Anyone have some money-saving tips for this economy? I have spent the last hour calling all of our bills to?

Question

see what we could lower. 
Electric: unplug everything not in use, and set temp. to auto instead of just turning it on whenyou want it on

Cable: cut services from $160 (was $130 but our promotion ended) to $105!!!! (need internet for college classes)

Cell Phones: cut "phone insuance" for 12.95 a month and when our contract is up in june, we are shutting off the 2nd line, because I would rather keep out house phone (I am ususally home anyways) 

Honda Dirtbike: by doubleing our payment for 6 months, we will pay it off instead of having 4 months of pure interest payments.

I am going to call the auto insurance next, to see if we can raise our deductable for now.For home owners insurance, we switched companies, bringing it from $2700 year to $530 a year!! We also skipped the personal property coverage FOR NOW that is $100 month. I have been cutting coupons and planning my weekly meals, which cut our groceries by ALOT!! I only buy what we need for that week, and do end up wandering the store, I only get whats on the list.

Do you have any other tips to share, that could cut your household expenses?

HEATHER · Accepted Answer

You are on the right track.  Try to see where you can cut down on everyday household stuff too. I started buying those handiwipe things instead of going through rolls of paper towels. I use "good" detergent for our clothes but use the bargain stuff for sheets and towels.  Buying Suave shampoo/conditioner/deodorant and stuff is a lot less than the pricey brands.  You can get a lot of different cleaning products at the dollar store too, as well as stuff like ziploc bags and paper cups. Do not renew magazine subscriptions unless absolutely necessary, check out books from the library or swap with friends instead of purchasing.  Check thrift stores for clothing.

Anonymous · Answer

Same as you did on the home insurance, shop around to see if you can halve your car insurance, if you haven't checked out recent prices, do so as some insurers are doing all they can to get your business.
These make the job easier as you get back a number of quotes. http://www.bestinternetfind.solutionsarticles.com/carquote.php?id=ap3
also do the same with your internet connection as $105 seems to me like 2 times (easy) what you could pay.

Unsub29 · Answer

It sounds like you are doing a great job.

I would continue to differentiate between needs and wants. It's not always. (for me that is true) I would reduce the wants. 

Limit the treats. (make coffee at home - buy in bulk - what makes sense - look for sales) - Clothing/shoes - don't buy it unless it's a good deal and you love it - shop around - be patient

uskillas · Answer

- I paid off all my debt, saving $500/month.
- I moved closer to work so I can walk (don't have to pay for transit or gas).
- Instead of spending money when I want to, I put aside $1,000/month for entertainment and stay within that limit.
- I buy movies at the chinese store for $2 instead of renting them from blockbuster for $6.
- I eat lunch at home instead of eating at restaurants.
- I unsubscribed to LeafsTV to save $3/month.
- I keep $5,000 in my bank account so I don't have to pay banking fees (save $13/month).
- I pre-drink before going out to the bars, saving approx. $100/outing.

The little things can really save money.

Anonymous · Answer

Visit http://www.iteya.com - It lists online & printable coupons and allows you to earn points towards gifts certificates like Amazon.com for shopping online and referring friends.

Anonymous · Answer

I just read an article on this.  http://money-411.com/finding-money-to-pay-down-debt/

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Anyone have some money-saving tips for this economy? I have spent the last hour calling all of our bills to?

6 Answers