Saving

[yonksgirl]

Any ideas on how to save money? I thought that when I started my job we would have more money to save but it seems like there is someone out to get me! Everytime I turn around there is a new bill! :scratch:

[MeatBall]

From what I've read over time, you seem to have your act together!
As a former financial planner, the first step I would have prospective clients do is inventory all expenses and prioritize!
ie
Monthly fixed (rent, mortgage, taxes, transportation, insurance)
Debt - mortgage, student loans = good debt and pay off last (tax benefits of interest)
Needed debt - car payment, furniture
"Bad debt" - credit cards = pay off first! Use home equity line to pay off if possible! (home equity interest is tax deductible)
Healthcare
Groceries
Entertainment
Spending money
Savings - retirement accounts, "goal accounts"

Once you figure out that magic number - subtract it from your combined net incomes. Hopefully you have something left.
If a negative - you now have an understanding of where your money goes.
Things to adjust:
If you have a mortgage - what type? ie fixed, variable...when did you get it? It may make sense to refinance! I spoke to a close friend the other day and he did not think it would make a difference...but he is saving a few hundred dollars a month by making that call!
Rent - if you have been there over two years and have been a good tenant, you should ask your landlord for a rent reduction...most areas rents are down as interest rates have allowed stable renters to buy! Cheaper for him to lower than run the risk of a vacant and questionable new tenant!
Next: take a hard look at where your money goes....entertainment? Eating out? Car payment? Consolidate credit cards to one lower? Cable, internet, phone bills seem high?
I know this is a lot to tackle in one sitting, but I have seen amazing results from people who just weren't aware of their spending habits.
Also, I know this may not be the money saving ideas you are looking for (ie I am a huge bulk warehouse fan BJ's) but it may help someone else.... :graduate:

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[yonksgirl]

Thanks Meatball for the info! I printed it out and will be doing that tonight! No matter how much it hurts! LOL