The economy is shaky, and families are looking for ways to save, while still enjoying a good quality of life. Read on for some practical ways to maximize your available income, and to make every penny count.
Budgeting Tips for Families
Make a Grocery Budget
Don't just make a grocery budget, but stick to it. This may mean using a cash envelope system. Ask around about where the consistent low prices can be found. If you live in close proximity to multiple grocery stores, shop the highly publicized loss leaders each week. These will most likely be boldly marketed on the front of the weekly store circulars.
Change Your Entertainment Habits
The cost associated with eating out, and frequenting entertainment venues adds up quickly. Consider having a weekly family game night. Host a potluck, where various families bring food to share. Borrow movies from the library for free. Borrow books from the library to read for your own pleasure, or start a book club that rotates to the homes of various book loving friends.
Buy Used
Especially with kid items, it just makes sense to buy used. There are wonderful consignment stores, thrift stores, and online deals to be found.
Declutter
You will be surprised about the many benefits associated with de-cluttering your home. You will most likely feel much more relaxed in the sanctuary of your home. You might even be surprised to find long forgotten about cash, or gift cards. In addition, you can donate unwanted items to a charity and receive a tax receipt, or you can sell your unwanted items online or at a garage sale. Less clutter, and more money is a win win situation.
Practice Green Living
Turning off the lights when you leave a room will save energy, and save money on your monthly utility bills. Lower the heat when you go to bed at night, and when you will be out of the home for an extended period of time. Wash your clothes in cold water, and line dry them.
It is easy and even fun to think of additional ways to make every penny count. Hold weekly or monthly family meetings and think of new ways to save. Enjoy the satisfaction of knowing that you are treating your money wisely.
~~~~~~~
written by: Brooke Chaplan
~~~~~~~
image courtesy of Gualberto107, FreeDigitalPhotos.net
