Money 911: Tested Strategies To Survive Your Financial Emergency 423pc

money

By Reed and Lorena Markham

iUniverse, Inc. New York Bloomington

Money 911 Tested Strategies to Survive Your Financial Emergency

Copyright © 2008 by Reed and Lorena Markham

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced by any means, graphic, electronic, or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, taping or by any information storage retrieval system without the written permission of the publisher except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews.

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Because of the dynamic nature of the Internet, any Web addresses or links contained in this book may have changed since publication and may no longer be valid. The views expressed in this work are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, and the publisher hereby disclaims any responsibility for them.

ISBN: 978-0-595-53124-0 (pbk) ISBN: 978-0-595-63185-8 (ebk)

Printed in the United States of America

iUniverse rev. date: 11/05/08

Contents

INTRODUCTION CREDIT CARDS/DEBIT CARDS CREDIT SCORE HOME OWNERSHIP UTILITIES CAR/GASOLINE GROCERIES PURCHASES HIDDEN FEES PROBLEMS WITH A PRODUCT OR SERVICE BUDGET INSURANCE GIFTS HOLIDAYS TRAVELING & VACATIONS ENTERTAINMENT LOANS SAVING & INVESTING

RAISING FUNDS ATTITUDE

INTRODUCTION

The idea for this book came while in our search to find ways to save money. We reviewed worn out tattered copies of lengthy financial books. In those, you have to dig through mountains to find a few nuggets of gold. We could see why they were worn out, we had to go through several pages just to find a couple of useful sentences. We decided to put only nuggets of gold in this book. This is not a detailed guide with in-depth analysis, there are plenty of those. This is simply the financial book, we would have liked to find- simple, straight-forward, tested advice.

This life is not a test run, we are living the real thing now. This is a book consumers can use now even if they only have precious little time to read. Take control of your finances and your future now. Financial problems only get bigger if you do nothing. Time will continue to whether you do something to change the outcome or not. It is our hope that you will choose a better financial future.

One of the great economic problems today is consumer debt. J. Reuben Clark observed: “It is a rule of our financial and economic life in all the world that interest is to be paid on borrowed money. Interest never sleeps nor sickens nor dies; it never goes to the hospital; it works on Sundays and holidays; it never takes a vacation; it never visits nor travels; it takes no pleasure; it is never laid off work nor discharged from employment; it never works on reduced hours. Once in debt, interest is your companion every minute of the day and night; you cannot shun it or slip away from it; you cannot dismiss it; it yields neither to entreaties, demands, or orders; and whenever you get in its way or cross its course or fail to meet its demands, it crushes you.”

CREDIT CARDS/DEBIT CARDS

Earl Wilson, “There are three kinds of people in the world: the Haves, the HaveNots, and the Have-Not-Paid-For What-They-Haves.”

1 You can live without credit cards, before 1950 Americans survived without them.

2 Use rewards credit cards only if you pay the balance in full. Otherwise finance charges and any other fees such as late payments will quickly overshadow any gain. If you have one of this cards and are carrying a balance, transfer it to a lower rate instead.

3 Don’t choose a card with an annual fee, there are plenty out there without this fee.

4 Watch out for monthly maintenance fees on your credit card. More and more companies are charging these. There are plenty of cards without these.

5 Always use the preprinted envelope from the credit card company to send in your payment. Otherwise it may be delayed causing late fees.

6 Always send your payment ahead of time. If your payment arrives even one hour after the deadline, you will be charged an outrageous late fee. A late fee added to an can also bring on overlimit fees.

7 Watch out for promotional credit cards. One late payment or overlimit charge and you will be charged default rates -30 percent in most situations.

8 Keep track of your credit limit. Credit card companies will not stop you from making a purchase that puts you above your credit limit. Instead they will charge you overlimit fees, each and every month until the balance falls below the limit.

9 Credit cards affect your credit score for good or bad. If you carry too many, you are bound to make a mistake.

10 Keep only one credit card. The MasterCard or Visa you’ve kept the longest.

11 If you carry a balance on a credit card, stop using it and don’t carry it with you. You’ll never be able to pay off your debt if you are constantly adding to it.

12 50% of people who carry credit-card debt experience feelings of depression. Decide now to pay off your debt.

13 Use the fold down method. Pay one credit card first until the balance is paid in full. If you were paying $100 towards it, when it is done, you put the $100 towards a second one until all are paid.

14 Use cash instead of credit cards, you will automatically spend about 30% less. Something about seeing the money leave your hands.

15 Don’t use an ATM machine, get the cash you need from your bank.

16 Call your credit card companies. See if they will give you a better rate.

17 Credit cards should be used only to pay for durable items such as appliances. Not for food or clothing.

18 Wants should never be paid for with a credit card, buy these only when you have the required cash.

19 Throw away any new credit card offers when you are finally out of credit card debt, in the meantime look them over carefully they may provide a lower APR than that of your current balance holder.

20 If you do find a lower APR on balance transfers, make sure you take into balance transfer fees.

21

Never pay your mortgage with a credit card.

22 Don’t use credit cards again until you are able to pay balances in full.

23 Never use credit cards for cash advances. The fees are always excessive.

24 A college student should avoid all credit card offers on campus. The free t-shirt in the deal is just not worth it. One credit card with a low credit limit that can be paid off every month will more than suffice for establishing good credit history.

25 When you close a credit card , ask for a confirmation letter to be sent to you. Credit card companies have been known not to close s when asked to.

26 Some 401k plans will allow you to borrow against your . You can use this money to pay credit card debt. However, be sure to pay back the money otherwise you will lose not only the principal but all the interest you would have made not to mention you will owe taxes.

27 If you carry a balance, make your payment the first minute you receive the bill. This will cause that more of the payment will go towards principal. Every little bit helps.

28 Make more than the minimum payment.

29 Start off by paying double the minimum on your credit cards. Slowly increase the amount.

30 Review your monthly budget and see if any expenses can be done away with for next month and apply the money towards credit card debt.

31 Beware of introductory offers. Theses offers often expire in three to six months. After the introductory period the rates go up.

32

Beware of companies offering great rates to transfer existing balances. These rates are typically for a short time only, add balance transfer fees and the offer may not be acceptable.

33 Always examine your statements carefully - watch for mistakes and hidden fees. Call the credit card company immediately if you have any questions.

34 Cash advances on cards are charged from the day you borrowed the money.

35 Save on increasing postage- make your credit card payment online.

36 If you get behind in your payments, your recreational expenses can be done away with and used to catch up on the payments instead.

37 Credit card companies have a variety of repayment schedules- work with the company to find one that fits your needs.

38 If you can’t afford to buy it now, don’t buy it. It gets easier with practice.

39 Credit cards are great for goods and services where quality may be an issue.

40 When you make a purchase always keep the receipt to check against the statement.

41 Shred credit card documents before you throw them away.

42 Draw a line through any blank spaces above the total when you sign a receipt.

43 Notify credit cards companies immediately when you move.

44

Always read the small print in credit cards contracts. Read before g.

45 Credit card companies should disclose how long low interest offers last if you are unsure find out before you sign.

46 Don’t count on pre-approval if your credit status has changed recently.

47 If you are even one minute late you will be charged a late fee, most credit card companies have the payment due at a certain hour of the due date.

48 If you pay the balance off each month to avoid charges, your credit card company may exercise the option to cancel the card. Simply get one new card.

49 Document all communication with credit card companies including date, time, names, and decisions made on your .

50

Get to the point when you talk with a credit card representative to resolve an issue. The more time you spend talking the more likely you are to buy into their extra services.

51 Maintain or raise your good credit rating by paying bills promptly.

52 Your APR can go up with even one late payment with any credit card.

53 Keep track of your finances with software such as Quicken or Managing Your Money to avoid missing payment deadlines.

54 If you find you cannot make even the minimum payment write a letter explaining your situation and letting the creditor know when you can begin repayment.

55 One way to limit the use of credit cards is to leave them at home in an inaccessible place. Some have been known to freeze them. Use them only for travel and only for emergencies -until your emergency reserve is built.

56 Set up your cards for automatic minimum payments plus whatever else you can afford an extra $5, $10, $50.

57 Any extras you can do without for a while should go towards more than the minimum payment on your credit card.

58 If you need to make a large purchase, save the money before you use a credit card. You will be a more careful shopper when you see how hard it was to save all that money.

59 Don’t use your credit card if you have no plan on how to repay the debt.

60 Every time you use a credit card you spend your future income now.

61 If you call your credit card company it may reduce your monthly minimum

payment.

62 If you call your credit card company it may waive extra finance charges and late fees.

63 If you call your credit card company it may allow you to skip one or more monthly payments and extend the length of the loan.

64 If you call the credit card company it may allow you to close the and allow you to make affordable payments to slowly reduce the outstanding balance over time.

65 If you call the credit card company it may allow you to close the and accept a settlement for less than the amount you actually owe.

66 Avoid store cards such as for department stores and gasoline stations. They typically have some of the highest interest rates.

67 If you call the credit card company it may allow you to refinance the loan at a lower interest rate and/or for a longer term to reduce your monthly payments.

68 Never skip a payment unless you have worked out a plan with the credit card company or a late fee of at least $35 and a higher interest rate will result.

69 Most of the credit card consolidation loans are not worth the fees. In most cases you will save money by repaying them separately.

70 If you cannot make even the minimum payments after working out plans with your credit card companies, a non-profit credit counseling agency. Watch out for scams.

71 Don’t ignore court documents. Courts are sympathetic regarding personal debts if you are willing to work out a plan.

72

A home equity loan to consolidate credit card debt is an option but because it puts your home at risk. Consider this your second to last resort ahead only of bankruptcy. If you choose this route, that the interest can be tax deductible.

73 If you have a serious spending problem, seek out a local group such as shopaholics anonymous. Otherwise you might fall back to your old habits when you are finally out of your emergency.

74 If you are declaring bankruptcy, seek help from a non-profit organization first. It will be extremely hard to get a loan for a house or car but sometimes there is no other option. On rare occasions declaring bankruptcy can also prevent you from getting a new job.

Debit Cards

75 The difference between a credit card and a debit card is that with the credit card you “buy-now-pay later” and with a debit card you “buy now pay now”. A debit card uses your checking or savings .

76

If you are using a debit card pay careful attention to your bank balance to avoid excessive overdraft fees.

