Money Saving Tips: other - billeater.com

Saving Money: Life is Tough - So Get Tougher

Guest Blogger — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 17:10:46 +0000

If you are like most people in the world and struggling financially it can sometimes feel like standing on the bottom of a lake looking up. Stress levels mount with each new setback or unexpected bill until you can't help but wonder if you'll ever see your way clear again. You get nailed with late fee after late fee even after trying to deal with the people you owe, but they just keep coming.

Read the rest...

At Home or Overseas, Stores Suffering through the Recession

Guest Blogger — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 15:00:00 +0000

The last 12 months have been a difficult time for all businesses, but Britain's high street (high end to those of us on this side of the pond) stores have had it worse than most. During 2011, job losses, pay cuts, and rising household expenses hit even the best-off families, and meant that the amount of disposable income flowing towards high street stores fell dramatically.Read the rest...

The ABC's of Saving Money on Text Books

Guest Blogger — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 20:25:23 +0000

Buying and selling textbooks on a budget can seem like rocket science, whether or not that’s what you’re studying. As with any personal finance comparison, you must evaluate your options and then get the best value. Luckily, in this case, you get to sell your books back at the end of your studies.Read the rest...

Re-evaluate: Have You Turned into a Cheapskate?

Jessica Bosari — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 13:00:00 +0000

Learning to live within your means is an important part of being financially responsible, but it can be taken too far. When you go from using money wisely to letting money run your life, you miss all of the things you were saving money for in the first place. When being frugal leaves you sitting at home counting coupons every night, you might be sacrificing too much for a few extra pennies here and there.Read the rest...

10 Frugal Holiday Gift-Giving Tips

Jessica Bosari — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 13:00:00 +0000

The holiday season can be extremely stressful for those who are on a tight budget. Your list is a mile long, but your finances aren't. As you prepare to celebrate, check out these tips for more frugal gift giving this year. You'll decrease your stress, and everyone on your list will be thrilled with your thoughtfulness.Read the rest...

6 Great Holiday Gifts for Under $30

Guest Blogger — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 01:00:00 +0000

Sometimes it feels like there’s no end to the number of people we must buy holiday gifts for. Family members are one thing, but if your dentist’s assistant gives you a present during your winter visit, you might be rolling your eyes at the thought of reciprocation. Fortunately, here is a list of some unique gift ideas for under $30.Read the rest...

Find Money Saving Bargains on Infant Essentials

Guest Blogger — Sat, 17 Dec 2011 23:00:00 +0000

Because college costs will soar above $100,000 per year by the time your newborn applies to the Ivy League college of his or her choice, you must economize now. You are fortunate that you have a diverse array of tools and resources to promote your savings initiative. Naturally, the internet has made shopping mom-friendly, allowing you to visit your favorite merchants during those rare times you actually have peace and quiet. As always, though, common sense and maternal instinct will guide you to the best items at the most reasonable prices. Experienced moms counsel…Read the rest...

Eight Tiny Reindeer, Eight Ways to Save

Guest Blogger — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 15:00:00 +0000

As a single mom during an economic slump, I have to get creative when it comes to saving money at holiday time. Here are eight ways to save:

1. Don't Buy Wrapping Paper

This year, I put family photos into the scanner and made a collage of our smiling faces. Then I taped the sheets together so it'll double as holiday wrap. In years past, I used jazzy pages from fashion magazines and newspaper funnies. It's greener than buying wrapping paper, more creative, cheaper, and more fun.Read the rest...

5 Money Saving Tips for Cyber Monday

Jessica Bosari — Sun, 27 Nov 2011 23:22:13 +0000

I don’t know about you, but for myself, I avoid shopping on Black Friday. I am not a fan of long lines, crowed stores and noise. So, Black Friday is not a day I want to go out and shop. Cyber Monday is a far better option for me. I can shop from the comfort of my own home. I don’t have to wait in line to pick up items, and I don’t have to wait in long lines to purchase the items I want. All I have to do to shop on Cyber Monday is login to the store websites where I want to purchase items, pick out my items, and electronically check out.Read the rest...

The Psychology of Spending Money: Infographic

billeater — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 13:48:32 +0000

Click the infographic to see it larger...Read the rest...

Group Buying – Can It Save You Money?

