How to Save Money

saving money

1. Step 1 set limits

   LIMITS - Before you go shopping set a limit on the amount of money you can afford to spend. How many times have you went shopping to get one or two things but came home with several things that you weren't even going for?

2. Step 2 make a list

   LISTS - Make a list of what you need and what it will cost and stick to your list.

3. Step 3 discount stores

   DISCOUNT STORES - Try finding what you need at discount stores. If you need household items such as cleaning supplies, try the Dollar Tree, Family Dollar, Dollar General, or any other discount stores for clothing or whatever your needs might be. You might just be surprised what you can save.

4. Step 4 yard and garage sales

   YARD AND GARAGE SALES - You won't find everything you need at these places but sometimes you can find some great deals on home decorations, clothes, tools, etc.

5. Step 5 use coupons

   COUPONS - Clip coupons. Watch the paper or search the internet and be on the lookout for coupons on the items you use.

6. Step 6 open a savings account

   SAVINGS ACCOUNT - Open a savings account and add money to it each time you get paid. I know this can be hard to do, but decide on an amount you can afford and commit to making a deposit into a savings account just like you're paying a bill, except you'll be paying yourself.

7. Step 7 car pool

   CAR POOL - If you work with someone that lives near you or have a couple of people that are going to the same general area, ride together and share the cost of gas. It will save wear and tear on the vehicles and gas money.

8. Step 8 take advantage of sales

   SALES - Watch the t. v., newspaper, or internet for sales that clothing stores run for a certain percentage off and take advantage. Some grocery stores have double coupon days or discount cards where you can save money as well.

9. Step 9 buy generic when you can

   BUY GENERIC - I know some generic items aren't as good as the name brand stuff, but sometimes there's little to no difference, so when possible, why not buy generic and save a dollar or two?

10. Step 10 buy in bulk

    BULK - When you have certain items that you use a lot of, buy them in bulk. These items can range from certain grocery items if you have a big family or household items like paper towels or toilet paper. Buy in bulk when you can and you will save money and not have to buy the items as often.

11. Step 11 cut back on utilities at home

    UTILITIES/HOME EXPENSES - Try cutting back on the utility costs at home. Use energy efficient light bulbs and turn the lights off when you leave a room. Shop around for better deals on home or car insurance. Cut out any extras that you don't really need or use like premium channels on cable or satellite. Hang your clothes out on the line and only wash and dry clothes when you have a full load.