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Dean
13 Vampire Energy Sucking Devices In Your Home
Did you know there are vampires in your home right now? This is not a Halloween story. It’s real. They are sucking the life out of your household energy budget. I’m talking about energy vampires, the gadgets and appliances that drain your electricity and your wallet even when you are not using them.
There are so many devices that have a standby mode, which means they use up energy even when turned off. Vampire power can cost you up to 10% of your electric bill. In fact, on a national basis, standby power accounts for more than 100 billion kilowatt hours of annual U.S. electricity consumption and more than $10 billion in annual energy costs.
The first challenge is to identify products that draw standby power. Here are clues to recognizing products that draw power continuously:
* Remote control
* External power supply
* Digital display, LED status light, or digital clock
* Contains a battery charger
* Has soft-touch key-pad
A product with one or more these features will have standby power use; however, other products won’t have any of these and may still have standby. The only way to be sure is to measure them with a meter.
Here are the 13 worst energy suckers, followed by ways to drive the proverbial stake through the heart of their vampire-like behavior:
1. Set-top box for TV (such as a DVR, VCR or cable box)
2. Television – rear projection and plasma TV’s are the worst offenders
3. Desktop and laptop computers
4. Audio systems – powered subwoofers are the biggest energy suckers
5. Printers and scanners
6. CD and DVD players
7. Cordless telephone
8. Fax machine
9. Wireless router
10. Microwave oven
11. External USB hard drive
12. DSL modem
13. Computer monitors
EASY WAYS TO SLAY THE ENERGY VAMPIRES
Use a power strip as a central "turn off" point when you are done using equipment, which completely disconnects the power supply. You can use one for your computer and all peripheral equipment, and another for your home electronics (TV, VCR, DVD, stereo, gaming). Keep in mind, however, that if you’ve set a timer to wake up a product, such as programming a DVR or VCR to record a program, then the product must remain plugged in (and able to draw standby power) to function as intended.
Unplug your chargers: cell phone chargers, camera chargers, battery chargers or power adapters, etc. These are drawing some amount of energy even when not in use (and even when not connected to an end-use product).
Buy low-standby products if you can find them. Look for products labeled Energy Star, which means they meet certain government guidelines for energy savings. Get more help from the U.S. Dept. of Energy at: www.energystar.gov
Photo courtesy of Flickr
Broke College Student? 25 Ways To Save Money In College
College is expensive but hopefully with these tips you can get the most bang for your buck. Feel free to leave a comment on your own college money savings tips.
1. Get a free checking and savings account. Many banks offer “student” accounts that don’t charge the fees that some other accounts have. Look for free online banking and bill paying.
2. Always keep your check register with you, to track your balance and make sure to avoid overdraft fees, which happen when you don’t have enough in the account to cover your checks. A lot of banks also offer mobile phone websites or apps, so you can bank from anywhere.
3. Empty your pockets and save that spare change. Count it yourself…come on, you’re in college…not as if you need to pay for those coin-counting machines.
4. Don’t drink. That’s a surefire way to flush your money down the drain.
5. If you decide to drink anyway, buy the cheap brands.
6. Take advantage of specials at college bars and dance clubs. If you don’t have to get up early for class the next day, you can to go out on a weeknight and enjoy lower prices then, too.
7. Other people’s parties – be there.
8. When you go out, don’t bring your whole wallet or purse. Ration out a small amount of cash to limit your spending.
9. Why buy new? Before you shell out for a textbook, borrow one if possible.
10. If you can’t borrow, buy used college textbooks. Try Amazon or Barnes and Noble online.
11. Cheap college food in two words: ramen noodles. If you can afford it, thrown in some vegetables and/or meat, and you have a complete meal.
12. Take advantage of your campus meal plan – eat at the college cafeteria, or if you have a declining cash balance plan, make sure you use up those dollars at approved dining locations; some schools don’t allow you to carry over dining dollars to the next year.
13. Save $2,000 during your college career by brewing your own coffee. Buy a decent coffee maker or ask for one for as a gift.
14. Skip the fast food and late night take-out. Keep healthy, affordable snacks in your dorm room or apartment – cheese, whole wheat bread, instant oatmeal, peanut butter and fruit are all good choices.
15. Avoid high-end gourmet markets; find out where the poor people shop, such as discount groceries. Don’t forget to clip coupons, too.??
16. For a date, kick your roommates out for the evening, and prepare a simple candlelight meal.
17. If you’re buying a computer, save by shopping the student specials; discounts, rebates and back to school specials. Apple Computer offers student discounts and rebates to students and teachers. And many schools negotiate special deals with manufacturers; check with your college store or the college IT department.
