Saving $50 is easier than you think. Here are some easy ways to get more money in your pocket. Want bigger savings? Combine more than one of the following strategies:
Replace a single processed food that you normally purchase with one that you make from scratch. For example, instead of a tub of mashed potatoes or macaroni and cheese, or boxed vegetables with sauce, use a real recipe. You can still get the convenience if you take a Saturday morning to cook extra and freeze.
Examine your cable bill. There may be premium channels that you can do without, or a package that can be downgraded.
Decide to eat in instead of eating out. The average restaurant bill is $50. If you choose fast food, it may take skipping two or three trips to equal the $50.
Instead of using the ATM frequently and garnering fees, choose to either take money out of the ATM once a month, take it out at the bank, or use the cash back service at your local grocery, retail or convenience store.
Go meatless for two meals a week. In four weeks, the savings difference should equal about $50 for a family of four. You’ll reap the savings faster if your family is larger.
Contact your insurance company and ask for a lower rate for a good driving record or if you bundle home and auto insurance together. Price compare and ask your company to match someone else’s deal.
Install a programmable thermostat. There is a small initial investment for the device, but even with that, you’ll save your $50 in just a few winter months.
Drop the gym membership and exercise at home or close to home. Use free on-demand workouts through your television, pick up a couple of exercise videos at your local thrift store, find free equipment through Freecycle.org or start a running group at a local park or track. You’ll save your $50 or more in a single month.
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