77 If you cannot get a credit card, getting and using a debit card may be a valid option.

78 If you are not comfortable carrying cash using a debit card is a good option.

79 If you have trouble ing to carry your checkbook a debit card is a good option.

80 If you make purchases on the internet a debit card is an option if you don’t have a credit card.

81 If you travel a debit card can be as good as a credit card.

82

Make sure you know which card you are using, it is easy to confuse with a credit card since they look so much alike. Use a debit card by mistake without having the money available at the time of sale and you will incur fees.

83 Shop around for the best debit card. Some have monthly or per transaction fees. Read your cardholder agreement carefully to see all the possible charges associated with use.

84 Be careful with your debit card because if you lost or stolen you may lose everything in your checking and savings .

85 If you lose your debit card the issuer immediately to reduce liability if losses occur.

CREDIT SCORE

Greg McBride: “Pay your bills on time, and pay your debt down over time. Together those factors for 65 percent of your credit score.”

86 Pay your bills on time. This has the most positive impact on your credit score.

87 Keep your credit card balances low. 35% or less of your available credit. Move the balance to several cards if you need to.

88 Don’t close long term credit card s. If you have more than five credit cards, keep the one you’ve had for the longest time.

89 Apply for new credit only when you need it. Opening a store card that you will only use once or twice is not a good option.

90

Your credit score can affect such things as auto insurance. If your rate is unreasonably high, talk with your insurance agent.

91 Your credit score will affect the interest rate on your mortgage.

92 If you are divorced, make sure all the s have been either paid off or the spouse removed from the . Also be sure to have your name removed from any t in which you are not the primary holder.

93 Correct any inaccuracies in your credit report and have the information removed.

94 Avoid excess inquiries on your credit report. Several in a short period of time, such as will be triggered by loans or credit card applications can drastically reduce your credit score.

95 Avoid consolidating your balances on one credit card because maxing out one card will detract from your credit score.

96 your creditors as soon as you run into financial difficulty. Missing payments will negatively affect your credit score. Instead see if you are able to work out a plan.

97 Your current credit balance should be no more than 30% of your available balance to have the most positive impact on your overall score.

98 Go to www.annualcreditreport.com or call 877-322-8228 for free annual reports from Equifax, Experian and Transunion.

99 Find out what your credit score is, you will probably have to pay for it but it’s worth it. A simple credit score will cost you about $15 at myfico.com

100 You do not need credit monitoring services. You can do this yourself for a fraction of the cost.

101

Avoid bankruptcy. This will trigger an immediate and drastic drop in your credit score and will continue to plague your report for ten years.

HOME OWNERSHIP

Rick Renzi: “Home ownership is the cornerstone of a strong community.”

102 When buying or selling a home all agreements must be in writing oral agreements are useless and cannot be enforced.

103 Make sure your mortgage does not have prepayment penalties.

104 Submit your mortgage application to only one or two lenders at once. Too many applications will negatively impact your credit score and make lenders suspicious of your motives.

105 Make a biweekly payment instead of monthly. It will save interest and repay the loan sooner. This can be done without any special program or added fees. Simply add 1/12 of your regular mortgage payment to your monthly payment. Write it on a second check and mark it “principal only.”

106 Never use a dual (one representing both buyer and seller) agent. The dual agent will negotiate in his best interest, not yours. Locate an agent that will look out for you.

107 Never buy a home without a home inspection. Home inspections will identify major and minor problems with the home.

108 If you can locate a lender who will offer you a lower interest rate than the one you are currently on; has low arrangement fees, and low or non-existent prepayment penalties and late fees it might be worth refinancing.

109 Make sure that all repairs have been made before closing.

110 Read your documents, make sure you understand them before you close.

111 Independent appraisals can give you the real value of your home.

112 Provide documents to the mortgage company in a timely manner.

113 Reserve funds for closing costs. Closing costs can be 2-5% of the mortgage amount.

114 Try to pay your home off earlier with a 15 or 20 year term. Payments will be higher but if you can do it, the savings on interest paid are incredible.

115 Make sure you get written Good-Faith estimates. Also, get a written Good-Faith estimate of your closing costs.

116 Don’t forget that origination fees should be about 1% of the loan amount.

117 Refuse to sign any blank documents.

118 Don’t buy property for someone else.

119 Don’t overstate your income.

120 Don’t overstate how long you have been employed.

121 Don’t understate your debt.

122 Don’t alter your income tax returns for any reason.

123 Don’t list co-borrowers on your loan application except for your current spouse.

124 Tell the truth about your credit problems, both past and present.

125 Tell the truth about your intention to occupy the house.

126 Don’t provide false ing documents.

127 Stipulate to your creditors that they are not to report you to credit referencing agencies as being ‘late’ with your payments, if you have re-negotiated lower payments. Your credit rating should not be negatively affected.

128 Keep written records of everything. that phone calls are not legally binding.

129 Make any other extra payments as they become available, but after you have paid off your credit card debt.

130 Choose to buy a home that is less than you qualify for but make the payments you do qualify for. You will own your home outright much sooner. You can then choose to buy a bigger home, if you need to.

131 Challenge your property tax assessment especially if prices of homes in your area have fallen.

132 Decide how much space you really need. Carefully evaluate your needs, if you don’t need the extra space, don’t pay for it.

133 If the home you own has more space than you need, consider downsizing.

134 Your mortgage payment should be no more than 28% of your gross income.

135 If you have chosen to build a home, ask about builder’s incentives to reduce the cost of your loan.

136 If you refinance to a lower fixed interest rate, continue to make the regular payment you are used to and put the difference toward paying down the principal.

137 If you have a subprime loan sell your home if at all possible.

138 If you are selling your home with a subprime loan you will probably have to pay a high prepayment penalty but is better than losing the home and any equity you might have.

139 Refinance your subprime loan. Find a loan with a fixed interest rate and no prepayment penalty.

140 If you have a subprime loan your lender. Due to the current mortgage crisis they might be willing to give you a better loan.

141 A voluntary foreclosure is better than a standard foreclosure.

142 If you are in danger of foreclosure pay only for essential items including food, shelter, utilities, childcare, and health insurance.

143 A foreclosure is not the end of the world. Take your time and review all the possibilities before making your final decision. Too many homeowners facing foreclosure are making bad decisions.

144 If you are facing a foreclosure, don’t pay for non-essential items such as credit card bills or medical bills. This will negatively affect your credit rating but you are now in survival mode.

145 Keep in mind that a foreclosure will be more expensive for your lender than a repayment plan.

146

Facing foreclosure- stop paying into your retirement or any other savings program until you can get back on your feet.

147 Also when facing foreclosure to cancel cable, wireless phone, gym hip, magazine subscriptions, newspapers and any other non essential you can think of.

148 If you usually get a tax refund change your withholdings so that you can put that money toward the mortgage payment.

149 Beware of scams. There is no easy way to avoid foreclosure.

150 If you can’t make your mortgage payment call the mortgage company. Ask if the interest rate can be reduced.

151 your elected representatives to seek what governmental assistance is available for homeowners facing foreclosure.

152 If you are having trouble paying the mortgage the mortgage company may be able to reduce your monthly payment temporarily.

153 If you call your mortgage company they may allow you to skip one or more payments -this will extend the length of the loan.

154 Renovating your house just before you put it on the market is not a good idea. You are likely to recoup only a portion of the money spent.

155 If you have been trying to sell your home without success. Try a home stager. They will stage your home, often bringing in their own furniture, to make it look its best.

UTILITIES

Ellen Goodman: “Normal is getting dressed in clothes that you buy for work and driving through traffic in a car that you are still paying for - in order to get to the job you need to pay for the clothes and the car, and the house you leave vacant all day so you can afford to live in it.”

Telephone:

156 Cut the contract cell phone. If you are not willing to do this, at least look around for the best deal possible.

157 If you are quoted a monthly payment plan for your cell phone, ask for the out the door cost with fees, taxes and other charges added.

158 You will be charged activation and cancellation fees with any contract phone so shop around.

159 One way to cancel your cell phone for free is to wait until there is a price change affecting your contract then simply call to cancel.

160 Telebright.com is a good place to shop for a cell phone plan, if you still insist on having a contract phone.

161 Use prepaid cell phones for emergencies and teenagers. They are available at just about any discount store.

162 Minutes with a cell phone are deducted whether you make or receive a phone call and that includes toll free numbers so use only when necessary.

163 If you use a cell phone for more than rare occasions, make sure you find a plan that suits your calling pattern.

164 If you have an anytime minutes allotment, plan on paying several times more for

any minute used above the allotment.

165 Find a cell phone plan that offers rollover minutes to avoid over the allotment fees.

166 Calling outside of your home calling area will cost you long distance charges and roaming fees.

167 Roaming fees will be assessed to calls you make or receive outside your calling area.

168 If your program has off-peak hours see if you can limit most of your calls to those times. It will either cost less or be free.

169 Don’t use any additional gadgets on your phone such as internet or digital photo capabilities. These will add additional service fees.

170 Don’t have a specialized ring tone or games. These two could cost you $60 or more per year.

171 If you choose to use your cell phone to call family or friends take advantage of in-network plans.

172 If you decide that everyone in the household is going to have a cell phone, be sure to use a family plan.

173 Don’t use your cell phone for texting, send e-mails instead.

174 Check your cell phone statement carefully, if any unauthorized uses occur, talk to your carrier immediately.

175 If your cell phone carrier refuses to refund unauthorized charges, tell them you will cancel your contract and go with their competitor.

176 The cell phone business is very competitive. Watch for new offers. If you come across a better offer switch, this is easier than you think.

177 If you sign up a friend to your cell phone carrier, you will usually receive a credit, your carrier to see it they have these or other loyalty incentives.

178 Pay your cell phone bill on time to avoid late fees and other related charges.

179 Call numbers directly. If you use an operator, it may cost you up to $10 more per call.

180 Use a phonebook or the internet to look up phone numbers, don’t pay for directory assistance.

181 Phone internet companies offer free unlimited local and long distance calling,

this may be a better fit for you than a traditional landline.

182 Cut out all the extras on your land line. Call waiting, three way calling, etc.

183 Cut the long distance part of your landline. Use a calling card for long distance phone calls. The most basic of services is offered in most places for about $20 a month.