18. Forget about the TV; just watch cable television through your computer. Make sure your desktop or laptop has a DVD/CD player and you can also watch your favorite movies.
19. You also don’t need a stereo. Get a good set of computer speakers, preferably with a separate woofer to boost the bass. Then play away from your iTunes music library.
20. Why pay high movie ticket prices? Take advantage of your flexible schedule and hit the weekday matinee showings, which are cheaper. Also look for free movies on campus.
21. Offer your services as a tutor. Pick your best one or two subjects. Try posting your services on Craigslist.
22. It costs little or nothing to enjoy a picnic, a long walk, flying a kite, a pick up game of basketball, soccer or football, a card game or reading a good book which you can find in your college library.
23. Check your college paper and local websites for free upcoming events such as concerts, arts and crafts fairs, theater, festivals, art galleries, and museums.
24. Living on an upper floor will typically keep you warmer in the winter, but it’ll get hotter in the summer. If you go to school in a region where winters are longer then upper floors are smart, otherwise live low.
25. When it’s time to head home, check Amtrak or Greyhound for student discounts.
Dean writes:
Being broke in college brings back fond memories. It also makes me realize I’m getting older. Here are some of my personal favorite money saving tips from college
- I never did this but I have heard of people scanning text books so they don’t have to buy them.
- Always try to carry with you a nice reusable water bottle so you don’t get tempted to buy soft drinks or bottled water.
- House or dorm parties are a lot cheaper than going to the club.
- Try going to discounted college theater play or sports game for a cheap date.
- Sport drinks are nice after working out but so is water. Buy a water filter and use it.
- Your college ID probably gets your deals at restaurants so use them to cheap meals.
Photo Credit via Flickr
36 Ways To Get Healthy & Fatten Your Wallet
Bad health costs you your well-being and happiness, and shortens your life expectancy. But it also costs you money in health care expenses and medications. Here are three dozen top tips to save your life and your money.
1. Smoking - Everyone knows that smoking is deadly, and expensive too. It also aggravates allergies, and costs you more in cleaning bills to get the smoke smell out of your clothes. Quitting smoking reduces your risk or cancer while helping improve your respiratory system and allergies. And think of all the money you’ll save on cigarettes.
2. Drinking – Drinking takes a toll, not only on your budget but if you drink a lot, you could face a whole host of problems such as alcoholism, liver damage, chronic dehydration, a weak immune system, psychological problems and weight gain.
3. Junk Food - An occasional treat is okay, but a regular diet of hamburgers, fries and milkshakes is a lot of empty calories. You’ll eat healthier and cheaper if you make a sandwich at home.
4. Unsafe sex – Don’t put yourself at risk for AIDS and other diseases.
5. Tanning - According to some reports, tanning can more than double your risk of getting skin cancer. Stick with bronzers and fake tanners, both of which are cheaper than tanning salon visits.
6. Drug abuse – Drugs are expensive and wreck your health. Get help if you need to kick an addiction. Visit a health clinic if you don’t have money to get treatment.
7. Too much coffee – Excess caffeine affects your digestion, hurts your teeth, and ability to sleep.
8. Take vitamins – Ward off anemia with iron supplements, and avoid osteoporosis by taking calcium.
9. Drink (tap) water – Skip the sodas and other bottled drinks, and enjoy more glasses of water. You’ll save money, your skin will glow, and you’ll feel more energetic.
10. Get a good night’s sleep – Did you know that0Alack of sleep heightens the risk for a variety of major illnesses, including cancer, heart disease, diabetes and obesity? And you need sufficient rest to recharge your immune system.
11. Exercise – Strengthen your heart and live longer with simple walking or running; you don’t need an expensive gym. If the weather’s bad, try one of the cable TV fitness shows or borrow workout videos for free from your local library.
12. Avoid secondhand smoke – Avoid smoky bars and restaurants. Encourage your family and friends to stop smoking; it’ll be healthier for both them and you.
13. An apple a day… We all know the old saying that "an apple a day keeps the doctor away." There’s some truth to it: eating lots of fruits and vegetables boosts your immune system.&n bsp; Plus, apples are cheap and a great source of fiber.
14. Wear sunscreen – Decrease your risk of skin cancer by taking an extra minute to use sunscreen on all areas of exposed skin.