Guest Blogger — Fri, 18 Nov 2011 15:57:31 +0000

Group buying hit the mainstream in 2008, with the launch of Groupon, a U.S. based group buying site. While the concept isn't new, it has been much-lauded by the press as the way forward for those who want to save money and get great deals. Let's look at how group buying works, and ask whether it's really such a money saving miracle.Read the rest...

Feeling Charitable? Size Them Up First

Jessica Bosari — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 06:00:00 +0000

With the help of technology like texting and PayPal, the increasing ease with which , can receive donations creates expectations among donors who want their money funneled directly to people in need. And there are plenty of assumptions about the efficiency of that process.Read the rest...

9 Expenses to Target on Your

Jessica Bosari — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 06:00:00 +0000

Even though consumer spending is down overall, we are paying more for the things we buy. The prices of some goods and services have soared, based on information from Time Magazine's Special Money Issue: What We Spend, published last month. The following family expenses have hit families the hardest, making them important targets in your cost-cutting hunt.Read the rest...

You Don't Have to Be a Business Owner to Save Like One

Tim Iandoli — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 06:00:00 +0000

Business networking as an entrepreneur can save you time, energy and money, but the keys to all successful networking starts at home. Small businesses and large corporations all use the same basic methods to develop business relationships with other companies. They use networking to save money in several very important ways no matter what industry or what size the business is.Read the rest...

7 Tips to Cutting Costs at College

Guest Blogger — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0000

Small ideas that make a big difference in your banking account.

Take the bus: No matter how expensive the bus system is in your part of the world, it is almost certainly less expensive than getting a car. Although some people complain that taking the bus takes considerably more time than driving, it is often time that can be used to work on homework, read a book, or study for a test. Bus riders don't have to worry about where to park or about paying for routine maintenance.

Find your textbooks online: Textbooks are increasingly becoming available in digital forms. These versions are often much cheaper than their weightier, paper counterparts.Read the rest...

Bargain Hunting: Should You Really Do It?

Guest Blogger — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 05:00:00 +0000

We’re all looking for good deals. We all want to save a buck or two and make sure that what we’re getting is the best value for our money. The best way? Go bargain hunting!Read the rest...

Buying a Stores’ membership Card Can Save You Money – How to Tell When It's Worthwhile

Jessica Bosari — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 05:00:00 +0000

Buying a stores' membership card can save you money and other cool benefits, but it's not always a good deal. Registering for membership cards with companies that you do business with regularly can have personal, business and financial benefits. It also is a way that you can establish credit or build a history that will lead to future membership privileges.Read the rest...

5 Things You WON'T Need in the Fall

Guest Blogger — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 05:00:00 +0000

The first leaf has fallen. The temperature has dropped twenty degrees in the last week. You have busted out your cardigans. Fall has arrived. Everyone is getting excited for the holidays that are coming up and with that comes extremely unnecessary purchases. So this is your warning. Although you might see all these great things on sale, ask yourself, “Do I REALLY need this?” Only after you answer that question can you then buy whatever it is you want to. Read the rest...

6 Ways to Ease Your Fears of Job Loss

Jessica Bosari — Fri, 07 Oct 2011 05:00:00 +0000

There is no question; today's job market is a nerve-wracking place. Even people who are still employed have valid concerns about layoffs, salary cuts, and benefit reductions. When the worst happens and you lose a job in this economy, it can take longer than usual to find a new job to replace your salary. It makes sense to think about ways to protect yourself from the potential financial and emotional strain of losing your job. If you find yourself in this unfortunate position, it will be important to reduce the negative impact and build toward your future as soon as possible.Read the rest...

Money-Saving Tips for Motorcycle Owners

Jessica Bosari — Tue, 04 Oct 2011 05:00:00 +0000

If you're like most people, you're probably trying to save money in every way possible. Since the state of our economy is relatively bad and likely to get worse, saving money in all facets of life is especially important. Motorcycle ownership is no exception. Here's how you can enjoy using your bike while cutting the unnecessary expenses many bikers thoughtlessly incur.Read the rest...

5 Affordable Classic Gifts for Women

Guest Blogger — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 16:51:52 +0000

Everyone knows diamonds are a girl's best friend. That phrase still rings true today. The best gifts a woman can receive are a reflection of her unique beauty and love. Women want to feel appreciated, adored, and respected. Accomplishing that on a budget isn't easy, but it can be done.Read the rest...

