Economic woes and an increase in consumer prices have made sticking to a budget even more difficult for families across North America. People who were already struggling financially under the burden of debt and poor savings may be feeling the pressure even more intensely now.
Primerica presents six tips to help you have more and spend less.
1. Cut energy use.
Simply sealing a home properly can help you eliminate 25% of your heating and cooling costs.1 Many utility service providers provide free or discounted energy audits. If this option isn’t available, you can always go the professional route, or do a self‑check using the steps found at Energy Stat.
Another way to prevent leaks is to add insulation, use caulk, spray foam and weather stripping to seal leaks around windows and doors, and in attics and basements. Plug devices with standby power, like TVs and stereos, into a power strip so they can be turned off all at once.
2. Spend less on groceries.
With the cost of virtually everything at the grocery store going up, this is one budget area you can’t afford to ignore. Coupon clipping can help you keep more money in your pocket (a household of four that uses them strategically can save 25% a year), but this is only effective if you use them for items you already use or need.2
Warehouse clubs can be a good source of cost effective purchases, but you have to weigh the benefits against potential negatives: the tendency to eat more because the food is going bad, and the potential for impulse shopping (many stores put electronics and other goodies out front). Did you know that you can save up to $1,200 annually just by cutting half of your unplanned purchases?3 It’s all about making a list – and sticking to it!
3. Trim entertainment costs.
When eating out, skip the drinks, and instead of ordering two entrees, order one appetizer and split a meal. Or dine out during breakfast or lunch, when the entrees are typically cheaper. Movie tickets now top $10, so hit the matinees instead for discounted admission. Join the local theater’s loyalty club for freebies, get discount tickets in the local Entertainment Book, or head to the drive‑in, where tickets are usually cheaper.
4. Improve gas mileage.
The easiest way to spend less on gas is to simply use less of it. Consolidate errands into one trip, or walk to the grocery store instead of driving. Speeding or braking sharply and frequent lane changes cuts fuel economy by 35%.4
5. Shave car insurance.
Most insurers will shave prices for anti‑lock brakes, having an accident‑free record, taking a defensive driving course, or using the same insurer for both auto and home coverage – adding up to as much as 25% off a your premium.5 Shopping around for competitive quotes is a great way to potentially save.
6. Boost your income.
Costs are rising across the board and a few extra dollars each month can go a long way to relieving the financial pressure of a weak economy and higher expenses.
Business opportunities, such as Primerica’s part‑ or full‑time opportunity, are great ways to do something enjoyable while padding the bank account.*
While you can’t control rising costs, changing a few habits can help you hold onto more of your cash!
- *In Canada, the part‑time opportunity is not available in all jurisdictions.
1 Money, July 2008
2 Kiplinger’s, August 2008
3 Money, July 2008
4 Kiplinger’s, August 2008
5 Money, July 2008
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