15. Wear comfortable shoes – Bad shoes can lead to chronic back and foot pain. If you’re fashion conscious, then at least don’t wear heels all day and night; wear comfy shoes for walking and change into your heels at work or for going out.
16. Stretch – Proper stretching reduces stress, improves posture and balance, and can lessen the risk of injuries. Just make sure you’re warmed up before you do it.
17. Floss – Flossing is a whole lot easier and cheaper than getting gum disease and cavities.
18. Stress control – Find healthy ways to relieve stress, such as exercising or dancing.
19. Adjust your posture – Avoid possible back pain and heed your mom’s advice to sit up straight. If you work at a desk all day, get up and stretch your back, neck, and shoulders occasionally.
20. Get some (healthy) sun – A little sunshine gives you vitamin D. Just make sure to wear sunscreen.
21. Meditate – No mantras needed – just close your eyes and breathe deeply in and out for a few minutes to relieve stress and help clear your mind.
22. Eat slower – Help avoid tummy troubles by taking your time at meals. Chew slowly and savor every bite; this will also help you avoid overeating.
23. Take a break – Get up and stretch your legs or take a walk to the lobby to get away from your computer, relax your eyes and muscles and get some perspective.
24. Wash your hands – Such an easy way to rid yourself of germs, especially during cold and flu season. When you’re not near water, carry a portable size of anti-bacterial gel to rub on your hands.
25. Get more fiber – Fiber’s benefits include lowering your cholesterol and helping your colon function properly. Plus, you’ll feel fuller and will be less likely to overeat.
26. Unworthy sponges – Sponges can harbor germs and bacteria if you don’t replace them.
27. Get tested – Make sure you get a yearly checkup including cancer screenings; get STD tests if you’re sexually active. Women, don’t forget mammograms.
28. Visit the dentist – Regular teeth cleanings and periodic X-rays are much cheaper and less painful than neglecting your mouth and having to get root canal or dentures.
29. Replace your cosmetics and skin creams – Sure, you don’t want use them up, but outdated products can cause acne or skin irritations. Also avoid eye irritations by replacing your mascara.
30. Buy generic – Unless your doctor says otherwise, avoid brand names and save money with generic medications.
31. Get a flu shot – If you work in a crowded environment, are a senior citizen, or have certain health conditions, it’s important to protect yourself. Check with your doctor, employer, or county health department to see if you’re eligible for a free shot.
32. Never share toothbrushes, razors or other personal items – Don’t risk infections; keep your personal care items to yourself.
33. Save for health care – Even saving just $25 per month will be enough to cover some co-pays and deductibles for your health coverage.
34. Know your health history – Tell doctors and other health professionals about your health conditions, health history and genetic factors so they can treat you effectively and avoid unnecessary treatments.
35. Learn to cook – Restaurant food is expensive, and usually not as healthy. You don’t need to make anything fancy; salads and sandwiches are quick and easy choices.
36. Get a partner – Find a friend to share your healthy eating or exercise goals; you’ll motivate each other to be more successful.
Two Dozen Easy Ways To Save Money On Gas
1. The obvious one: drive less by walking, carpooling, bicycling or taking public transit. Google Maps has an excellent map that makes using mass transit simple and easy.
2. If you have to drive, see if you can combine trips, e.g. run your errands on the way home from work. You can also time your trips during off-peak times to avoid traffic to help you save time and money.
3. Get the junk from the trunk – your vehicle uses more gas with the extra weight. Clean out the car and take out all the stuff you don’t need.
4. Check and maintain proper tire inflation according to manufacturer specifications. A tire pressure gauge only costs a few bucks but will save you a lot of money if you maintain the right tire pressure.
5. Plan your trip for best combination of: shortest distance and minimum traffic congestion. It could be worth a slightly longer route, though, if the shortest route is heavily jammed. Go to Google Maps, input your location and click the box for "Traffic" to see current traffic conditions.
6. Go with the flow – although you want to avoid traffic jams, a freely moving flow of traffic on a highway is better for you gas-wise than an empty road. That’s because the traffic flow creates an aerodynamic wind current.
7. Choose the smoothest roads for the least rolling resistance and less gas usage.
8. Go with good weather, when you can. Driving in rain and snow increases your vehicle’s aerodynamic resistance and lowers your mileage.
9. Close your sunroof at higher speeds. Certain styles of sunroofs, when open, greatly increase drag.
10. Also, at higher speeds, keep your windows closed to reduce drag. Even running your air conditioner (windows closed) may be more fuel-efficient than open windows at 55 mph.