4 Steps to Choosing the Right Career

Guest Blogger — Wed, 28 Sep 2011 23:42:16 +0000

Whether you’re a soon-to-be graduate deciding on a job path, or someone looking to change occupations, choosing a new career isn’t easy. Finding a new career is a long process that includes figuring out what you want, researching the available options and gaining the necessary education and training.

Here are some factors to consider when deciding on a career:Read the rest...

7 Carpet Cleaning Scams to Avoid

Guest Blogger — Thu, 29 Sep 2011 00:00:00 +0000

Inviting a carpet cleaning service into your home can be nerve-wracking. You have to trust that the service will be professional and take good care of your carpets and belongings, even though you have never met the people who will be working in your house. To make things worse, hundreds of carpet cleaning scams are perpetrated on a daily basis by people who do not intend to clean your carpets. Here are some ways to look out for common carpet cleaning scams.Read the rest...

5 Extra Money Ideas for College Students

Guest Blogger — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 05:00:00 +0000

Are you a college student in desperate need of supplemental income? Balancing a job with your course-work is never easy. The trick is to find low-key, low-stress jobs that not only pay well, but also offer flexibility. You might be surprised at the number of people willing to employ struggling college students, as most individuals will commend you for taking on a job along with attending school.Read the rest...

Rags Beat Paper Towels for Cost Savings

Mallory Hall — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 05:00:00 +0000

If you are among the millions of families looking to save money in small ways, consider using rags or cloths instead of paper towels. Consider how often you go through paper towels throughout the course of the day – wiping up messy faces, mopping spills from food and drinks, cleaning mirrors and kitchen counters, and the list goes on. While paper towels are appropriate in certain situations like food preparation, you can save money and help the environment by keeping a stash of old rags or t-shirts in your kitchen instead. Simply wash them once a week and reuse them repeatedly.Read the rest...

3 Places to Find Cheap but Great Furniture

Tim Iandoli — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 02:26:48 +0000

Cheap and great usually only go side by side when gushing about the great discount you got on an item, making the ultimate cost really cheap. When acquiring new furniture (or at least new to you), you can get some really great pieces for cheap if you learn some simple techniques.Read the rest...

Three Important Reasons You Should Pay for Online Dating

Jessica Bosari — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 00:33:58 +0000

In the world of cyber dating, an important question often arises: why pay for online dating services when you can get them free? Certainly there are a wide variety of paid online sites you can join to help you meet other singles. But free online dating sites exist, too. To the casual observer, it might seem like the free sites would be the best way to go. If you're serious about meeting someone special, however, you may want to consider investing in a paid dating site for these three important reasons:Read the rest...

Ace that Job Interview Using the Right Body Language

Guest Blogger — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 15:01:26 +0000

Job interviews are enough to make anyone nervous. By the time you make it in front of the interview panel, your stomach is probably going to be in knots. You may have prepared answers to some common interview questions, so that you feel like you can perform confidently during the interview. Remember though, that you need to think about the kind of signals you are giving out subconsciously as well. Body language is important and thinking about this as well as your verbal answers will help you to come across well in a face to face interview.Read the rest...

How to Save Money on Postage

Mallory Hall — Thu, 01 Sep 2011 05:00:00 +0000

Are you on a mission to limit your household expenses? If so, you’ve probably discovered a myriad of savings techniques and are well on your way to having a rainy-day nest egg. Congratulations! You may be able to save even more, however, if you haven’t considered the necessary, ever-growing expense of postage. Here are some tips for smart and resourceful ways to save money on your postage.Read the rest...

Save Money At Home with Hair Color

Mallory Hall — Wed, 31 Aug 2011 05:00:00 +0000

A recent survey conducted by USA Today concluded that 50% of the 1,031 women polled admitted to coloring their hair on a regular basis. On average, women who pay for professional hair coloring services spend between $65 and $230 each visit. At an average of four visits per year, salon services can cost $265 to $920 total for the whole year.

On the other hand, some women purchase hair coloring kits from their local pharmacies or grocery stores that cost between $7 and $20, depending on the brand and the color. These store-bought kits are easy, inexpensive ways to change your look without shelling out major money for professional services. However, are these savings worth risking an awful hair color if you do it incorrectly?Read the rest...

Saving Money on Home Security Systems

Tim Iandoli — Mon, 29 Aug 2011 15:04:42 +0000

Home security systems can seem confusing and pricey, so if you're in the market for one, don't worry. They make sense once you break it down. After all, what's a home security system other than a bunch of parts plugged into an electricity outlet? It isn't that complicated. If someone else can do it, you can do it too.Read the rest...

