ways to save money on bills?
hi my mom and i really need to save money on bills. we keep having to take out loans from my grandparents, which my mom is ashamed of. can any one give me tips on ways to save money around the house for groceries, energy bills, electric bills, etc. thanks:]
Public Comments
- To save money, first you should create a reasonable budget for the month. Look at your past month's purchases and determine where can you cut costs. Write down a limit on what you will spend on each type of item and stick to it. To save money on groceries, I write a list of exactly what I need and don't deviate from the list. The only exception to this rule is when something is on sale that you use frequently. If it's something that won't spoil, buy extra when it's on sale. Also, never go to the store hungry because that can make you buy food that's not good for your body or for your wallet. To save on energy bills, be sure to always turn lights off in the rooms you're not using, adjust the thermostat when you're not home during the day so it doesn't run as much, and check the insulation around your doors to make sure there aren't any huge drafts. Hope this helps!
- the fuel / electric company often have programs to help with a portion of the bill especially in the winter. tell your mom not to feel bad, with the value of the dollar going down the cost of many services are skyrocketing, including food costs. meanwhile not many are getting an equivalent cost of living raise. mabey you can visit the local salvation army or food bank, these places offer free groceries with out questions.
- live by the 10/80/10 rule. 10% to savings, 80% living budget, 10% to church thithes and offerings. Reduce on your cell phone usage, cable (reduce your channel options), put on an extra sweater while at home, turn off lights in empty rooms, don' t eat out as much. Plan your errands smartly. If the house you live in is too expensive, its time to move. Housing should be 25-33% max of your living expense. If the car she drives is too expensive she needs to sell it and get something more affordable. Don't splurge just because, think do you really need it. 10% saved could double on interest alone in a few years without touching it. It works for you. She needs to also pay back your grandparents. Maybe you can get a little job also to help a bit.
- To save $ on food, buy in bulk, avoid pre-prepared foods, don't eat in restaurants. Use the weekly newspaper grocery ads to plan your shopping. Always shop with a list and don't grocery shop when you're hungry. Plan a week's menus ahead of time and use them as a buying guide. To save $ on electricity, replace your incandescent bulbs where possible with fluorescent bulbs (these bulbs cost more initially but last longer and burn far less electricity). You may be able to get a rebate for purchasing these bulbs so check around. Unplug appliances that are "on" all the time such as TVs & VCRs when you're not using them. When you purchase new appliances, pay attention to the Energy Star rating (if you're using an old refrigerator, you're paying way too much to cool your food). To save on heating fuel, weatherstrip and insulate where needed, and install a programmable thermostat. If you have a forced-air furnace, replace the filter regularly. Have your furnace and air conditioner inspected regularly.
- u can use energy saving lightbulbs and stick to a grocery list. (as well as washing full loads in dishwashers or only using the sink for a few dishes. use tide coldwater for washing ect. if applicable)