11. Know fuel efficient braking techniques – coast in neutral when you can, to slow down before you brake. But only do this when it’s safe, depending on traffic conditions.
12. When you can, avoid braking at all, by adjusting your speed to follow the traffic flow and take advantage of green lights. Again, you’ll have to adapt to traffic conditions and safety.
13. Barefootin’ – believe it or not, you can save gas by removing your shoes and driving in socks or bare feet. This increases your sensitivity to use the accelerator and brakes at maximum efficiency.
14. Avoid parallel parking in tight spots – all the back-and-forth and maneuvering will use up extra gas. Park a little farther away in an easier spot.
15. In a multi-vehicle household, choose the most fuel-efficient vehicle as often as you can.
16. With an automatic transmission, use "overdrive" or "economy" mode to save fuel; these settings shift the transmission into high gear sooner.
17. In winter, clean snow and ice off your car to reduce wind resistance (as well as improving safety and visibility).
18. In summer, keep air-conditioning use to a minimum. Parking in the shade will help reduce the need for a/c. It also helps to tint your windows to keep your car interior cooler.
19. Maintain appropriate following distance; if you follow too closely, you’ll have to hit the brakes hard to stop. That’s less fuel-efficient and potentially unsafe.
20. Don’t speed. Going fast uses more gas.
21. Avoid roof racks, since they increase drag. For bicycles, get a rear-mounted carrier.
22. Save gas by minimizing use of accessories such as dvd players, interior lights, etc.
23. If you use toll roads and bridge, get EZ Pass, so you won’t burn up gas sitting in tollbooth traffic.
24. Finally, if you own an old gas guzzler, see if you should trade it in for a more fuel efficient model. Check if you qualify for the government’s new "Cash for Clunkers" program. http://www.cars.gov/ This program has been extremely popular and may run out of funding, so act soon.
The amount of the credit is $3,500 or $4,500, and generally depends on the type of vehicle you purchase and the difference in fuel economy between the purchased vehicle and the trade-in vehicle.
Your trade-in vehicle must:
- have been manufactured less than 25 years before the date you trade it in
- have a "new" combined city/highway fuel economy of 18 miles per gallon or less
- be in drivable condition
- be continuously insured and registered to the same owner for the full year preceding the trade-in
Photo credit via Flickr
25 Healthy Living Tips You Can Use Today
Many people don’t realize the hidden costs of not being healthy. When you consider the long term costs being healthy can save you thousands of dollars. If being healthy doesn’t motivate you then maybe saving some money will. Here are 25 tips to help keep you living healthy while saving you time and money.
Eating Healthy At Home
1. Drink water instead of sugar-laden juice or soda. And you don’t need expensive bottled water. If your tap water isn’t tasty, get an inexpensive filtering pitcher. Better yet buy a reusable water bottle to take with you on the go.
2. Cut out the fast food. Even dollar menu items add up. And you can do without all that fat and salt.
3. Eliminate junk food snacks such as chips. They are empty calories and they empty your wallet. View our 10 top cheap and healthy foods.
4. Start a vegetable garden. Recently backyard gardens have been gaining in popularity because it provides healthy and fresh vegetables at great prices. Here is 10 tips on starting your own backyard garden. You can also use frozen vegetables. Fresh veggies can be pricey. Frozen ones are just as nutritious, require less prep time, and are cheaper.
5. Buy at wholesale prices and cut your grocery bills. How to do this? Join a food cooperative. Or order inexpensive, nutritious food from Angel Food Ministries.
6. Downsize your portions. Most people eat larger portions than they need to. Eat a little less, lose weight, and save money.
Eating Healthy Away From Home
7. When eating out at casual or fast food restaurants, try the kid’s meal. It’s cheaper and often provides enough for an adult’s appetite.
8. Skip the beer and cocktails, it adds calories and drains your bank account.
9. Share an entree with your dinner companion. Many restaurant’s portions are big enough for two people.
10. Avoid appetizers and desserts. You can have those at home.
11. Pack a lunch for work. You’ll save money and eat healthier compared to eating lunches out.
12. Don’t get coffee to go. The cost, and calories (if it’s sweetened) add up.
Your Health
13. Get enough sleep. You’ll have better resistance to illness. Create a sleep ritual. Example read a book and drink a glass of milk.
14. Check with your local health department and local pharmacies for free or low-cost health screenings and flu shots.
15. Go for a walk during your lunch hour; it’s a great way to squeeze in exercise and it’s free.
16. Can’t walk at lunch? At least use the stairs in your office building.
17. Take up dancing to have fun, meet new friends, and get exercise. Ballroom lessons can be expensive – so you might want to try soul or country line dancing, folk dancing or square dancing for beginner-friendly, low-cost events.
