Week of 1/9/2008

Two Saving Techniques

For those who get paid twice a month, this won't apply. For those who get paid every other week, however, this is a way to really sock away a chunk of change. In 2008, the months of February, May, August and October will bring 3 paychecks. Since most of us base our budgets on a monthly income, this means that in those 4 months you will be flush with money. After all, if you made it through all the other months on only two paychecks, it stands to reason you can make it through the other four with the same amount. Stash the third paycheck away and at the end of October you should have a fully funded emergency fund.

For those to whom this doesn't apply, try this. If you still use checks to pay for groceries, sundries and the like, round up each purchase to the nearest $5 or $10. For example, if the total comes to $53.45, make the check out for $55 or $60. Take the change and, instead of putting it in your wallet, take it home and drop it in a cookie jar or whatever you are using to collect loose change. You probably won't end up with thousands, but you'll be amazed at just how much will accumulate in a year's time.

Week of 1/16/2008

You Deserve A Break Today

There are still 66 days until spring. For most people, it's cold, damp, snowy and otherwise miserable weather. Everybody deserves a break sometimes and that can mean  nothing more than treating yourself to dinner out. Fortunately, you don't have to break the bank to enjoy having someone else cook your dinner for a change.

Purchasing the money-saving dining certificates at Restaurant.com is a great way to treat yourself and still save money. Entertainment should be a part of your monthly budget, and Restaurant.com is a way to make wise spending choices in this budget category. You typically purchase a gift certificate worth $25 for only $10. Most restaurants, however, have a minimum purchase of $35. You still save $15. (Tip is extra.)

For a limited time, there is a 50% off sale at Restaurant.com. Purchase $25.00 Gift Certificates for only $5.00 with savings code DINE.

These dining certificates are also make great gifts, especially for someone in a distant city.

Week of 1/23/2008

Save On Prescription Drugs

If you've never had to take prescription drugs on a regular basis, it's difficult to appreciate the bite it can take out of ones budget. But it doesn't have to do serious damage if you happen to be taking a drug with a generic brand available.

Both Target and Walmart offer generic brand prescritions for just $4 for 30 pills which works out to $0.13 per pill. If you don't have a Target or a Walmart within your shopping area, you can order online. Of course you have to pay shipping charges which may negate your savings, but it's worth making a comparison at Target Pharmacy and Walmart Pharmacy. You'll also need to weigh the shipping charges against the cost of gas to and from your closest Walmart or Target (and the temptation you might have to buy other things you don't really need).

Week of 1/30/2008

Save On Insurance

No, not the typical auto and homeowners insurance (although you can save on these by shopping and comparing). There are a policies out there that you shouldn't even waste time considering.

Cancer Insurance - Low premiums but typically covers only hospital care while most treatments are out-patient.
Car Rentals - Policies run $7 - $15/day, but most auto policies cover rentals, and many premium credit cards to as well.
Flight - These policies are sold based completely on fear. Life and health policies cover you if a plance crashes, and litigation will likely add to settlements.
Mortgage - Your payment will be made if you become disabled or die. Premiums are expensive. Better to buy more term life or disability insurance.
Involuntary Unemployment - If you're laid off, payments are made on credit cards, mortgages and other loans. These plans are expensive and typically only make a limited number of payments. Better to build an emergency fund.

Don't open your wallet for these types of insurance policies and you'll be money ahead.

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