6 Ways to Cut Spending

Feel you are living paycheck to paycheck? If you are like most American's, then you are most likely spending too much of your hard earned income. Even if you have created a budget there are still ways you can decrease your spending and save more money. Use that money to invest, take a vacation or just buy a new sweater!

Stop Eating Out
If you want to save, then spending $20.00 a day on eating out is not going to help. Stop eating out for lunch, dinner or even breakfast. Go to the grocery store. For $20.00 you can make yourself two or even three days worth of meals.

Quit Starbucks...
..or whatever coffee place you use. Brewing coffee at home can be just as delightful. But you like espresso? Guess what? An espresso machine is cheap these days. In fact you can find one for $150.00 that gives you Starbucks quality java without the $4.00 per cup. Start an espresso maker savings at home. Every day you brew a cup of  coffee at the house, place $4.00 in a savings account. If you are like most coffee addicts that $4.00 will equal $150.00 within 30 days.

Plan Grocery Trips
Grocery shopping is a chore, but if you treat it like a strategic game you will save money and have a little fun. Start clipping coupons, looking at store advertisements and shopping around. Don't just buy something because it is on sale. Compare pricing. Ever notice that hamburger tends to always be on sale and always for the same price?

Bank Fees
Bank fees add up. Try to not overdraft your account since some banks can charge up to $50.00 in overdraft and fines per transaction. That means if you overdraft three times you just lost $150! Avoid late charges on bills by paying them on time. If you are going to be late, call the company and let them know. Some companies will waive late fees if you have been a good customer.

Cut Cable and Use Streaming Video
Netflix offers streaming video through a Wii, Xbox or your computer for $10.00 per month and you still get two physical DVD's per month. Cut the Cable bill (which averages over $100.00 in a household) and use these types of streaming services instead.

Be Green
Your utility bills can cost you a hefty fee at the end of the month. Do your part for the environment and your electricity bill. Switch out lightbulbs for energy saving ones and actually turn them off when you are not in the room. Reduce the time you are in the shower and limit baths. Do laundry and other hefty energy duties around the house during low-peak hours such as between the hours of 9am-2pm. Drop the temperature in your house when you are not home and when you are asleep -- you can always buy a heavier comforter with the savings.