18. Use sunblock. Yes, this costs money, but it’s cheaper than needing treatment for skin cancer.
19. Don’t smoke. We all know this by now…smoking is dangerous as well as expensive. For more information, visit the American Cancer Society.
20. Cut your stress – it will improve your health and potentially save you medical bills. Figure out what you have control over in your life, and make some positive changes.
21. Watch less TV. Chances are you are watching way too much TV when you could doing so much other fun and rewarding things. Learn how to live without a TV and start living healthy.
Your Grooming
22. Drugstore skin creams are just as effective – and a lot cheaper – than the department store products. Check out our Drugstore.com coupons.
23. Can you get your hair cut less often? Space out your salon appointments to every eight weeks instead of every six.
24. Ladies, do your own nails and skip the expensive manicures. Learn more on how to look good on a budget.
25. Unless you have very oily hair, you may not need to wash it daily. Bathe the rest of yourself – but skip some shampoos to save money on hair care product consumption.
Photo credit via Flickr
Shopper Cards and Clubs: Are They Worth It?
If you’re like most people, your wallet is stuffed with shopper cards that you may or may not use. Also known as loyalty, club, membership and rewards cards, the free bar-coded cards are offered by retailers selling electronics, books, office supplies, sporting goods and pet-care products. American households on average belong to 14 loyalty programs, but they don’t use them regularly. On average, eight of those 14 hadn’t been used in the past year.
So, should you bother cluttering your wallet or keychain with these cards? Here are some tips to maximize your savings with shopper cards:
1. Obviously, you can score some good savings and rewards with shopper cards, that’s the main point. But you really have to work it to get the maximum benefit. For example: your supermarket might offer excellent prices on their "club card" items. But they’re hoping you buy more quantities than you need, or, once you’re in the store, you could be tempted to buy other items at higher prices. So, before you leave home, carefully peruse the store’s flyer, and make up a shopping list consisting only of the bargain items.
2. Do some comparisons: those special shopper card prices might actually be higher than the everyday low prices offer ed by discounters such as Target or Wal-Mart or various online merchants. Discount club memberships such as Costco or Sam’s Club can offer great savings, too, but often you have to buy in quantity, not always a money-saving choice for a smaller household.
3. If it’s a rewards program, such as cash back or gifts after a certain amount of purchases, think twice. If you are absolutely sure you would normally spend the rewards-qualifying amounts, fine. But don’t start inflating your buying just to get rewards; you won’t save money that way.
4. Think about your privacy. Shopper card programs collect your personal information, and when they are scanned each time you shop, the retailer is collecting information about your buying habits. That’s not necessarily a bad thing. It can allow the merchant to figure out what products people want the most, so they can carry those products in their inventory. Also, the information allows them to tailor special coupons or sales that you might find especially useful. Still, some consumers are uncomfortable with the idea, and choose to provide fake information to obtain a shopper card and preserve their privacy.
5. Declutter your wallet. Consolidate up to 6 shopper club bar codes/store names onto one little wallet card, a t www.keyringthing.com. Print a paper version of the consolidated wallet card for free, or pay $3.97and they’ll ship yiou a plastic version. Your local retailer’s card not listed? The website provides instructions on how to create a bar code to add to your card.
21 Ways To Stop Wasting Money
1. TAKEOUT COFFEE
No knock on Starbucks or Dunkin, but for a quick cup of coffee in the car or at work, it’s a lot cheaper to brew your own. Get a coffee maker and buy some high-quality ground coffee, plus a couple of travel mugs from the dollar store. After a few months, the setup will pay for itself and you’ll reap savings after that. Learn more about the Latte Factor.
2. ATM FEES
With a little advance planning, you can completely avoid these. You can go to a bank-owned ATM and also, you can check your bank’s website to find out which other ATM’s won’t charge you fees. Also investigate whether certain convenience stores or other retail outlets have fee-free ATM’s. Also, you can use your check card for almost anything now, even dollar menu items at fast-food restaurants, so you probably don’t need to carry much cash anyway.
3. BOTTLED WATER
Come on…do you really need this? Much bottled water is only purified tap water to begin with. And you’re already paying taxes for your own local water. If you don’t like the taste of your tap water, buy a filter to attach to your kitchen and/or bathroom faucets – or get a water-filtering pitcher. Get refillable plastic bottles and watch your savings pour in. Learn more on why Aquafina is a rip off.
