Resources – Cut Costs & Save

Saving money is an important part of financial planning, as it allows you to build a financial cushion, achieve your financial goals, and prepare for unexpected expenses. However, it can be challenging to save money and cut back on spending, especially if you are used to a certain lifestyle. In this article, we will provide you with 20 simple ways you can cut back on unnecessary spending in your day-to-day life.

1. Cook at Home

Cooking at home is a great way to save money on food expenses. It is often cheaper to buy ingredients and cook meals at home than to dine out or order in.

2. Make Your Own Coffee

If you regularly buy coffee from coffee shops, bringing your own coffee can help you save money. Consider investing in a reusable coffee cup to take with you on the go

3. Cancel Subscriptions

Canceling subscriptions like streaming services or magazines you don’t use or need can help you save money on monthly expenses. Take a look at your subscriptions and determine which ones you can cut back on.

4. Buy Generic

Buying generic or store-brand items can help you save money on groceries and other essentials. They are often just as good as name-brand items and cost less.

5. Use Cashback Apps

Cashback apps can help you save money on purchases you would make anyway. Check out apps like Ibotta, Rakuten, or Honey to start earning cashback on your purchases.

6. Cut Back on Dining Out

Dining out is often more expensive than cooking at home. Consider cutting back on how often you dine out and instead try cooking meals at home.

7. Utilize Public Transportation

If you live in an area with public transportation, consider using it instead of driving to save money on gas and car maintenance expenses. Alternatively you can also ride a bike or carpool with a friend or coworker.

8. Buy in Bulk

Buying items in bulk can help you save money on groceries and other essentials. Just make sure you’ll actually use the items before they expire.

9. Utilize Rewards Programs

Using a credit card with rewards can help you earn cashback or points on your purchases. Just make sure to pay off your balance in full each month to avoid interest charges.

10. Use Coupons

Using coupons can help you save money on groceries, household items, and other essentials. Check out coupon websites like Coupons.com or RetailMeNot for deals and discounts.

11. Upcycle and Vintage

Shopping at thrift stores or on online re-sale marketplaces can help you save money on clothing and other household items. You can often find items in good condition for a fraction of the cost of buying new especially when it comes to high priced items such as furniture or electronics; Just make sure you inspect the item carefully before purchasing.

12. Reduce Energy Usage

Reducing your energy consumption can help you save money on utility bills. Turn off lights and electronics when not in use, use energy-efficient light bulbs, and adjust your thermostat to save money on heating and cooling costs.

13. Shop Around For Savings

Shopping around for deals can help you save money on monthly expenses. One example is with insurance: get quotes from multiple providers and compare rates to find the best deal.

14. DIY Repairs

Instead of hiring a professional, consider DIY home or car repairs to save money on maintenance expenses. Just make sure you have the necessary skills and tools before attempting a repair.

15. Reusable Water Bottles

Instead of buying bottled water, consider using a water filter to save money on drinks. A water filter can help you get clean, safe drinking water for a fraction of the cost of bottled water.

16. Avoid Convenience Stores

Convenience stores often charge more for items than grocery stores or big-box retailers. Avoid shopping at convenience stores to save money on everyday essentials.

17. Cut back on Alcohol

Drinking less alcohol can help you save money on going out and buying drinks. Consider cutting back on alcohol or switching to cheaper options like beer or house wine.

18. Find Free Entertainment

There are many free entertainment options, such as visiting parks, attending community events, or taking advantage of free trials for streaming services. You can also try visiting your local public library for free books, movies and CDs. Look for free options to save

19. Negotiate Bills

Don’t be afraid to negotiate bills like cable or internet. Call your provider and ask if there are any promotions or discounts available. You may be able to save money by switching to a cheaper plan or provider.

20. Repair instead of Replacing

Repair instead of replacing: Instead of replacing broken items, consider repairing them to save money. Simple repairs like fixing a tear in a piece of clothing or repairing a leaky faucet can be done for a fraction of the cost of buying a new item. Look for tutorials online or ask for help from friends or family to learn how to do simple repairs yourself.