The Fine Art of eBay Sniping

Mallory Hall — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 05:00:00 +0000

It’s a familiar scenario for eBay users: you anxiously await the end of an auction on an item you have been waiting five years to find. You count down the minutes until you see “This auction has ended,” with your name listed as the highest bidder. Suddenly, out of nowhere, merely seconds before the auction ends, an unknown bidder has bumped you out, causing you to lose the auction in a last-minute frustration.Read the rest...

8 Natural Beauty Products You Can Make at Home

Jessica Bosari — Wed, 10 Aug 2011 12:53:55 +0000

Artificial chemicals did not exist during ancient times. Women in ancient times didn't go to the local drug store. Instead, they shopped freely in the nature store, mixing berries and other ingredients to make their skin shine. Today, you can have the same experience at home by creating your own natural beauty products.

It is important for women to feel good about themselves. Much of our self-esteem is tied to the cosmetics we use. Beauty industry advertisements deepen our anxieties about how we look, and it works. We try every product we can find, rarely noticing the untested or known toxic chemicals in them. Relying heavily on manufactured cosmetics only supports these harmful advertisements while emptying our wallets from hard-earned cash and making cosmetic companies wealthier.Read the rest...

Appliances: Repair or Replace?

Jessica Bosari — Fri, 22 Jul 2011 12:55:13 +0000

Perhaps one of the greatest Christmas Movies, “The Christmas Story”, shows what happens when we go too far in our desires to save money by avoiding replacing a broken applianceg. In the movie, the main character’s father is a “renowned furnace fighter”, “Indy Pit Crew Worker” and a number of other self-proclaimed titles all because he would rather spend his days battling a broken down furnace than pay to have it replaced. Or, instead of replacing the old tires on the Olds, drive around on ones so bald they’d make Telly Savalas look like Sasquatch.Read the rest...

How to Navigate Estate Sales

Tim Iandoli — Mon, 18 Jul 2011 23:48:28 +0000

If you learn to navigate estate sales, you will be able to get some great deals, maybe even a “one of a kind item” for a deep discount. Think of an estate sale as the next level above a yard sale. In many yard sales’ the owners of the home are trying to sell unwanted items or even “junk” that they no longer want or can no longer use.Read the rest...

12 Ways to Capitalize on Your Next Annual Review

Guest Blogger — Mon, 11 Jul 2011 05:00:00 +0000

The annual review process can be very intimating for many employees, and subsequently they feel helpless to deal with it effectively. This doesn’t have to be the case. In fact, an employee armed with the right knowledge and information can not only deal effectively with the process, but use it as a stepping stone for greater compensation, promotion, and opportunity.Read the rest...

Cleaning Strategies for Your First College Apartment

Guest Blogger — Thu, 30 Jun 2011 23:59:41 +0000

Are multiple strategies for cleaning really necessary? Unfortunately, for most of us the answer is yes. If you already you have a sparkling toilet bowl, spices arranged alphabetically in the cupboard and fresh sheets on the bed, you may have a rare trait of perpetual cleanliness. You are to be both congratulated and envied, but this is an article for the rest of us...those of us who lack a completely clear coffee table and have a least one laundry item that escaped from the hamper.Read the rest...

How to Get the Most from Rebates

Jessica Bosari — Tue, 28 Jun 2011 00:03:13 +0000

Rebates are a method that manufacturers and retailers use to encourage consumers to buy their products. Offered for a wide range of items, save shoppers money and increase their sales simultaneously. Unfortunately, people sometimes find that the requirements for the rebate are difficult to fulfill, and they often end up being disappointed because what they were expecting never materialized.Read the rest...

Bad with Money? Blame Your Brain

Jessica Bosari — Tue, 21 Jun 2011 02:53:28 +0000

It can sometimes be difficult to decide the value of a certain piece of merchandise and whether purchasing it is truly worth the cost. Scientists at the University of Pennsylvania have now determined the area of the brain that is responsible for making decisions about value. Tests utilizing functional magnetic imaging have identified the ventromedial frontal cortex as one of the most active areas when an individual is carrying out these tasks and therefore this area of the brain can be looked at as the area responsible for decisions made based on value.Read the rest...

The Tablet Craze: What Should You Look for in a Tablet?