4. CONVENIENCE FOODS
Yes, we know – you’re busy, oh so busy. It’s tempting to grab already-assembled sandwiches and prepackaged cheese and crackers. But those daily convenience store runs are costing you time and money. Hit up your local supermarket once a week for quick, easy food items such as bread, cold cuts, cheese slices, apples, etc. and throw some plastic storage bags into your basket as well. Packing your own lunches will be a snap.
5. CAR MAINTENANCE
No, you don’t need to go to your dealer for most types of maintenance and repairs. The exception would be covered warranty work and recalls – but for everything else, shop around. Usually a reputable, independently owned garage will fix your car for less.
6. BOOKS
Go to the library; it’s an amazing treasure trove not only for books, but also music and movies. You can find your nearest branch at PublicLibraries.com or by Googling the word "library" and your zip code to display the results on a map. If you want to be nice and support your locally owned, independent bookstore, go there and buy the things you can’t find at the library, such as gift items or very specialized books and magazines.
7. MUSIC
Are you still buying CD’s? There’s not much reason to do that anymore, unless you really love cover art and lyric sheets (and yes, some folks do.) Buy songs individually at 99 cents or so, from iTunes or Amazon. For the iTunes store, you’ll need to download free software at Apple.com. Amazon’s Music Store
8. HOME PHONE
Even if you normally use your cell, a land line is a useful backup and also is a better choice for making 911 calls because emergency centers will get your location more easily. Just don’t overpay for the land line. Shop around, and ask your phone company for a package deal; you could pay as little as $10-15 per month for a land line with unlimited calling if you also get high-speed internet and/or cable TV with the same company.
9. GAMBLING
The seductive clang-clang of the casinos draws you in, and you walk out poorer. Remember, the house always wins in the end. If you really enjoy gambling as entertainment, fine, but decide on your budget before you walk in – $25, $50, or whatever you really can afford to part with. Las Vegas Entertainment book can also help you save money when going to Vegas.
10. CLOTHING
It sure feels good to own the same brand of designer jeans Jennifer Aniston wears – but are you a multi-millionaire like she is? If not, skip the celebrity wear and go for some sharp designer knockoffs. Try Target at www.target.com or H&M at www.hm.com. Both stores carry lines from famous designers. Look for a special line of Jimmy Choo shoes at H&M later this year.
11. NEW GADGETS
It’s fun to be the first person on your block with the latest, coolest cell phone or some other gadget. But you pay dearly for the privilege. Wait at least six months and you’ll likely see lower prices for the same products.
12. NEW CARS
Do you absolutely, positively need a brand new car? Consider the fact that new cars instantly lose a lot of value the moment you drive them off the dealer’s lot. Nobody says you have to buy a junker – just consider opting for a slightly used set of wheels and you’ll save a lot.
13. EXTENDED WARRANTIES
Service warranties are big profit items for retailers but do little for consumers. Most electronic items can be replaced for not much more than the cost of repairs and warranties, and most likely you’ll be able to upgrade the technology too.
14. TRAFFIC TICKETS AND PARKING TICKETS
We all make the occasional mistakes. But repeat violations add up to big bucks – and traffic violations could cost you more on your car insurance as well. When you park, set a timer on your cell phone. And don’t speed or drive recklessly.
15. UNUSED GYM EQUIPMENT AND MEMBERSHIPS
So many people invest money to join a gym they never visit or workout equipment that gathers dust. Don’t waste money on good intentions. And if you really do decide to get fit, you can always start with something free, like walking or running. Learn how to get a cheap P90x DVDs.
16. FANCY HEALTH FOOD
Free-range chicken is nice, but not a necessity. Ditto for a lot of food that is only sold in health food stores or labeled "all-natural". Read labels and shop carefully; there are some plain old store brands that are just as healthy. And buy produce in season at local farmer’s markets; you’ll find good prices.
17. GREETING CARDS
No need to pay $3-5 for a typical gift shop greeting card – design and print your own with your computer. Or shop the dollar store.
18. CREDIT CARD FEES
Consumers are getting some new protection from sneaky rate hikes and hidden fees, thanks to a bill signed into law by President Obama; details at WhiteHouse.gov
Still, you need to be responsible for your own finances. Pay your bills on time.
19. IMPULSE BUYING
We all fall victim to the desire for immediate gratification. A carefully planned budget helps a lot. Find out how to create a budget the painless way. Allow yourself a set amount each week for minor impulse buys such as magazines or gum.