184 If you spend more than $100 on cable, phone and internet, ask for a combined services offer.

Electricity:

185 Paint the rooms with special paint. By adding a nontoxic ceramic powder to your paint, you will reduce the amount of heat ing through the walls to the outside. It will also create a barrier that reflects the heat back into the room.

186

Use a clothesline instead of a dryer.

187 Install a blanket for your hot water heater and reduce the temperature.

188 Clean the coils on the back of your refrigerator.

189 Make sure the freezer is full- empty freezers require more energy.

190 Wear weather appropriate clothes so you don’t overheat or cool your home down unnecessarily.

191 Insulate your pipes. It will keep them from freezing and the hot water pipes will retain heat longer.

192 Have regular electricity audits performed by professionals.

193 Switch to energy-efficient lighting. Compact fluorescent bulbs are comparable to incandescent and will cost you about one third the cost to run.

194 Watch out for standby power. Any device that shows a light or clock after it has been turned off uses standby power. These may include your computer, vcr, cd and dvd players. Turn them off by unplugging them.

195 Turn the lights off when you leave a room.

196 If your refrigerator is 10 yrs. or older, replace it with an energy efficient model.

197 Front loading washers use up to 50% less energy.

198 Front loading washers leave less water in the clothes to save on dryer time.

199 Select the smallest appliance that can do the job. For example, your slow cooker over the stove.

200 Use lower watt bulbs.

201 Dimmer switches reduce electricity use.

202 Turn lights and your television set off when you are not in the room.

203 Check your utility provider, most have budget plans available.

204 Use white light shades they provide more light.

205 Turn off outdoor lights except those necessary for safety and security.

206 Do an air-conditioner tune up that includes coils cleaning, replacing filters and repairing of ductwork.

207 The recommended air-conditioner thermostat temperature is 78 degrees or above during warmer months.

208 Open your windows on nice days and you won’t need to run your air conditioner.

209 Use a ceiling or floor fan, both will make your home feel cooler allowing you to set your air conditioner higher.

210 Wear lighter clothing to feel cooler.

211 Make sure all the vents are open and clear of any items such as furniture.

212 Plant deciduous trees around house to cool in summer.

213 Let the sun come in through the windows during the winter.

214 During warmer days close drapes and blinds during the day. Make sure they are drawn early in the morning for maximum savings.

215 Open the drapes and windows at night to cool the house.

216 In the winter leave the thermostat set on 65 degrees or below.

217

During winter nights turn the heating off or down to 55 degrees.

218 Close your drapes at night to keep out the cold in the winter.

219 Install automatic setback thermostats, to control heating and air conditioning more efficiently. These can be set to adjust automatically.

220 Have your furnace checked once a year to ensure proper functioning and make sure filters are clean.

221 If you buy fuel for heating your home, purchase it in the summer when rates are lower.

222 If changes are suggested during an energy audit, apply them. These changes will pay for themselves in the long run.

223

Check your utility company for rebates when installing a new energy saving appliance.

224 Lower your hot water thermostat to 120 degrees.

225 your power company’s special energy saving program. During peak hours electricity is cut to appliances for short amounts of time. You will probably not notice the difference.

226 Use only full loads in the dryer.

227 To retain the most heat, use consecutive loads with your dryer. If your dryer has an automatic setting for drying clothes, use it.

228 Don’t use your dryer at all, line dry your clothes.

229

Make sure your house is well insulated. Go around the outside of your house and caulk all cracks, ts, corners and holes.

230 The next time you replace a roof, choose an energy efficient one.

231 Install a whole house fan. Whenever the outside air is cooler you can turn off the air conditioner.

Water:

232 Turn off the water while you brush your teeth.

233 Turn off the water while you shave.

234 Turn off the water while soaping up in the shower.

235 Use only full loads in the washer.

236 Water the lawn and plants in the early morning to avoid needless evaporation.

237 Use a water bucket to wash the car. Use the hose only for a quick rinse.

238 Fix all drippy faucets - check both the inside and outside of your home.

239 Take showers that use less water than baths.

240 Use only cold water for your garbage disposal.

241 Change your shower head for a water efficient one, this will reduce your shower water cost.

CAR/GASOLINE

Will Rogers: “One way to stop all those traffic jams is to allow on the streets only those automobiles that are paid for.”

242 If you find yourself with upside down equity (that is owing more on your car than what you could sell it for) you have two unpleasant options to get out of it. Option one- continue to make payments until the loan is paid off. Option twotake out a personal loan for the difference between what you owe on it and what you could sell it for. Sell the car, then you will still have to pay the loan but your monthly payments will be lower.

243 Consider a hybrid car for your next auto purchase.

244 Make a car budget for repairs.

245 Go to work early to avoid wasting gasoline during heavy traffic hours. Your boss will also appreciate your new found dedication to your job.

246 Keep windows up over 45 mph.

247 Purchase tires from Costco or another wholesale club.

248 If you live in a big city, locate programs that give you access to a car without ownership.

249 Avoid driving to places close by- get some exercise by walking over to a park, store or other location.

250 Carpool to work and other activities.

251 Wash and vacuum your car at home.

252 Rotate your car tires regularly.

253 Wash your car on a regular basis.

254 Avoid heavy traffic.

255 Turn on the cruise control whenever possible on the highway.

256 Change your own motor oil.

257 Pay auto insurance s annually

258

Make sure you take advantage of the good driver, good student, multiple car discounts.

259 Group your errands to save on driving time.

260 Use a guide such as Edmunds.com to learn what the dealer pays for the car (invoice pricing), you’ll be in a better bargaining position.

261 Research for the best rate on your loan and get pre-approved before you go to the dealership.

262 several dealerships in your area and get the best price in writing, use it to see who will give you the best deal.

263 What is the value of your car? One racket perpetrated by insurance companies is to increase s annually, when they should be decreased to take of the declining value of your car.

264 If you are having a difficult time paying for your car, the lender to see if you can get summer deferral.

265 Don’t pay cash on tolls. Electronic toll devices save you money.

266 Maintain expensive items such as cars to prolong the life of the item.

267 Selling your car through newspaper ads will generate more money than trading your car in.

268 Purchase a pre-owned car with low miles rather than a brand new car. Depreciation on new cars is significant during the first year.

269 If you have two cars, use the car the gets the best mileage.

270 Use mass transit instead of your cars.

271 Consider moving closer to your workplace if your commute is long.

272 Consider car pooling.

273 Check your tires on a regular basis to make sure they are properly inflated. Under-inflated tires can shorten the life of your tires as well as reduce your mileage. Over inflated tires will have to be replaced much sooner.

274 Obey the speed limit. You will save gas and avoid possible speeding tickets.

275 Obey all traffic regulations. This can help you avoid expensive traffic tickets.

276 Put together a proposal for telecommuting.

277 Look into discounts mass transit es.

278 Check your workplace for transportation assistance.

Gasoline:

Jay Leno: “At the gas station near my house they have a slot on the pump for your credit card, and one right next to it for your 401-K.”

279 Buy a car that is fuel-efficient, factor in all long term costs first.

280 Watch your speed. Traveling at 65 mph instead of 55 mph uses up to 17% more fuel.

281 Monitor the day of the week that has the lowest gas prices.

282 Look for frequent shopper deals on gas.

283 Anticipate stops. Take your foot off the gas as soon as you are able to.

284 Resting your foot on the brake can cause a drag that will use more gas, avoid it.

285 Make sure your gas cap fits tightly, buy a new one if your need to because a loose cap causes gas to escape through evaporation.

286 Accelerate at a slow rate. Fast accelerating burns more gas.

287

Buy the lowest price gas. Skip out on the higher grades.

288 Use cruise control whenever you can, especially on highways. A steady speed will improve your gas mileage.

289 If you use snow tires in the winter, make sure they are removed when the weather is good. These use more gas.

290 Clean out your vehicle and trunk. All unnecessary extra weight will reduce your mileage.

291 Do not let your car idle for more than 60 seconds. It takes more fuel to idle longer than a minute than for you to start your car.

292 Consider radial tires. You will save 2-3% off your fuel bill.

293

Use your air conditioner sparingly. It takes 10-15% more fuel to run it.

294 Use your air vents to provide fresh air inside the car on highways because the aerodynamic drag will use additional fuel.

295 Filters and catalytic converters should be kept clean. Dirty filters can add up 10% to your gas bill.

296 Use multi-grade oils and change your oil every 3,000 miles.

297 Some gasoline stations charge extra for using a credit card, pay cash instead.

298 Warming up your car is expensive avoid it or if you must lessen the time your car sits idle.

299

Buy the cheapest gas in your area. Only buy gas if your car requires it you might want to sell your car if you do have one that requires it.

300 Don’t top off the tank and don’t round up the dollar amount.

301 Don’t squeeze the handle all the way- set it at the halfway point. The faster your pump, the more air that gets into your tank which translates to less miles to the gallon.

302 Always fill your gas tank when it’s half empty, the more space in your tank the less miles to the gallon.

303 In the morning let your engine warm on its own. Don’t “cool down” or “warm up” your car first.

304 Roll down your windows first before turning on the air conditioner. It is harder on your engine to run the air conditioner and accelerate at the same time.

305 Avoid the lead foot. Have a light foot. Pressing down on the gas pedal means wasting more gas.

306 Speeding on the highway equals spending more on gas. Let NASCAR wannabes you by.

GROCERIES

Henry Youngman: “Americans are getting stronger. Twenty years ago it took two people to carry ten dollars’ worth of groceries. Today, a five-year-old can do it.”

307 The best way to pay for groceries is cash.

308 Shop at a couple of different stores to reduce your grocery bill. A fancy store like Publix and a store where food prices are generally lower such as Wal-Mart.

309 If your store offers a loyalty card, sign up for it. You will get discounted prices on a lot of items.

310 Reserve shop. Buy items that are on sale now that you don’t need but will use in the future and start a food storage at home.

311

Avoid recipes that require extensive or exotic ingredients.

312 Go through your refrigerator and cupboards daily to use items before they go bad.

313 Eat cereal instead of buying expensive fast food.

314 Dilute the fruit juice- add water.

315 Post the family menu so everyone knows what to expect.

316 If you buy soda, buy two liter bottles instead of cans- it’s much cheaper.

317 Collect vegetable leftovers in a bag in the freezer. Use the bag later to make soup.

318 Meet friends for breakfast or lunch instead of expensive dinners.

319 Try using less of your dishwashing soap and laundry detergent, the results are usually the same.

320 Create a price book. This is done by keeping track of the prices at the grocery stores you shop at. This will help you realize if the sale is truly a sale.

