Saving yourself thousands of dollars a year is actually much easier than you think. Here is a list of things you can do to save yourself some money and put that money to good use paying off your mortgage.

• Plan your meals and grocery needs for the week instead of shopping three times a week and buying without a list.
• Don’t buy prepared foods at the grocery. Double up on your recipes so you can freeze leftovers and eat the next day.
• Avoid shopping when you’re hungry. This will cause you to buy more food than you actually need to.
• Clip coupons. This alone could save you hundreds of dollars a year.
• Shop with a small calculator. This will allow you to add up how much you have spent as you shop. Another way, is to set a $$ figure for spending and as the check out person to subtotal.
• Check your receipts just in case the cashier made a mistake.
• Avoid purchasing non-grocery items such as shampoo at a grocery store. These items generally have a much higher markup at grocery stores.
• Send in rebates but the best thing is to buy the items that give you an instant rebate and let you use your discount cards. I have one for Kroger and Food lion.
• Instead of eating out, try packing your lunch.
• Dine out on weekdays. Prices at some restaurants jump on weekends.
• Try eating Chinese, Thai, Indian, Mexican or Italian. These types of restaurants often offer you much more food for your money and you can bring leftovers home.
• Dine early. Many restaurants offer dinner specials before 6.
• Alcohol is expensive when dining out. Enjoy a glass of wine at home.
• Try drinking one less coffee a day or week. Also, a regular cup of Starbucks is only $1.67. Avoid all those fancy drinks full of calories.
• Pick up a movie from the library instead of renting one.
• If you do go to the theatre, Go to a matinee or a dollar theatre.
• Don’t buy food or drinks from the concession stand. If you do, then get one large popcorn and share with the whole family.
• Ask for a better rate on your magazine subscriptions. Especially if the price increases.
• Go for a walk in the park, ride a bike, play frisbee or go hiking instead of bowling or golfing. These activities won’t cost you a dime.
• Need a haircut or want a massage? Go to a local beauty or massage school. They charge less than half price.
• Do your own housework and yard work. Get the whole family involved.
• Wash your own car at home. You will save a few dollars every week.
• Carpool to work. Many cities have lanes specifically for carpoolers.
• Ask if your employer about discounts on child-care.
• If your medical coverage isn’t needed, ask your employer if they’re willing to bump up your salary instead of offering you coverage.
• Also, don’t forget to floss and brush regularly and wash hands before eating.
Doctors and dentists are not cheap.

These little steps can help you save yourself thousands of dollars every year and work towards paying off your home or debts. You’ll be amazed and remember you can start a good habit in 21 days. After that it’s a piece of cake.

Jay A. Kumar

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