20. FLORISTS
No knock on florists here, but for everyday flower purchases, try your local supermarket. A dozen roses costs only $9.99 at my local supermarket (not on Valentine’s Day, of course.) Also check out Proflowers.com coupons and promo codes.
21. SOFTWARE
Some of the free software out there is as good as any you would buy. Check out Lifehacker’s top free downloads for some great picks of free Windows and Mac software.
Photo Credit via Flickr
Government Freebies: Where To Get Them
Why spend money when Uncle Sam has a vast array of free goodies for you, the taxpayer? Here are our top ten government freebies. If you want more, start with the U.S. government official web portal, www.usa.gov.
1. Recipes and Tips for Healthy, Thrifty Meals
This is an amazing freebie for anyone who wants to save money on the weekly food budget. It’s so tempting to spend money to eat out when you’re busy and don’t have time to cook. And a lot of budget and/or healthy recipes tend to require a long list of ingredients and complicated cooking. Not these. Each recipe is incredibly simple, usually just a few ingredients and easy directions all on one page for each dish – and it’s healthy but it’s not exotic ‘diet’ food, just normal American comfort food, so the whole family will enjoy it.
For example, there’s Beef Pot Roast, 220 calories per 3 oz. serving; and Oven Crispy Chicken, 350 calories per 4 oz. serving.
Free Food Plan Recipe Book – PDF File
2. Free Consumer Advice from the Federal Trade Commission
Planning to buy a car or a computer? Are you applying for a loan? Wondering how to choose a career? Or are you planning to spend money on home improvements? These and many other questions can be answered with free, down loadable and printable publications from the Federal Trade Commission. Read them before you shop!
FTC Consumer Advice Website
3. Check Your Credit With The Government’s Official Free Credit Reports
Be smart and don’t get ripped off with the websites that claim to offer free reports. There is only one official government site where you can obtain your free reports – it’s www.annualcreditreport.com. You’re entitled to one free report per year from each of the three major credit reporting agencies – TransUnion, Experian and Equifax, so that’s a total of three per year.
AnnualCreditReport.com
4. What Can Your Congressmember Do For You?
Check this link to find your local member of Congress and visit their office or website. You’ll find they may offer a variety of free brochures and maps, plus they may arrange free tours of national buildings and monuments if you ask them.
Ask and you shall receive.
Congress Contact Information
5. Greetings from the White House
The White House sends out cards celebrating new births and weddings. Simply send the full name of the honoree (including prefixes such as Mr., Mrs., etc…), address, date of event and the requester’s name and phone number to: The White0AHouse, Attn: Greetings Office, Washington, DC 20502-0039.
White House Greetings
6. Stop Telemarketing Calls
The National Do Not Call Registry gives you a choice about whether to receive telemarketing calls at home. Most telemarketers should not call your number once it has been on the registry for 31 days. If they do, you can file a complaint at this website. You can register your home or mobile phone for free.
DoNotCall.gov
7. Free Kids’ Fitness DVD
Get the kids away from the video games and have them do something more active in front of the TV screen with a free fitness DVD. Max’s Magical Delivery: Fit for Kids is a fun, interactive DVD targeted to children ages 5-9 and their families. Use the electronic order form to request your free copy of the DVD for children and their families. Call 1-800-358-9295 to order the DVD by phone. Ask for Max’s Magical Delivery: Fit for Kids (Product No. 04-0088-DVD).
8. See America’s Scenic Byways
Get a free map of America’s Scenic byways and start planning your vacation. Scenic byways include: the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina, the Santa Fe Trail in Colorado, Historic Route 66, and many more. You also can get more information online.
www.byways.org – Request a Map
9. Free Business Help from the Small Business Administration
The Small Business Administration offers much more than just loans to start a business. Did you know that they also offer software, detailed market analysis, help in writing your business plan, a huge on-line business library, a business card listing service, and more?
10. Search It Yourself
Check out the mother of all government money directories – the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance. This is the U.S. Government’s official site that lists more than 1,800 programs administered by various agencies. You can search by keyword, view by category, or print out the whole monstrous 2,205 page publication if you’re so inclined. The site even offers a guide on how to write grant proposals.
Photo credit via Flickr
How To Create A Budget The Painless Way
If you’re like me, when you hear the word "budget" you want to plug your ears and go "lalalalala" because the thought is just so dull, or possibly intimidating. So I learned the hard way what happens when you don’t bother to budget. I always thought of myself as frugal. I love bargain hunting and cheap deals that you can find on sites like this one. I know how to pay the lowest price. But until I sat down and put a spending plan on paper, I didn’t fully know where every penny of my money was being spent, and my wallet felt squeezed. So I knew it was time to buckle down.