321 Don’t use a shopping cart if you are only planning on buying a few items. Invariably you will pick up a few more if you do.

322 Shop with a list.

323 Try to grocery shop once a week.

324 that grocery stores are designed for impulse shopping- stay focused on your list.

325 Some grocery stores have expanded the size of their grocery carts. Their studies show that shoppers feel the need to fill a cart regardless of size. Resist the temptation to fill the cart.

326 Stick to your shopping schedule. If you run out of something, see if there is something at home that will do until your next shopping trip.

327 Plan a weekly menu from store circulars- sale items.

328 Some grocery stores sell expired food. Make sure you check the expiration labels.

329

Cook from scratch. Use recipe books.

330 Don’t buy frozen food.

331 If you are short on time, prepare a large batch of food, divide it into individual containers and freeze it yourself.

332 If you used to buy frozen breakfast foods, make them and freeze them yourself. Pancakes and waffles are inexpensive homemade and freeze well.

333 Don’t buy prepackaged food.

334 Make sure you plan your menus around what your family will eat to avoid food waste.

335

Drink water for most meals. It is not only cheaper but better for your health.

336 Eggs are an inexpensive source of protein.

337 During the week have at least one day of meatless menus.

338 Buy fruits and vegetables in season these are cheaper more nutrient packed.

339 Have breakfast for lunch or dinner. Typically breakfast is cheaper than other meals.

340 Use items from your kitchen. Go to allrecipes.com for recipes by ingredients.

341 Buy milk at a gasoline station or drugstore.

342 Most name brand or generics have a guarantee. If you try one and are not satisfied, take it back.

343 Some discount stores have lower prices on certain items like cereal than your grocery store.

344 If you must buy prepared items at the deli, buy the whole roasted chicken for the best value.

345 Prepare meals ahead of time. Double recipes when cooking and save one in the freezer.

346 Farmer’s market produce is usually cheaper and fresher.

347 Look up or down in the grocery store aisles. The highest markup items are

mostly on shelves at chest level.

348 Whenever possible buy generics or store brands products. Many have the same product with different labels.

349 Stick to the outside aisles around the store when you shop. Middle aisles are the most expensive

350 Try to shop alone. Taking children along can quickly add to your bill.

351 Shop early in the day for best food selection especially at the Farmer’s market.

352 The longer you are in a store, the more you will spend.

353 Avoid shopping for food when you’re hungry; you will tend to buy more.

354 Avoid shopping for food when you’re tired, you’ll buy more sweets and highcarbohydrates.

355 Avoid shopping for food when you’re angry, you’ll buy more crunch food and junk food.

356 Buy items on sale and pair them with a coupon.

357 Use a coupon on a regular priced item only when you would have bought it without one anyways. You will find most coupons in your Sunday Paper. There are Sunday only subscriptions.

358 Take advantage of in-store coupon displays and coupon machines.

359 Log on to your supermarket’s online home page sometimes they offer coupons.

360 Call the toll-free numbers on your favorite products’ labels and tell the customerservice and tell them how pleased you are with their product. Most will offer coupons, if not ask.

361 Online coupon sites are good sources for coupons. Type the words “coupon sites” on Google.

362 Some supermarkets will double or triple the face value of manufacturers’ coupons.

363 You can use a manufacturer’s coupon and a store’s own coupon.

364 If your item does not ring up correctly, some stores have policies that your product will be free or at a discount.

365

Listen closely to how many beeps per item you hear at the checkout stand, two beeps and chances are you were just charged double for one item

366 Avoid purchasing nongrocery items such as diapers or medicines at the grocery store, they typically cost more there than at a drugstore or big discount store.

367 If sale items are out, get a rain check.

368 If your store marks down goods that expire like meat and bakery items, buy them but if you do not use them that same night freeze them.

369 Look for a section of clearance items, these are usually products that did not sell as expected at a bargain price.

370 Carry a calculator. You will be able to figure out if the bigger package is really a better deal when you compute per unit cost.

371 Request price matching, some stores such as Wal-Mart offer it -make sure you take the other store’s ad.

372 Some stores honor all competitors coupons use the policy.

373 Make sure you really do get the best price, at big discount stores most items are lower price but some are not.

374 Check as items are scanned and also check your receipts. Research shows that some grocery stores overcharge their customers on one out of our every three visits.

375 Ice cream can be preserved by placing wax paper directly on top of the ice cream before closing.

376 Always send in for the rebate on a purchase unless the rebate amount is less than

the price of an envelope and stamp.

377 to stay on budget. Resist the urge to overspend on unnecessary bargains that are not going into your food storage.

378 Look at discount food stores like Food 4 Less. Search for stores where you have to bring your own shopping bags or pay a nominal charge for them.

379 Go to bakery outlets for your bread needs.

380 Grow your own garden.

381 Give up that expensive cup of coffee in the morning. Two dollars a day is more than five hundred dollars at the end of a year and your health will improve.

382

Bring lunch to work.

383 Don’t use vending machines. Take your own snacks with you.

384 Reduce or eliminate the number of times you eat out. Use your crock pot ahead of time when you know you will be short on time.

385 Save money by making your own laundry detergent. Try to find ingredients at your local stores to save shipping costs. Those not found can be bought at soapsgoneby.com .

386 Check your items at the store before putting them in your cart to avoid such items as cracked eggs.

387 Decide which beauty products you can do without and stop buying them.

388

Decide which beauty products you can’t do without, see if other less expensive alternatives are available.

389 Bath products can be bought in bulk. Some include shampoo, conditioner, bath soap and razors.

390 Dollar stores are great places to purchase bargains. Check often as the inventory changes quickly.

391 Purchase cleaning products at dollar stores. Although most products are diluted they will still do the job.

392 Purchase beauty products at dollar stores. Shampoo, nail clippers and other items.

393 Purchase bath products at dollar stores. Bubble bath, sponges, powders and more.

394 Purchase gift wrap at dollar stores. These are typically the same quality as found in other discount stores, wrapping paper, gift bags and ribbons.

395 Purchase greeting cards at dollar stores. Most offer 2 for $1 for a variety of occasions, birthdays, get well and more.

396 Purchase scrapbooking supplies at dollar stores. Jars, baskets, kitchen containers and many others.

397 Purchase kitchen gadgets at dollar stores. Can openers, timers, measuring items and others.

398 Have a specific place for the money you are saving to go such as paying down credit cards or saving for a specific item- car, vacation, down payment on a home.

PURCHASES

Titus Plautus: “The day, sun, moon, night- I do not have to purchase these things with money.”

399 Make a wish list. Place items you don’t need but want here. When you meet your budget and have a little left over, you can use this list to decide which item you still want to buy.

400 Plan to spend less every day, simply follow the four Rs: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Repair.

401 Plan your purchases to avoid impulse buying.

402 Prioritize wants. Make a list of what you need and what you can cut.

403

Wait. Let some time and chances are you will realize you do not need the item.

404 Do your own home improvements with the assistance of places like Home Depot and Lowes. The employees there can walk you through the project or provide lower cost installations.

405 Keep receipts for all purchases that may require a refund or exchange.

406 Don’t do delivery for pizza, furniture etc unless you are ordering online or through pharmacies where it may be cost efficient.

407 Bring leftovers from restaurants home for another meal.

408 Say no to telephone fundraisers. You will be able to contribute again after you get your finances in order.

409 Do the seasonal cleaning on your lawn mower to avoid an early replacement.

410 Look for money-saving offers in your local newspaper.

411 Read not, waste not, don’t buy books, newspapers and magazines you are not going to read.

412 Allow your hair to go gray.

413 Don’t throw away pump bottles. Put shampoo in the empty bottles.

414 Don’t throw away dead batteries. Use them in quartz clocks.

415

Look for less expensive hobbies. For example, change golfing for jogging.

416 Clean your own carpet.

417 Get ink cartridges refilled.

418 Local beauty schools offer bargains for haircuts, manicures, facials and other beauty treatments.

419 Don’t own a pet.

420 Use cloth napkins instead of towels.

421 Use a gas dryer instead of an electric one.

422 Take advantage of free items- pens, pencils etc when you come across a giveaway and save them for future use.

423 Check on discounts offered by your job for things such as childcare, gyms, or even theme park tickets.

424 When making school projects try to find creative ways to use things at home rather than going to the arts and crafts store.

425 Stretch out the time between haircuts.

426 Don’t hold on to junk you are not using - stop paying for a storage unit.

427 If you need a tool for a short time don’t buy it, borrow it from a neighbor or friend instead.

428 Use baking soda for toothpaste.

429 Use baby shampoo for makeup remover.

430 Use makeup samples. It’s fun to have a new look for a short time.

431 Use homemade cleaning supplies. Not only are these cheaper but are better for you and the environment.

432 Use 10% water to stretch your shampoo and conditioner. You won’t notice the difference.

433 Buy seasoning in large packages rather than tiny packages. These can be found at online stores or some health food stores.

434 Try eating at a cafeteria, the food portions are larger.

435 Buy back packs that your kids can use for years, a specific character may be easily outgrown. Buy a sturdy one in solid colors instead.

436 Buy gender neutral baby clothing so you can use them again.

437 Buy your baby toys from the thrift store. Be sure to check for recalls.

438 Buy bulk for nonperishable items that you commonly use such as toilet paper.

439 Buy a refurbished rather than a new computer. Most will still carry manufacturer’s warranties.

440 Don’t overlook child and senior discounts.

441 Keep notes on pricing – this way you will know if a special is really a bargain.

442 that fancy packaging increases the price of products.

443 Buy the big bag rather than individual size packages.

444 Invest in a deep freezer for reserve food shopping.

445 Ask for discounts even when you don’t have a coupon.

446

When making a major purchase see if the store has last year’s models on sale.

447 Comparison shopping is especially important when shopping online. Be sure to include shipping costs.

448 Good insulation and windows are a good investment.

449 If bouncing checks is a problem, leave a “cushion” in your . When you reach the end of your funds the “cushion” will be there.

450 If you need an item only available at a pharmacy, compare several before you buy.

451 Investigate lower priced child care options.

452

Save on fabric softener sheets by cutting them in half.

