If you have or had a 401k or an IRA, don't take any money out, but stop contributing to it right away for the time being, until you can get caught up again. You will probably need that money for your health insurance. If you have any bonds you've been hanging on to, now the's the time to turn them in. If you have a good friend or family member who needs a roommate, make the offer only if you get along really well or if you are really desperate. Establish some house rules before they move in.

I Hope I've Helped You Out

Hopefully, you will be inspired to come up with some original ideas of your own. You never know what's around the next turn in life, so it really is a good idea to save up for a rainy day. Don't spend more then what you've got and put yourself in to debt, like most of us do. Be prepared for a constantly changing economy, an unforeseen job loss or even a temporary disability. You will save yourself a lot of stress.