You can write down your budget in a visible place, like on your fridge or front door, and check in once a week in how you are doing. Having a visual representation of your spending can help you keep track of it, and motivate you to meet your savings goals. If you prefer electronic budgeting, tools like Mint. com and other budgeting software connect to your accounts, and allow you to see your budget and spending online.
If you’re in a housing situation where you can leave without paying a penalty, look around for lower rent. Really hardcore? Microhousing is the latest form of cheap living, whether by renting a micro apartment or by buying a tiny house. If you’re really embracing the simple lifestyle long-term, this may be a great saving option for you.
Take showers instead of baths, and be brief. Also make sure your faucets are always completely turned off and you have no leaks to keep from wasting extra water. Always turn off the lights in rooms you are not using. Insulate your windows during the winter using clear plastic or bubble wrap, to stop heat from escaping into the outdoor cold. This will help reduce your electricity bill. [1] X Trustworthy Source U. S. Department of Energy Official site for the U. S. Department of Energy, which provides resources related to energy safety, conservation, and efficiency Go to source If you have internet service on your cell phone, consider getting rid of your cable internet, and doing your computer-based online work at a public library, where internet is free. You can check email and facebook on your phone, but may be able to save by getting rid of cable internet. Many cable and cell phone companies are in intense competition for business, so there are many ways to save on those bills by keeping your eyes and ears open. Pay as you go cell phones tend to be much cheaper than new ones, and by getting rid of cable and just using Netflix or HuluPlus, you can save hundreds each year. In some locations, energy has been deregulated, which gives consumers the opportunity to shop around for the lowest price.
Food Studies scholar Leanne Brown’s book Good and Cheap provides nutritious recipes you can make at home for $4 a day. [2] X Research source Consider using this or a similar cook book to plan low-budget meals in advance. Staple foods like rice, beans, and lentils are really nutritious and inexpensive. You can use these low-cost items to make the bases of your meals, and then add in fresh vegetables, spices, meat, or other items to liven up the meal. If you consistently use these staples to feed yourself, you can save tremendously on your monthly grocery bill. Couponing is another way to save on food or household items. You can look out for coupons for items you were already planning to buy, or you can plan your menu each week around couponed items. Consider buying non-perishables in bulk. Things like toothpaste, paper towels and toilet paper, trash bags, plus dry pasta, oatmeal, and dry rice and beans should be bought in bulk to save you money long-term. [3] X Research source Produce and other things that perish quickly should be purchased in smaller quantities, unless you plan to freeze them (and have room to do so).
You can save when you do eat out by choosing more simple meals or side dishes, eliminating alcoholic beverages from your restaurant purchases, or finding deals like happy hour.
Ask your employer if they offer or support ride-share programs. Many employees now work from home one or more days a week, which saves the cost and time of commuting. Consider asking your employer whether you can work from home full-time or even just occasionally, if your job allows.
See if you qualify for federal housing assistance by using the HUD Website. [6] X Research source Also search for housing assistance in the state where you reside, which may also other assistance. [7] X Research source
You can apply for coverage during open enrollment, which starts November 1 before the year of coverage, and ends on January 31, in the year of coverage. [8] X Research source . (So for example, open enrollment for 2016 is November 1, 2015 — January 31, 2015. ) You can also apply for healthcare assistance outside of the open enrollment period if you have life changes such as a marriage, birth of a child, loss of coverage, have a baby, or move to another area. [9] X Research source