453 Make your kids Halloween costumes.

454 When you sign up for something, ask for fees to be waived such as installation on cable.

455 Take one last look in your shopping cart, take out any impulse buys that have snuck in.

456 If at all possible delay making that purchase, it will cost 40% or more on top of the initial cost if you pay for it with a credit card.

457 If you are purchasing items simply to make it look like you are not poor, say a party at an acquaintance or eating out with your friends, simply excuse yourself and don’t go.

458 If you are buying it just to keep up with the Joneses, don’t.

459 Before you buy, ask yourself, Do I need it?

469 Before you buy, ask yourself, Do I already have something that will do?

461 Before you buy ask yourself, Can I delay the purchase?

462 Buy the least expensive item that will do the job.

463 Don’t buy clothes that are for dry cleaning only.

464

Create a separate checking for regular recurring expenses and another for big ticket items.

465 Look to see if the item you are buying has a price guarantee policy. This is usually given on appliances, if you do come across a lower price item claim your refund.

466 Make sure you know the store’s return policy when you buy something. The latest trend is for a store to refuse returns without a receipt.

467 If you’ve already purchased an item, check to see if it came with a warranty.

468 Always compare prices. The internet or the telephone are inexpensive ways of checking.

469 When shopping online first try to buy the items you need from places that offer free shipping like Amazon and Barnes and Noble.

470 Pool your purchases with relatives or friends to reduce overall shipping cost.

471 Warehouse Clubs like Sam’s Club, generally carry quality items at a discounted price. Look here if you need an appliance or computer.

472 If you need an appliance consider floor models, last year’s model, or a scratch and dent item.

473 If you need furniture and are not looking for a specific style, try highpointfurnituresales.com where you can buy direct form furniture manufactures even with shipping you save money.

474 If you need furniture consider buying it gently used at a thrift store.

475 Auction houses sell furniture that are not antique pieces at a deal.

476 Consignment stores are good places to find gently used furniture.

477 Estate sales are good places to look for furniture.

478 Never rent furniture. However rent furniture stores do sell items at a discounted price.

479 Watch out for bargains. Bargains are really spending less, not saving.

480 Go to freecycle.org. People who are looking to get rid of items, make them available for free to others.

481 Before purchasing an item, see if replacement parts are available.

482 Read the Penny saver. This online and print publication offers new and used items for sale at a discounted rate.

483 You can get low cost or even free parts for most games and toys by ing them through their websites or 1-800 numbers.

484 You can get china and other delicate items replaced at www.replacements.com

485 Replacement parts can also be found on eBay.

486 Redeem your gift cards. Some cards expire quickly. Others will be charged inactivity fees if they’re not used within a time frame.

487 Ask for discounts at the retail store with cash in hand. Many will accept an offer for about 20% less than the asking price.

488 If you are eligible use your senior discount. AARP.org has information on member discounts.

489 Buy only clothes that fit your look and style. Don’t buy it simply because it is a great deal. Clothes that are never worn even at a bargain price are expensive.

490 Make sure the clothes you buy complement your silhouette or frame. The clothes have to fit right.

491 Look at your favorite outfits, these make up your “look.” Stick with it.

492 Don’t buy into every fashion trend.

493 Shop at closeout stores for clothes. When places like Big Lots get name brand clothing, it can be bought at a good discount.

494 Buy your winter clothes at the end of the winter and the beginning of spring and summer clothing at the end of summer and beginning of fall.

495 To save on dry cleaning cost. Some items such as leather or suede can have the wrinkles removed if you hang them in the bathroom while you shower. The hot steam dissolves wrinkles.

496 If you have a stain on a piece of clothing, try to remove it yourself instead of sending it immediately to the dry cleaners.

497 Find out which colors look best on you. Those colors should make you shine. Don’t buy clothes in colors that don’t suit you.

498 Decide how many items of clothing you need and buy only when one of those items needs to be replaced.

499

Organize your closet, you may find you have clothing that you’ve forgotten about which you can use now.

500 Clothing can be bought on sales at a good price. Spring and summer clothes are discounted in June and July. Fall and winter items in January and February.

501 Create new outfits by mixing and matching.

502 Classic styles can be worn a lot longer than fad items.

503 Buy clothing in garage sales. Especially for children who quickly outgrow clothing.

504 Buy clothing in thrift shops.

505

Buy clothing at stores like Ross and Stein Mart. Don’t forget to check out the clearance racks.

506 Buy clothes at big box stores like Wal-Mart and Kmart. You’ll be surprised at some of the stylish bargains to be found there.

507 Accept any clothes for children given to you. Decide what to keep and on the rest.

508 If family ask you what to give your child for a birthday or Christmas gifts suggest a clothing item your child needs.

509 If you must buy children’s clothes from department stores, buy children’s clothes at Sears, because of their Kid advantage program, they will replace any article of clothing or shoes that is worn out before your child outgrows it in the same size.

510 If you find a great clothing item for your child, consider buying more than one perhaps two shirts in different colors.

511 Buy clothing from consignment shops. This is a great place to find high end items.

512 Buy clothing at warehouses.

513 Buy clothing at clothing outlets. Most high end clothing and shoe places have them.

514 Shop online. Auction sites are a great place to find gently used brand name items.

515 Buy children’s dress clothes at auction sites or consignment shops. Because these clothes typically do not get a lot of wear, they tend to be in great shape.

516 If you have smelly shoes, don’t throw them out. A dryer sheet in each shoe

overnight should do the trick.

HIDDEN FEES

Daniel Webster: “He who tampers with the currency robs labor of its bread.”

517 Look at the out the door cost. That inexpensive printer may require expensive cartridges.

518 Opt for a no-frills checking . This can save you several fees.

519 Even a free checking can have hidden fees. Look over your statement carefully.

520 Check your balance regularly to avoid overdraft fees.

521 Regularly balance your checkbook to avoid paying overdraft fees.

522 Order new checks through discount catalogs or an office-supply warehouse. These are cheaper than from your bank.

523 Avoid ATM fees by not using your card at all, if you must make sure you use your own bank’s ATM machines.

524 If you can’t imagine life without an ATM, consider opening an with an online bank, these often offer fee-free ATM access.

525 Some bank s have a monthly maintenance fee. Switch to free checking.

526 Some banks charge for talking to an representative. Switch banks immediately.

527 Checking on your bank by phone may cost you at some banks. Try

checking online through your bank’s website. You will need to set up an .

528 Some banks even charge you for requesting copies of your cancelled checks.

529 Some banks require a minimum balance or they will deduct your interest and or charge an additional fee. If you are not able to easily keep above the balance, change it to a different type of .

530 Overdraft fees at most banks are excessively high. They include fees plus interests. Link your checking to your savings or other so that the overdraft can be paid from there.

531 Always read the fine print in any description.

PROBLEMS WITH A PRODUCT OR SERVICE

Raymond Williams: “We need to establish better complaint procedures and policies so consumers know what their rights are. They don’t know what their rights are.”

532 Return your purchase for a refund or exchange.

533 If you are not satisfied with customer service, ask for the store manager.

534 If you are not satisfied with customer service or the manager, the corporate headquarters. If a phone number is unavailable, send an email or a written complaint.

535 In preparing your email or letter of complaint to be specific with the details of everything that happened to you. Don’t forget to include names and dates.

536 Don’t shoot yourself in the foot. Always be courteous, but assertive as your present your complaint verbally or in writing. Don’t use foul language.

537 that the manager or president have the power to make things right for you.

538 Many store are tightening up merchandise return policies. Beware of no refund policies.

539 Keep copies of any ing documents for major purchases or services including contracts and receipts

540 If you are sending a letter, send it certified mail. Certified mail will get the attention of management.

541 Keep a file of your complaints. If you have not heard from the store or company

after a few weeks, don’t hesitate to follow up with a phone call or email.

542 Purchases made by credit card can be credited back to your credit card. Your credit card can be credited for fraudulent products, charges and services.

543 Do your research. Some problems with major products or services can be resolved by ing the Better Business Bureau or checking internet consumer protection websites.

BUDGET

Sally Poplin: “Some couples go over their budgets very carefully every month; others just go over them.”

544 Track your spending for one month. Every time you spend more than a dollar write it down in a notebook. When you become aware of where your money goes, you will be more able to cut back.

545 You spend less when expenditures are tracked.

546 Use the envelope method. Divide money into the categories you need such as food, gas, etc. When the money is gone for the week, it is really gone. You don’t get new cash until the next week.

547 If your child is four years old and the public school offers pre-K, enroll your child. Enrollment will reduce child care costs by half. Busing is typically provided by the childcare company.

548 Just say no to school fundraisers. Volunteer your time instead, most teachers appreciate help grading and setting up/taking down volunteers for special events are always needed.

549 Consolidate your student loans.

550 Place all your coins in a jar. At the end of the year donate the coins to a charity and take a tax deduction.

551 For smaller goals, a painless and fun way to save is to pick a two digit number. Check all your dollar bills for these numbers and save them.

552 Take out enough cash from your paycheck to last until your next one.

553 Don’t be unrealistic with our budget.

554 Be honest with yourself, try to exercise a little more self control.

555 Be careful what you sign on for with debt consolidation companies.

556 The goal for consolidating debt should be lowering overall costs not monthly payments.

557 Develop a plan to pay off your debts in three to five years.

558 Plan for future expenses- doctor’s visit, car repair, a broken washer.

559 Use financial software to help keep your budget such as Microsoft Money.

560 Make a spending plan. Figure out where your money needs to go.

561 Give 10% to your favorite religious group, charity or non-profit organization.

562 Save 10% in an different than your checking.

563 Live on 80% of your net income.

564 Saving is not spending less. Setting money aside without spending is saving.

565 The only debt you should have is secured debt such as for a modest home and a good working car.

566

Use online bill pay to save on stamps- average savings annually is $70.

567 Have an emergency fund of about six month’s paychecks.

568 Use your credit card only for real emergencies, the car breaks down etc, but only until you have an emergency fund.

569 Themba Siyolo, the head of distribution at Sanlam: “No matter how much or how little money you have, start taking responsibility for what happens to it by drawing up a budget and taking control of your expenses and income. Then you can start planning for other things in your life such as your education, your family, your home, your car, your holidays, your retirement and so on. There is no excuse for delegating this responsibility or for allowing your money management to happen by default.”