Jessica Bosari — Fri, 17 Jun 2011 22:01:35 +0000

Tablets are ultra-light, ultra portable fun machines. Not quite powerful enough for everyday computing, they make excellent supplements to a home PC. Most tablets come with 1G memory, but features can vary greatly from one maker to the next. The following review of the tablet market should help you decide which tablet is right for you, if you decide to buy one at all.Whether tablets are merely a fad or will evolved to meet the power of a PC with the portability of a tablet remains to be seen.Read the rest...

Why Aren't You Saving Money Like This? Five Ways to Save

Heather Hollingsworth — Thu, 16 Jun 2011 05:00:00 +0000

If you have access to the internet at home or through your smart phone, you could be enjoying a completely new type of savings. Online memberships and coupon aggregate sites are popping up all over the internet. These sites make it easy to find the coupons or discounts that you will really use. Some of them will send the savings information directly to your social networking account. Others allow you to cash in on savings because you have agreed to join their site as a member. The nice thing about finding high tech deals is that the coupons and discounts can be personalized so you only receive information about products that actually interest you. You use the discounts more often because they apply to your life.Read the rest...

iPad2 or Not To? Is it Worth the High Price Tag?

Tim Iandoli — Wed, 15 Jun 2011 05:00:00 +0000

Many consumers have seen a recent flood of advertisements for Tablets, such as Apple’s iPad2 and the Motorola Xoom. The question is “Are they worth the price tag that comes with them?” A consumer will pay for quality and functionality, but what they may not understand is the possible benefits these tablets can have even over the portable laptop or convenient smartphone.Read the rest...

Creative Mulching: Five Free Mulches for Your Garden

Heather Hollingsworth — Tue, 14 Jun 2011 15:22:53 +0000

The benefits of mulching your vegetable garden are nearly endless. Organic mulches provide nutrients for the soil while they help keep necessary moisture from evaporating into the air. Using an average of two inches of mulch through the middle and late summer months can reduce your need for watering by more than half. The natural fertilizers in organic mulch help promote plant growth without the use of chemical fertilizers. A layer of mulch will protect the soil against erosion, and it will draw feeder roots up toward the rich surface where they will provide more nutrition for the plants.Read the rest...

Scheduled Maintenance for Your Homeowner's Insurance

Jessica Bosari — Fri, 10 Jun 2011 12:24:06 +0000

Most people don't give their homeowner's insurance much thought after they sign the paperwork for their mortgage. It is important to understand that the purpose of homeowner's insurance is to protect you if anything unexpected ever happened to your home. If you never research the shifting insurance value of your home, you could end up underinsured when you need to file a claim. Several factors can lead to a home's value rising or falling over the years. The best way to avoid an unpleasant surprise is to keep track of your home's value over the long term. Schedule periodic research into the changing value of your home, and plan to make insurance adjustments based on new assessments.Read the rest...

Slightly Imperfect, Totally Affordable!

Jessica Bosari — Fri, 03 Jun 2011 14:52:26 +0000

If you're not a stickler for perfection, you could save a ton of cash on some items discounted because of imperfections in their packaging. Manufacturers can't sell these items for full price because of the defective packages, even though the products themselves are in good condition. If you know where to look, you can bring home slightly imperfect items and spend a third of the money on your groceries, appliances, or furniture. You only have to be willing to overlook the exterior and appreciate the product for its intended purpose.Read the rest...

Save Real Estate Commissions by Selling Your Home Yourself

Heather Hollingsworth — Mon, 30 May 2011 23:34:59 +0000

Many of the things that a licensed realtor handles during the sale of a home are things that you could do on your own and save a ton of money. The realtor's job is to market your home and help you prepare the home for sale. When your home receives an offer, the realtor will work with the potential buyers to negotiate all of the final details of the sale. If you put in some time and research, you can handle all of these tasks on your own without paying a realtor's high fees. The only area you may need professional help with might be the negotiations at the end of the process, but there are resources that are less expensive than hiring a realtor for the entire sales process.Read the rest...

Top Ten Sites for Job Search

Jessica Bosari — Fri, 27 May 2011 16:19:14 +0000

The internet is a great place to begin your job search. You can upload your resume to many databases so that employers can find you while you are working to find them. Some of these sites are specific to certain types of work, while others provide job listings for several different career paths.Read the rest...

