• Buy bread at bakery thrift shops.
  • Ask your doctor about generic equivalents for your prescription drugs.
  • Cut back on expensive gifts. Shop year round at sales to stock up on holiday and birthday gifts.
  • Discover great “finds” at garage sales—but check items carefully, and stick to your needs.
  • Visit clothing thrift shops for your children’s clothes—and for yourself too, if possible
  • Ask your utility company to perform an energy audit of your home to show you how to reduce energy consumption.
  • Wait until movies arrive at cheaper neighborhood theaters—or rent videos.
  • Set the water heater to the lowest acceptable temperature (around 1400 ).
  • Make use of the free entertainment at public libraries or local parks.
  • Eliminate premium cable and extra phone services.
  • Use public transportation, if available; purchase passes in advance if it will save money.
  • Phone long-distance friends at off-peak hours. Better yet, write them letters.
  • Try the barter system. Exchange babysitting services or trade lawn care for car care.
  • Comparison shop for auto and homeowner’s insurance. Ask how to get discounts.
  • Shop around for credit arrangements. Look for the lowest annual percentage rate (APR).
  • Pack your own lunch. A restaurant lunch (even take-out) can cost four times more than the one you bring from home.
  • Ask the question: How much is the total cost of the item, including all finance charges and fees, over the life of t he contract?
  • Drink water, iced tea or drink mixes instead of expensive soda pop.
  • Consolidate high interest credit cards to one with a lower rate.
  • Don’t shop when hungry. Before you reach the checkout counter, put back those impulse items.
  • Try to pay off at least the amount that you charged this past month, plus some of the previous month’s balance.
  • Avoid costly convenience stores and convenience foods.
  • Avoid the temptation to live a lifestyle that you cannot really afford, by funding it on credit.
  • When food shopping, look for advertised store specials.
  • Use coupons and rebates—if they result in products that are cheaper than store brands.
  • When you find a good sale, stock up on pantry items, household essentials and personal grooming products.