INSURANCE

Salma Rumman (from article “25 signs you have grown up”): “Your insurance goes down and your car payments go up.”

570 Raise deductibles on any insurance and your s will be lower but be sure to have the amount of your deductible in the bank.

571 Everybody needs health insurance.

572 If you do not have health insurance, check for medical patient assistance programs.

573 Always declare any health problem when you take out life insurance. You may have to pay more in s, but at least your dependents will receive the money when a claim is made. If not your dependents may be left with nothing. The life insurance company is legally entitled to repudiate any claim when incorrect information is provided, even if it is not associated with the cause of death or disability.

574 Working couples have a choice of two employee health benefits, choose the best one.

575 If you don’t need health insurance coverage because your spouse provides it, see if you can get cash back or perhaps a raise in salary instead.

576 Avoid buying too much life insurance against death or disability. The purpose of life insurance is to ensure you and your dependents maintain a standard of living, not to turn your dependents into millionaires. Too much life insurance lowers your current standard of living especially if your monthly s are high.

577 If you need long-term care insurance, increase the waiting period to at least six months.

578 Fill prescriptions with generics, the active ingredient is the same as the pricey counterparts.

579 Get an annual physical to prevent and detect possible costly health problems.

580 Visit FreeMD.com for free advice from a virtual doctor.

581 Pay childcare with pretax dollars. your employer for details.

582 Disability insurance is needed in case you are unable to work.

583 Use free screenings at work, save the deductible.

584 A PPO health insurance may be cheaper that an HMO switch.

585

If you are self-employed, you may consider a high deductible plan to use HSAs.

586 If you have a medical prescription card, use it.

587 Be aware of your prescription deductible. If the prescription is a common one such as antibiotics, it may be cheaper than the deductible at places like Wal-Mart or Kmart with their $5 or less common prescriptions plan.

588 Check out mail order prescriptions.

589 If you need to lose weight, go on a diet. Lower your grocery bill and lose weight and be healthier at the same time.

590 Ask your doctor to write a three month prescription- instead of paying three co pays, you pay one.

591

Try a dental school or even your local college’s dental hygienist departments for cleanings and some teeth repairs. The services are deeply discounted.

592 Homeowner’s insurance is needed if you own a home. Shop around for the best rate.

593 Renter’s insurance is needed if you rent.

594 Learn to manage your money or someone else will be sure to mismanage it for you.

595 Always establish whether life insurance s are guaranteed- and for how long. It is best to get a longer term guarantee on your s.

596 Study your current homeowner’s insurance, if there is any coverage you can do without cut it.

597 If you own a condo, the condo association covers certain items, find out what those are and cut them out of your homeowner’s insurance.

598 If your mortgage is at 80% or less of the appraised value of your home, cancel the private mortgage insurance (PMI).

599 A pre-approval agreement on a mortgage bond before you start looking for a home will insure the best rate and the buyer will be more willing to sell to you knowing that the money is available.

600 If your home has appreciated in value, get an appraisal you might be able to cancel your PMI.

601 If you are doing something to protect your home such as reducing risk for mold damage notify your insurance company to lower your .

602

Automobile insurance is mandatory.

603 If you have two cars or more, insure them with the same company for a discount.

604 Pay your s every 6 months instead of every month to avoid financing charges.

605 If your car has safety features such as anti-lock brake system or alarm, be sure to tell the insurance agent, these features may reduce the and will add protection to your vehicle.

606 Be a conscientious driver, your car insurance company won’t increase your s.

607 When your children leave home for college or to be on their own make sure to adjust your car insurance policy.

608 If you have a teenage driver, have him/her take a drivers course, this will reduce the with most insurance policies.

609 If your teenage driver is using a family car, designate which one. Otherwise you will be charged a based on your most expensive vehicle.

610 You do not need mortgage life insurance. If you die before your house is paid for, the beneficiary of your term life insurance can use it to pay for the house.

611 You do not need credit card loss protection. Federal law limits your loss to $50. A lot of credit card companies also waive this $50 should your card be stolen.

612 Don’t sign up for car rental insurance. Rental cars are typically covered by your automobile insurance. You may even be covered by the credit card you used to book the rental.

613

Don’t purchase flight insurance, your life insurance will take care of an untimely death.

614 Don’t subscribe for accidental death insurance- it’s covered by your term life insurance.

615 Identity theft insurance is unnecessary.

616 If you participate in a flexible spending make sure you use it. Eligible expenses include health insurance co-payments, prescription and several nonprescription drugs, eyeglasses and lenses.

617 Are you healthy? Consider buying life insurance outside of your employer. It may be less since your employer’s plan is dependent on everyone including those with serious health problems at your work.

618 Review your insurances annually to make sure you are not over insured.

619 If you are single with no dependents, don’t forget the importance of disability insurance in the event you become ill or injured.

620 The best life insurance is term. Don’t let fast talking insurance agents talk you into a longer term policy. At the end of the policy term you can always extend the contract, but if you have to cut it short, there are penalties.

621 Life insurance is the best investment for your dependents. Life insurance benefits dependents immediately.

622 that where you live can affect the on your short-term insurance policy. If you are changing your address, check for a reduction in your .

GIFTS

Ralph Waldo Emerson: “The greatest gift is a portion of thyself.”

623 Have a gift budget, don’t spend more than this no matter how tempting. If you run out of gift budget, use your creativity instead.

624 Save all your change for the year and use this as your gift budget.

625 Use the funnies in the newspaper to wrap kids’ presents, for all others stock up on after-Christmas sale wrapping paper that can be used the whole year longsolid colors work well.

626 Save on stamps and greeting cards. Many website now offer free greeting cards for birthdays and other occasions.

627

Make your own greeting cards.

628 Make your own wrapping paper.

629 Make an agreement not to buy presents for family and friends this year.

630 Burn a CD with the person’s favorite music.

631 Burn a CD with pictures. You can also do a slide show set to music.

632 Give bake goods as a gift- everyone loves cookies.

633 Regift. Make sure you don’t give the gift back to the same person by using labels.

634 Make a wedding gift- it’s priceless and unreturnable. Make an unforgettable scrapbook, photo album, or something for the new home.

635 Newspaper inside plastic grocery bags to avoid smudging makes excellent packing material if you need to mail your gift.

636 Stock up on gift items when you come across them at a great price. A good time to stock up on toys is around January.

637 Write a letter for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day instead of an expensive present. It will be more appreciated.

638 Prepare a fancy meal at home instead of dining out.

639 Give your time or services as a gift.

640 Pick your own bouquet of wild flowers instead of buying them from a florist.

641 Write a poem.

642 Create a painting.

643 Make a craft.

644 Make a photo album of favorite memories.

645 Do a service for the person such as yard work or babysitting.

HOLIDAYS

Roy Smith: “He who has not Christmas in his heart will never find it under a tree.”

646 Go green and save. Buy a good quality artificial tree on the after-Christmas sale and reuse it for several years. Of course you will also save several real trees along the way.

647 Make a houseplant your Christmas tree.

648 If you are still making payments on last year’s holiday spending, don’t add more debt again this holiday season. Set aside whatever cash you have and only spend that.

649 If you are using a credit card for the holidays, subtract that amount from your checkbook immediately. At the end of the month when the bill arrives pay it in full.

650 Check your balances often during the holiday season or the total amount will shock you at the end of the holiday season. Checking often will curb your holiday spending before it gets out of control.

651 Review your finances carefully, set a limit to the amount you can spend on the holidays, when it runs out you are done with holiday shopping.

652 Before you go shopping make a spending plan and stick to it.

653 Shopping online can save you money and help you stay within your spending plan. But beware of scams and shop only on well establish sites that you recognize.

654 Your spending plan needs to include all things related to the holiday season. In addition to gifts, there are other expenses such as wrapping supplies, food, travel and decorations. Also allow for a few extra gifts in case you forget your cousin twice removed is coming to your holiday dinner.

655 When you are done shopping stay away from the stores. Chances are something will be on sale that will be hard for you to resist.

656 The old cliché that it is better to give than to receive is true. Give of yourself by volunteering at a local shelter, your local library or a rest home. If you like to sing go caroling instead.

657 If you have been assigned the holiday dinner in your family, make it a potluck to reduce one big bill.

658 Give coupons for items that are truly needed. For example three hours of babysitting a newborn so that the mom can rest.

659 Avoid going over your holiday budget. The gift you paid $10 for, may cost you $30 if you make only minimum payments on the credit card you used.

670

It is extremely hard to know that money you haven’t received yet, is already spent. It takes your financial choice away so don’t buy it if it is over your allowed budget.

TRAVELING & VACATIONS

Sheryl Garrett: “For most of us, it took years to develop bad financial habits. And it will take at least the same amount of time to develop the good habits we want. People spend more time planning their annual vacation than discussing their personal finances.”

671 Look for free attractions on the city where you live. Look for tourist brochures or try google.com type in the name of your city, the state and tourism.

672 Don’t use cabs. Walk or use public transportation.

673 Go camping.

674 Stay in hostels when traveling overseas.

675

When you travel to a location, don’t forget to ask the locals for low cost places to visit.

676 You don’t need a fancy hotel with bell people to tip. A hotel without unnecessary extras will still meet your needs.

677 Check the rate at hotels with a refrigerator and microwave. These extras can really save your food budget.

678 Never pay full price for a hotel. There are always discounts for which you qualify. You’ll often get those simply by booking online.

679 Call the exact hotel’s front desk. These can be the best deals.

680 To book a hotel, call the hotel directly on Sunday afternoons. This is usually a hotel’s down time and they are more willing to negotiate.

681 Ask if there will be any additional charges such as parking and local phone calls. The hotel rate may not be the best deal if these are not included.

682 Go online to find some of the best travel deals.

683 Don’t overlook the great places to visit in your local area.

684 When you eat at a restaurant, skip the sodas and choose water.

685 When you eat at a restaurant go for the specials, special of the day or early birds.

686 Choose inexpensive items at a restaurant such as soup.

687

Choose vegetarian items at a restaurant.

