You Have How Many Monthlies?
Welcome back!
In this time of economic recession people are paying a lot more attention to their pocketbooks than they were a year ago. For many the stack of bills coming in the mailbox just keeps getting bigger, and for some, more threatening. I know this is true in my case. I was young and stupid once, and now I am paying for it. However, past mistakes are not a total loss, now is the time to evaluate what bills you are actually paying each month. There are so many things that can be cut from your monthly expenses if you take the time to think about it. Here are my top tips for re-evaluating how to cut that pile in half.
What are you actually paying?
I think this is particularly prevalent in credit situations. You have the right to check your interest rate and monthly minimum payments. If you don’t like the current situation with your creditors, call them and tell them. If they won’t work with you, threaten to close your account, that usually prompts action. As a customer it is your responsibility to check your billing statements. When I upgraded to a new cell phone, the cell phone carrier did not set up my contract correctly and I was majorly overcharged. I always check my bill and I am glad I did in that case. I would have paid almost $200 in fees.
What services can you actually afford?
In our modern lives there are all kinds of little services that gobble cash a little bit at a time, that add up in your monthly budget. Dry cleaning is a great example. They can be really expensive. When I worked in the cooperate setting, my local cleaners knew me by name. I never hand washed my suits. Well, it turns out a lot of stuff that has a dry cleaner tag, can actually be hand washed and laid flat to dry. I use Woolite, works like a gem.
I had to take a hard look at what my biweekly trips to the salon was costing me. While I do love to be pampered, it is pricey. I love to take the time just for myself, and I thought that was the only way I could get it. Well, tea and an old black and white movie at home is free, and it is me time. It may not be as glamorous but, what can a girl do in this depression?
Are your household expenses in line with your budget?
While most of us do not pay outside help to come in and assist them with the running of it. A cleaning lady, nanny and landscaper, are more prevalent in suburbia today. I employ none of the above, but for those who are trying to cut back, this might be a good place to start. Let a neighborhood boy or girl cut your lawn. If you are looking for less expensive child care, put an ad up in your local high school.
Energy expenses can always be cut in your home. As it has been said time and again, turn down your heat. An extra sweater or a blanket can be an essential when trying to cut your energy bills. There are so many resources to help you save, look for them and do your homework. My husband and I keep our thermostat at 66 degrees in the winter and 72 in the summer. A few degrees in temperature can amount to a few hundred dollars less on your next bill.
Really take a look at what you are paying for. You work hard for your money, don’t just give it away. Really evaluate what you actually need and really want to pay for. Check every bill, even receipts, you’ll be amazed how many times you are accidentally overcharged.
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