• Track spending: every dollar
  
  
• List Current fixed and variable expenses
  
  
• List Current income

• 6 months
  
  
• 1 year
  
  
• 5 years

• Lower cost of HVAC (raise or lower thermostat)
  
  
• Lower cost of Electric (fewer lights, turn lights off)
  
  
• Become a better shopper
  
  
• Prepare a menu for the whole week
  
  
• Shop once a week
  
  
• No impulse buying
  
  
• Do not shop hungry
  
  
• Eat out on exception only
  
  
• Reduce cost of all paper products
  
  
• Sell car and buy a cheaper used car
  
  
• Perform routine maintenance (oil, lube)
  
  
• Create a yearly clothing budget
  
  
• Plan to buy during sales and closeouts
  
  
• No impulse buying!

• Get estimates for all insurance
  
  
• Check current insurance vs. needs
  
  
• Work with capable insurance agent

• Plan vacation off season or at very beginning of season
  
  
• Plan trips closer to home
  
  
• Plan a vacation to suit your budget
  
  
• Find fun activities that are inexpensive

• Reconcile checkbook every month
  
  
• Separate savings and checking accounts
  
  
• Paycheck disbursement in each account
  
  
• Checking for monthly bills
  
  
• Money Market for annual or non-monthly
  
  
• Vacation
  
  
• Retirement
  
  
• 3-6 months emergency fund
  
  
• Analyze budget to see true impact of $6 per lunch per day or $200 month in restaurants
  
  
• Control impulse spending
  
  
• Large items – wait 3 days, pray
  
  
• Small items – only in budget
  
  
• Plan for blow money that each spouse can agree on

<<<Back to Featured Articles