688 When eating out, make a meal with one appetizer and a soup or salad.

689 If you decide to go for fast food, stick to the 99 cents or one dollar menu items.

690 Go to a restaurant that has Kids Eat Free when parents purchase a meal.

691 If you plan ahead you can use coupons at the restaurant.

692 Visit lesser known destinations. Save money and avoid crowds.

693 Add some free items to your vacation such as museums. Have an envelope for the allotted cash for one day so you won’t go over budget.

694 If you do decide on a well known destination, think of ways to cut expenses. Did you know that Disney has camping options?

695 Travel after peak season. Rates are discounted.

696 If you can be flexible with the dates you want to travel choose the days with the best deals for such things as flights and hotels.

697 Compare rates online and then visit the airline with the best deal directly on its website. This will often save a booking fee.

698 Purchase tickets online. In most cases it is a 10% savings.

699 Fly on a smaller airlines, these are often cheaper.

700 Avoid the fly now, pay later philosophy. It can be very depressing to be paying for a vacation five years later, when you want another.

701 Check out departures from all airports in your area, the difference in prices will surprise you.

702 Always buy airline tickets in advance.

703 Make sure any quoted airline ticket price includes taxes and fees, otherwise it may not be a bargain.

704 If you fly often the frequent flier program.

705 If your cheapest option is to fly, use it even if you have an infant. Some airlines will let children under two ride for free if they sit on your lap or you can buy a

seat at a discounted rate.

706 Vacation destinations within driving distance are cheaper than flying. If your vacation spot is too far away it may be best to fly after adding up cost of hotels and eating out along the way.

707 Travel during the off season. It pays to find out when these are for your specific destination.

708 Don’t pay for expensive parking. There is usually free parking a few blocks away with a very short walk.

709 Ask if your hotel has free shuttle to popular tourist destination. Hotels near major attractions usually provide them.

710 If you need a rental car, rent the smallest one you’ll need. Save on rental cost and gas.

711 If you are a repeat customer at a hotel, ask for a discount.

712 City hotels tend to be cheaper on the weekend. Resort places tend to be cheaper during the week.

713 If you will be staying for a week or more, consider renting a furnished home or apartment or an extended stay and save big on eating out.

714 Camp. National parks, beaches, and even Disney world have designated camping areas.

715 Check out all-inclusive deals. These include food, transportation, lodging and sometimes airfare.

716 Do consider kid-friendly luxury locales. Look for these deals online.

717 Check out the car rental agreement before you sign, it probably includes additional insurance. It is unnecessary because you are already covered if you have car insurance.

718 Make sure to return car rentals with the gas tank filled. Otherwise you may pay up to $6 a gallon.

719 Avoid taxi cabs, take public transportation as much as possible.

720 Watch out for hotel hospitality fees -these can include housekeeping gratuities mini-bars parking and even local phone calls.

721 While on vacation budget the amount you can spend per day in cash, this will reduce your overall cost.

722 Travel with cold drinks in a cooler and snacks. You won’t pay outrageous prices

on these at every stop.

723 Do not purchase film, sunscreen etc at tourist spots, you will pay more.

724 Skip the curb side check-in and use a time-saving kiosk or check in online.

725 Bring your own snacks, meals and headphones for your flight.

726 If you are traveling with your family, book a suite at an extended stay hotel that has a kitchen. Making your own meals will save you $70 or more from eating out.

727 Watch out for “all-inclusive” travel deals. There are often other fees such as certain menu items being extra. Ask a lot of questions.

ENTERTAINMENT

Anthony Robbins: “We are not in an information age, we are in an entertainment age.”

728 Borrow books from the library instead of buying them, unless you are going to read or refer to them more than once.

729 CDs and movies can be checked out at the library for free, rather than purchasing them.

730 If you enjoy reading magazines, subscribe at freemagazines.com

731 Use your local park as a workout station.

732

Have a game night- spend time with family and friends with board games or electronic games.

733 Instead of going out with friends, invite them into your home for a night in.

734 Check the local arts scene- poetry reading, art shows.

735 Cancel expensive health club hips and still get the benefits. Learn to exercise outdoors at local parks.

736 Look for free magazines for children. For example you can subscribe to receive a magazine at lego.com if your child is interested in Lego.

737 Get an inexpensive gym hip by g up for a community college class and using you student identification to get into the college gym.

738

Host a movie night- invite family, neighbors and friends.

739 Attend a high school sports event rather than college or pro sports event. These are either free or very low cost.

740 Attend a community festival.

741 Trade video games.

742 Organize a book or film club.

743 Look for new restaurant specials.

744 Eating at a restaurant- split the entrée or ask for half an order.

745 Avoid eating out on weekends - prices are always higher on the weekend.

746 Find cheap hobbies like walking or blogging.

747 Buy an annual for a zoo, museum or park.

748 Get in free to symphonies and theatres by volunteering to be an usher.

749 Attend a community concert.

750 Go to the park.

751 Go jogging or hiking.

752 Identify inexpensive entertainment options.

753 Rent DVD’s from Red Box. One dollar per day – return as soon as possible.

754 Don’t pay full price for movies, go to matinees, or even better dollar theatres. Skip the treats.

755 Colleges often have movie theatre at greatly reduced rates. Selection is not the greatest, but you may find something you like.

756 Review concert and plays for a local newspaper. If your work is accepted, you will get seats in the best section of the house.

757 Enter radio concert ticket giveaways. Your best chance are college radio stations.

758 Local artist events are usually low cost or free.

759 Volunteer for an event, you will get in free and will typically be offered discount tickets for others.

760 Go out to lunch rather than dinner.

761 If you are flying, weigh your luggage at home to make sure it doesn’t cost you extra. If you need to carry more than 50 pounds, divide it into 2 suitcases.

762 Carry your own snacks for the plane ride, most airlines now charge for soda and other items.

763 Don’t overlook free magazine subscriptions. For example, kraft.com offers the Food&Family magazine free of charge.

764 Restaurant prices are often cheaper during the weekdays than on the weekends.

765 Ethnic restaurants offer more food for the money, such as Chinese or Mexican.

766 Make a meal out of the appetizer menu.

767 Have a nice meal at home and go out just for dessert.

768 Order out and you will save the tip.

LOANS

Norman Augustine: “It’s easy to get a loan unless you need it.”

769 Debt for a modest home is a smart decision. It is secured debt because the house can be sold at any given time to pay off the loan.

770 Debt for a decent car is acceptable although the best way is to have no payments at all.

771 Debt for a college education is a good investment.

772 Avoid expensive debt. For example, borrowing against a credit card is far more expensive than borrowing against a home loan. The difference can be more than 10 percentage points.

773

If you can get out of the loan by selling the item say house or car then the loan is secured and typically of the better types of loans.

774 A loan should never be taken out for something that will last for less than three years.

775 A loan should never be taken for something that will not increase in value.

776 A loan should never be taken that does not have a reasonable interest rate.

777 If you already carry other loans in addition to education, house or car loans, pay those first.

SAVING & INVESTING

Wilma Mokupo, the head of pensions at the Financial Services Board: “If you are a retirement fund member: ensure you read and understand your retirement fund rules; make sure that you receive regular benefit statements outlining all your benefits; and monitor the performance of your own board of trustees. The regulator depends on and other stakeholders to report wrongdoing.”

778 Avoid all get rich schemes. If it sounds too good to be true it is. This includes pyramid schemes.

779 If your company offers free retirement advice, take it and become informed.

780 Involve the entire family in developing, discussing and implementing a savings plan. Even your youngest child can contribute to the savings plan.

781 Plan rewards to motivate your family to achieve your savings goal.

782 You can talk to financial planners for free through newspaper money show or local events.

783 Open an online savings with typically higher rates than your local bank.

784 Don’t make any investment that will cause you to lose sleep at night.

785 Check the costs of any investment product. Some products are too expensive. You should be given a breakdown of the costs as a percentage of your investment.

786 Plan to participate in company retirement plans to save on taxes.

787 High gain, high risk propositions such as an unbelievable savings rate from an uninsured bank almost always end up badly for the investors.

788 Save all your loose change. At the end of the year put it into your savings .

789 If your utility bills are less than normal one month. Deposit that into your savings .

790 Have you diversified your investments? Diversifying your investments will ensure you don’t lose everything if one investment plummets.

791 If you have a loss on your Roth IRA (the current balance is less than your contribution), take out the balance and claim a deduction for the loss on Schedule A of your tax return.

792 Avoid paying penalties on retirement distributions by waiting until you-re over age 59 ½ to make withdrawals.

793

Put investments that generate ordinary income in tax-deferred s.

794 If you get a tax refund, immediately deposit it into your savings , otherwise it will slowly disappear from your checking.

795 The next time you get a raise, put it into your savings. You won’t miss it because you are used to living without it.

796 Have your received a pay increase lately? Set aside 10 percent of your pay increase towards savings, especially a long-term savings such as a retirement plan. Retirement fund contributions will increase automatically in proportion to your pay increase. This financial strategy will ensure that you stay well ahead of inflation.

797 If you get paid bi-weekly, you will get “extra” checks. Deposit them into your savings.

798 If you get a cash back reward on your credit card, deposit that into your savings.

799 Give up smoking, bank the savings and enjoy the health benefits.

800 Give up gambling, the chances of you being struck by lightning are better. This includes slot machines, internet casinos and lottery tickets of any kind. Put the money in savings instead.

801 Give up all alcoholic beverages, bank the savings and enjoy the health benefits.

802 Get your whole family to help save and reward them with a trip that is low cost such as a local art museum or a special treat.

803 Have a clear objective for every dollar saved and invested. A clear goal will help you better plan.

804 If you will need your money before 5 years place it in a certificate of deposit,

money market or savings . If you are saving for say retirement, try mutual funds.

805 A safe investment is a US Savings Bond. It may not give you the highest return but the security may be worth it.

806 Don’t be fooled by investment products that are too complicated to understand. It does not mean you are ignorant. It means that the product provider is trying to baffle you.

807 Consider ETF’s exchange-traded funds.

808 Diversify your portfolio through mutual funds.

809 Avoid buying mutual funds immediately before capital gains distributions.

810

If you own an inherited IRA stretch out the tax deferral by taking the exact minimum distribution.

811 Pay attention to expense ratios, overtime the lower ratios will significantly add to your savings.

812 Pay attention to mutual fund brokerage fees, overtime they will significantly reduce your savings.

813 If you use prior-year capital-loss carry forwards to net out realized capital gains you’ll save on taxes.

814 Consider holding stock option shares after exercise for at least one year, you’ll pay capital gains tax on the appreciation when you sell.