I tried some popular software like Quicken and Microsoft Money. They’re fine products, but just too darn complicated if all you want to do is create a simple budget. Fancy financial software is fine for those who want spend the time to download every banking transaction, monitor investment portfolios, and create pretty charts and bar graphs. But it’s like buying a racing bike for a kid who’s still using training wheels. There also are sites such as Quicken online, or Mint.com, which pull in your bank account data, but I’m not comfortable with the security issue and anyway, it still won’t track the cash you spend out of pocket.
So after scouring the web, reading books, and playing with MS Office, I figured out a more painless approach to share with you. Here it is, step by step:
1. TRACK CASH SPENDING
Okay, this part will be a little tedious – but it’s not difficult, you only have to do it once (unless your circumstances change) and it’s absolutely necessary. You’ll be amazed to find out how much cash you spend every week, even if you think you’re being thrifty.
Get a small, pocket-sized, lined notebook, or you can buy pre-printed expense notebooks or forms from your local office supply store. Just make sure it’s something you can fit in your pocket or purse at all times, and attach a pen to it. If it’s not a pre-printed form, then write down headings for "date", "description", and "amount". Then, write down everything you spend for a month, yes even a pack of gum. If you’re not patient enough to do a month, then do this for one week, as long as it’s a fairly typical week for you.
2. PICK YOUR BUDGET FORM
If you have Microsoft Excel, then I highly recommend doing your budget that way. Just open Excel, click "new", and look through the list of template styles. You’ll see a heading for "budget". Click that, and you’ll see a choice of pre-programmed and designed budget forms. Just use the one that you find easiest to look at and understand. All you need to do is enter data and it will do the calculations for you. Or, you can find downloadable Excel budget forms online. You’ll find Mac versions at: http://www.microsoft.com/mac/templates.mspx?ttid=3 and Windows versions at: http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/templates/CT101172321033.aspx
If you prefer the pencil and paper method with a simple, printable form, try one of these:
http://www.betterbudgeting.com/budgetformsfree-basicbudgeting.htm or http://www.foxway.com/worksheet.html.
3. FILL OUR YOUR BUDGET
Assemble the following: your cash spending records from step 1, your checkbook register or a recent bank statement, a current pay statement or other income records, and your current bill statements. You’ll also need a pen or pencil, and a calculator.
Now, start entering figures in the appropriate boxes. Some boxes will need to be subtotaled, i.e. if there’s an "entertainment" category, you’ll add up what you spent on movies, concerts, shows, etc. If you only kept a week’s worth of cash expense records, you’ll need to multiply your numbers by 4.3 (number of weeks in a month), to obtain monthly figures. And if any other income or expenses are not monthly, again, you’ll need to calculate a monthly figure.
One little trick: if you get paid every other week, then calculate your income as being two paychecks per month. There are two months of the year when you will receive three paychecks – but those extra two pays will become an painless automatic savings and financial cushion for you. Nice, huh?
4. REVIEW YOUR BUDGET
Add up all expenses and subtract from your income, or if you’re using Excel, the program should do this automatically for you. Now, what did you find? Are your expenses exceeding your income? Or are you cutting it too close for comfort? If so, it’s time to make some changes. Shop around for cheaper phone plans and car insurance. Refinance your home loan if necessary. Cut out the premium cable channels. Eat out less. Get a second job. Get a roommate. There are many, many ways to save money; check out the other useful articles on this site.
5. CRACK DOWN ON CASH SPENDING
Once you’ve tweaked your budget and cut down your spending, figure out how much cash you need to carry around. I’ve found the envelope system to be a foolproof easy method to keep cash spending in line. Do this by reviewing your budget categories and seeing which categories are usually paid for in cash out of pocket. Add up those numbers and determine a monthly cash amount, then divide by 4.3 for a weekly amount. This is the amount you withdraw in cash each week. Get a bunch of little envelopes and mark each envelope with the category and budgeted amount. Apportion your weekly cash among those envelopes. When you’ve spent all the money in the envelopes, that’s it, no more spending for the week. If you carry a wallet and don’t have room for envelopes, you can use pieces of scrap paper as dividers; mark them with the categories and amounts, and put the paper dividers in your billfold.
Good luck – and remember to review and update your budget if you have changes to your expenses or income.
Photo Credit via Flickr
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