By Sylvia Lim CGA, CFP
Five areas to help you save $100 a month!
You can do it. A bit of spending awareness can help you save money painlessly each month. Here are ideas to help you get started and stretch your budget.
Dining out:
- Most families eat out at least twice a week, some as many as four or five times! Cut back your dining out habit by only once a month and save yourself at least $30.
- Substitute one ‘dining out’ meal with a ‘pick up main course’ meal. This helps you save on the price of the bread and butter, salads and beverages. This can easily save you $15.
Groceries:
- Buy ‘in season’ fruits and vegetables. Be flexible in your meal planning and take advantage of weekly store specials. This can save you at least $10.
- Buy in bulk your basic grocery essentials. For example, buy four liters of milk instead of one liter at a time. Freeze the extras until you need it and save your money. This can easily save you $15.
Banking and credit card matters:
- Track your ATM and debit card transactions. These habits may be costly conveniences. Curb their uses or shop for a good package plan can save you $10.
- Average bank credit card charges 18.5% in interest rate. Switch to a ‘low rate’ card can easily help you save $8 if your average credit card balance is $1,000. Save more by paying the balance off.
Personal care:
- Instead of expensive facial cleansers, use powdered milk! This can save you $7.
- Have your haircut every 6 weeks instead of every 4. This can save you $7.
Household products:
- Make your own all purpose cleaner. Mix together 1/4c baking soda, 1c ammonia, ½c vinegar and 1 gallon of warm water. This helps save $3.
- Don’t buy carpet deodorant. Sprinkle baking soda on carpet instead. Wait 15 minutes and vacuum. This will save you $3.
Find more saving and finance tips in Sylvia’s books–visit the Books page.