815 When you finish making payments such as a car loan, continue making payments to yourself and place it in a savings .

816 For peace of mind, only invest in what you can perfectly understand and at a risk you can tolerate.

817 The bigger your asset allocation in mutual funds toward stocks, the higher the return.

818 Look at mutual funds that have a 5 year or better record. Morningstar is a good place to start your research.

819 Serious investments are like serious medical conditions - always get a second opinion. The internet is a great resource for second opinions.

820 Regular investments from each paycheck work best for long term goals.

821 Gamblers trade shares for short-term gain. Don’t be surprised when you lose money with this approach.

822 Sir John Templeton offers a great investment slogan to live by: “The time of maximum pessimism in the stock market is the time to buy; the time of maximum optimism is the time to sell.”

823 Check your investment product to see if it is ed with the Financial Services Board (FSB). If it is not ed and something goes wrong, you might lose your money.

824 Investors who are making long term investments don’t panic when markets fall. Investors in the short term, use a bank term deposit or a money market .

825 Should you pay a fee or commission for financial advice? Fees are better for large amounts of money and a commission for smaller amounts.

826 Don’t invest in unlisted companies. Unlisted companies are not properly regulated and are the home for many scam artists.

827 Your financial planner should be accredited by the Financial Planning Institute. Unqualified consultants should not offer advice.

828 Don’t use money to pay off debt for investments. Paying off debts is an investment.

829 Are you nearing retirement? Begin planning your retirement at least three to five years before your retirement, so that you understand all your options and are not rushed into any last-minute decisions.

830 Avoid investments shrouded in secrecy. You will probably lose your money.

831 Check financial advisor commissions. Some financial products include high costs and commissions.

832 Avoid financial recommendations from hairdressers and well meaning neighbors

seek qualified advisors

833 Over 50 million Americans telecommute. Get hired for an online position and work from home.

834 Keep only two months of your emergency fund in a savings . Put the other four into an interest bearing CD or money market.

835 If you have bounced checks in the past, sign up for overdraft protection – preferably linked to a savings . There may be charge of $5 but if you use it but it can save you up to $100 in bank and merchant penalties.

836 If you are considering a move or retirement, check for places that have a lower cost of living or lower tax rates.

RAISING FUNDS

George Clason: “Money is plentiful for those who understand the simple laws which govern its acquisition.”

837 Have a yard sale. It will declutter your home and provide funds. Neighborhood sales tend to be more successful so get the neighbors involved.

838 List and sell unique items on eBay.

839 Go through your storage and sell unused items.

840 Check with the state government to see if you have money owed to you from unclaimed s. For more information go to the National Association of Unclaimed Property s’ website.

841

House sit.

842 Networking is a great way to see if anyone needs your skills.

843 Develop a waiting service- charge by the hour.

844 Start a blog and add Adsense.

845 Become a consultant.

846 Partner with neighbors for yard sales.

847 Become live in help.

848 Do freelance work - writing, photography, art, programming on the side.

849 Organize an errand service.

850 Your hobbies can be a source of extra money.

851 Don’t overlook using a temporary employment agency.

852 Try Craigslist.com for requests for work and services.

853 Find items in garage sales, consignment shops, second hand stores, flea markets etc. for resale such as antiques or cookie jars. You will likely have more success if you specialize.

854 Take any items you think may be valuable to an appraiser and then sell them.

855 your items for sale in the Penny saver. It is one of the most inexpensive ways to .

856 Participate in hospital research studies. Marketing companies might pay you for your thoughts and surveys.

857 If you are facing severe financial difficulties don’t overlook public aid such as food pantries.

858 Collect money from people who have borrowed from you.

859 Collect your child .

860 Take clothing in good condition that you no longer wear to a consignment shop.

861 Donate unused or good condition items to charity and save the receipt for a tax deduction.

862 Do your own yard work.

863 Wash your own car.

864 Get a part-time job. Babysitting, tutoring or certain companies allow you to work from home. Try alpineaccess.com they hire customer service representatives.

865 Ask for a raise.

866 Work overtime.

867 Take a second part-time job.

868 Take a third part-time job.

869 Sell something that you no longer use but is draining your such as a boat, recreation vehicle, motorcycle or extra car you never drive. These require insurance, registration fees and maintenance even when not in use.

870 If you have a spare room, consider renting it. Take all the precautions a landlord would take.

871 Don’t drink or smoke. It is very expensive and detrimental to your health and well being.

872 Apply for a government loan to start a small business.

873 Recycle cans, glass bottles, newspapers, whatever a recycling center will pay you for you. You will make a little money and make the world a much better place.

874 Your hobby can make money. Sell the items you make or teach others how to do it through a paid class.

875 Deliver new large vehicles to dealerships such as buses, RV’s, vans and limos.

876 Be a movie extra.

877 Be a dog walker.

878 Be a poll worker. Do more than just vote.

879 Be a home organizer. This can be done in your spare time.

880 Online life coaching.

881 Put ments on your car.

882 Be an event planner such as wedding or retirement party.

883 Rent inflatable’s for children’s birthday parties. You may need an assistant for setting up and cleaning up but demand is high.

884

If you are skilled in an area such as sewing, teach a class at a community center.

885 Sell digital photos online. Bigstockphoto.com is one of many websites that will pay you a percentage each time your photo is used.

886 Be a mystery shopper for a restaurant or store.

887 Try a cleaning job. Spring clean someone’s house.

888 Become a temp. Every city has a job service offering temporary employment.

ATTITUDE

Charles Swindoll: The longer I live, the more I realize the impact of attitude on life. Attitude, to me, is more important than facts. It is more important than the past, the education, the money, than circumstances, than failure, than successes, than what other people think or say or do. It is more important than appearance, giftedness or skill. I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90% how I react to it. And so it is with you. We are in charge of our attitudes.”

889 Be grateful for what you have. This will help you feel not so bad about cutting back.

890 Keep in mind that managing possessions is stressful and time consuming and collecting stuff is addictive.

891 Visualize. Imagine what it will be like when you are finally debt free. It will help keep you focus on your goals.

892 Before getting married, discuss finances. If you are married and have not done

so you are way overdue.

893 Don’t discuss money while tired, hungry, upset or doing a chore. Talk about money issues when both parties are rested and available.

894 Instead of spending money, try spending more time together. This can be more satisfying than any purchase.

895 Take bubble baths or find other inexpensive ways to indulge to help you avoid financial splurges.

896 If you insist on buying designer clothes try Target. They carry some lines from famous designers Kohl’s (it carries the Vera Wang clothing line).

897 If your child insists on designer tennis shoes, try Starbury shoes which retail for $14.95 from Stephon Marbury (NBA player).

898 Limit television watching. The more television watching you do the more ads you will see.

899 Most Americans do not enjoy their work. Find work that you enjoy doing.

900 Financial goals start as a dream, but with some intelligent planning, determination, and communication, you can turn your goals and dreams into reality.

901 Money should be spent on making life comfortable. Once you have the basic comforts, it is very important that you set aside money for a rainy day. No one knows what the future holds.

902 Rich people set their sights on assets. Robert Kiyosaki observed: “The number one rule is to know the difference between an asset and a liability. The rich focus on their asset columns while everyone else focuses on their income statements. The more money that goes into my asset column, the more my asset column grows. The more my assets grow, the more my cash flow grows. And as long as I keep my expenses less than the cash flow from these assets, I will grow richer, with more and more income from sources other than my physical labor.”

903 Little things are big things applies to using money. Benjamin Franklin wrote: “Beware of little expenses; a small leak will sink a great ship.”

904 Keep your sense of humor. How about these humorous thoughts on money: A favorite bumper sticker says- Anyone who says money can’t buy happiness just doesn’t know where to shop. Rita Davenport said: “Money isn’t everything, but it ranks up there with oxygen.”

905 Money can’t buy everything. George Lorimer said: “It’s good to have money and the things that money can buy, but it’s good, too, to check up once in a while and make sure that you haven’t lost the things that money can’t buy.” And don’t forget what Henry Ford said: “If money is your hope for independence you will never have it. The only real security that a man will have in this world is a reserve of knowledge, experience, and ability.”

906 Develop a “get out of debt” attitude. According to Elizabeth Warren: “Your bills tell your past, but they also tell your future. Every debt, every monthly payment, every dollar you owe is a claim against your future. Debt affects what you can — and cannot — do about your future. And when you pay off the credit cards and IOUs, you open up new worlds of financial possibilities for yourself. You have more to spend, more to save, and a whole lot less to worry about.”

907 Face your fears about the way you handle money. Dr. Maria Nemeth observed: “It is challenging to face the “dark side” of how you handle money — or the doubts, fears, worries, and thwarted hopes that may appear. Sometimes it’s hard to see the hidden treasure, but when we tell the truth about what we see, even when we don’t want to see it, we’re given even more strength.”

908 Avoid the “have it all” mentality. Joe Dominguez said: “We build our working lives on this myth of more. Our expectation is to make more money as the years go on. We will get more responsibility and more perks as we move up in our field. Eventually, we hope, we will have more possessions, more prestige, and more respect from our community. We become habituated to expecting ever more of ourselves and ever more from the world, but rather than satisfaction, our experience is that the more we have, the more we want — and the less content we are with the status quo. If you live for having it all, what you have is never enough. In an environment of more is better, “enough” is like the horizon — always receding. You lose the ability to identify that point of sufficiency at which you can choose to stop.”

909 Turn your financial failures into success. Napoleon Hill observed: “Before success comes in any man’s life, he’s sure to meet with much temporary defeat and, perhaps some failures. When defeat overtakes a man, the easiest and the most logical thing to do is to quit. That’s exactly what the majority of men do. But most great people have attained their greatest success just one step beyond their greatest failure.”

910

Focus on your needs. Lionel Karp, independent financial adviser and host of Financially speaking on Radio 702/567 Cape Talk: “Always think of your finances in of your needs, not your wants. Most acquisitions – cars, houses, boats and so on – are wants, not needs. Financial planning is just the opposite. If you look at it in of what you need, you will make far more informed decisions. Wants relate to your heart, while financial planning should come from your head.”

911 Be enthusiastic. Charles Schwab said: “A man can succeed at almost anything for which he has unlimited enthusiasm.”