Making the Most of your Income

• It sounds simple, but make sure you have a budget. Map out all of your expenses versus your income to see where your income is going. It is also a good idea to keep a spending journal for all of your purchases and review this monthly. This will give you an idea of areas you can trim or expand.
  

• Shopping and doing research online are great ways to learn about items and find the best deals. It will also save you gas money when you find the store with the best price and shop there versus driving to many stores to view their prices. If you do not have a home computer, check your local library.
  

• Know your options. Many people shop at the same stores and are aware of the return policy. Be sure you are familiar with the store’s policy. Many times their policy can be found on the back of their receipt or online, as well as at the store.
  

• Read and understand contracts. Be sure you understand anything that you sign. Take your time and ask questions. Also be sure to ask for a copy for your records.
  

• There are resources you can use to check out a company and a product such as Consumer Reports and the Better Business Bureau.
  

• When sending money through the mail, use check or money order. Do not send cash in the mail. Keep a copy of any paperwork or order forms you send through the mail. If necessary, check with the Post Office for ways to send your items so that they have to be signed for by the recipient.
  

• Bring a calculator shopping with you. This way you can keep track of your purchases as you shop.
  

• Review your receipt and make sure you were charged the correct price before leaving the store.
  

• Two words…Rain Check. A rain check is something some stores offer when a particular item that is on sale is out of stock. Ask to see if the store can give you a rain check to get the sale price when the item is back in stock.
  

• Many times our money goes towards convenience. Convenience stores can be more expensive because of the service they are offering. Also, fast food can add up quickly compared to preparing a meal at home.
  

• Check your home for any leaks that can cause heating or cooling to escape. Areas of concern can be windows and vents to the outside.
  

• A programmable thermostat can help save money by not using the heat or air conditioning when you are not home. Please keep your indoor pets in mind when programming your thermostat.
  

• Shades and other window coverings can be used to help keep the sun out if needed and help keep your heat/air in.
  

• Make sure your home’s heating and cooling units are working properly. An efficient unit will help save on utility bills.
  

• Clean the vents in your home and on your appliances. This will help them work more efficiently, helping you save on energy.
  

• Check with your utility company about any special rebate programs they may offer regarding energy efficient appliances, before making a major purchase.
  

• The Internet is useful for researching. It can also allow you to communicate with friends and family who are long distance through email, webcams and microphones.
  

• Using cold water when washing clothes can save on energy bills.
  

• Be sure to measure before buying larger items so you know they will fit in your home and intended area. Bring a swatch of paint or a piece of fabric from the room to make sure you are getting the color you want.
  

• Be sure to read the small print when it comes to specialty offers. There are often limitations or certain requirements that must be met.
  When you need your carpets cleaned, compare hiring a service to renting a machine for the day and doing it yourself.
  

• When buying a larger appliance, not only do you want to take measurements of the available space, you want to make sure you know what kind of connections you have in terms of outlets, gas and/or water.
  

• Make sure you keep all your paperwork for larger items such as receipts and warranties. Start a file, so that you know where to look if you have questions.
  

• Sometimes it is better to buy a new appliance than it is to repair an old one. Check online and with the manufacturer for recommendations.
  

• We are seeing a trend in more energy efficient products that are better on our wallet and on our environment.

• An item might be more expensive, but could save on energy bills in the long run. Some washers also save on water and detergent as well (they are usually front loading machines). Talk to the salesperson about the different options available. Some new dryers have sensors that turn off the cycle when the clothes are dry, rather than being set on a timer and running too long.
  

• Take advantage of what your community has to offer. You can check to see if they offer free parks, museums and sports.
  

• Evaluate your lifestyle to see if you can save money by cutting out more expensive items. One great way for a healthier wallet and body is to quit smoking. Check for free programs through your insurance or other organizations to help you stop.
  

• Try to schedule your vacations for off-peak times versus the busiest times of year.
  Check out hotels where children can stay for free. Also ask about any discounts you may receive for AAA, being in the military, or being a senior citizen.
  

• The library is also another great place to check out not only books, but videos and CD’s as well.
  

• Keep your car running efficiently by getting routine maintenance checks and oil changes. Take care of your car by checking your tires. Check their pressure and wear to the outside.
  

• An automatic car can have higher gas mileage than a manual transmission.
  

• Improve gas mileage by removing unnecessary weight caused by items stored in your car.
  

• Be sure to educate yourself on how to care for your car and refer to the manual for questions you can answer on your own.
  

• It sounds simple, but try carpooling to help save money. Also make one trip to several stores rather than several trips to one store at a time.
  

• Research airline ticket prices by looking online and by calling the airlines. Try different times of day and different airports to get a better price.
  

• When preparing to move, start collecting good boxes you can get for free. Remember smaller boxes are easier to carry and load.
  

• Consider a garage sale or donating items you may no longer need to charity instead of moving them with you.
  

• Be sure to compare plans when it comes to getting a credit card. Go over the small print, look for a fair plan, and ask any questions you may have. Some cards will also offer rewards to its users.
  

• You can reduce finance charges by paying your bill before the due date. The quicker the company receives your payment, the sooner your balance is lowered.
  

• Credit cards should be paid off as soon as possible. Try to always pay more than the minimum payment each month.
  

• Be sure to keep a list of your credit cards and respective account numbers so you know who to contact in the event they are lost or stolen.
  

• Be careful with cash advances. Know the terms and conditions before using this option.