Seven Apps to Make Money Using Your Smart Phone

Heather Hollingsworth — Thu, 26 May 2011 01:49:20 +0000

You can put your iPhone or Android phone to work for you with the easy-to-use apps that pay you money when you perform simple tasks. This new form of advertising offers amounts that range from pennies-per-action to dollar amounts for people who are willing to download apps or take photos of certain objects and upload them to a remote server. The advertiser hopes that you will take the photo of the product and then drop the product in your shopping cart. Some of the apps involve more work, but they all offer real cash rewards.Read the rest...

Renting out? Do it Right.

Cheryl Johnson — Mon, 16 May 2011 05:00:00 +0000

Interested in renting out a room in your home or rental property? In this economy when houses are increasingly difficult to sell, renting may provide a lucrative alternative. Others look at renting as easy money. Just spruce up a place, do a little maintenance and watch the money come rolling in. The truth is that it can be a dream or it can be your worst nightmare. If you have good renters that pay on time and take care of the property, renting can be a good source of income. However, like any worthwhile venture, it’s not a get-rich-scheme and requires advance planning to increase your chances of success.Read the rest...

Five Least Stressful Healthcare Jobs

Guest Blogger — Fri, 29 Apr 2011 23:33:53 +0000

Want a job that helps others, pays well and doesn't stress you out? Healthcare is an excellent field to look for work in a challenging economy. Career Cast ranked the top 10 least stressful white collar jobs for 2011 and 5 health care jobs were on the list. Some of the stress factors considered in the ranking were income opportunity, competitiveness, travel, hazardous work environment, and if lives are at risk.Read the rest...

Four Ways to Save on Apartment Living

Guest Blogger — Fri, 29 Apr 2011 15:49:04 +0000

People choose to live in apartments for various reasons. Young adults just out of high school, or college usually view apartment living as a convenient option that allows them to explore living solo, while starting new careers or going to college. Others may not have the resources or credit necessary to purchase permanent dwellings; and there are those who do not want to commit to mortgages, taxes and the maintenance responsibilities of home ownership. Whatever the reason one chooses to live in an apartment, most everyone will agree that cost does factor into choosing an apartment or other rental property.Read the rest...

Four Reasons You Should Give Up Your Stock Investing Fantasies

Guest Blogger — Tue, 26 Apr 2011 16:15:30 +0000

Picture this. You study up on investing strategies, do your homework, unearth some hot stock tips and then invest a decent chunk of money. Next thing you know, you’ve made a killing and can retire to live the high life. It’s a nice thought. Even if you don’t have such delusions of grandeur, you’d probably like to think that with a little effort and education, you could actively manage your portfolio and outpace market returns. How hard could it be? Think again. Here are three reasons you should give up your stock investing fantasies.Read the rest...

Three Professionals to Consult Before You Start that Home Improvement Project

Heather Hollingsworth — Tue, 19 Apr 2011 05:00:00 +0000

It is important to do some research before you begin a large home improvement project. Three specialists in particular can be the most useful for ensuring your construction project will be practical, affordable, and increase the value of your home. speaking to these professionals can make the difference between spending wisely or foolishly on your home.Read the rest...

9 Ways to Save on Beauty and Skin Care

Guest Blogger — Wed, 13 Apr 2011 05:00:00 +0000

You may have a bathroom full of beauty products that are everyday essentials or prefer to splash out just a little with your skin care. After all, we all have our little indulgences. But whether or not beauty is a trial or your special treat, there is plenty you can do to get the most out of your purchases. Here are 9 tips to help you get great value for money from your skin care:

Read the rest...

How to Pick a Good Mattress Based on the Facts

Heather Hollingsworth — Mon, 11 Apr 2011 05:00:00 +0000

Note from the editor: I recently had to buy a mattress for my son's twin bed. I found one at IKEA for $99. Plus, a zip-off washable cover was included. In my search, I couldn't find a mattress anywhere else for under $300. They may just have the best deal going.

Buying a mattress can be overwhelming these days. Mattress companies release dozens of different models every year, costing anywhere from hundreds to thousands of dollars each. The only real way to tell if a mattress is a good choice for you is to lie down on the mattress to see if you like it. Otherwise, most mattresses are really pretty much the same, no matter how much they cost.Read the rest...

Need it? Want it? Five Tips to Help You Be Honest with Yourself

Heather Hollingsworth — Fri, 08 Apr 2011 16:18:02 +0000

There is a fine line between what you need and what you want sometimes. Do you need cable service? Or can you get by with a less expensive option? Is it necessary to purchase a laptop when you do most of your work on your desktop that is in great shape? Separating what is a need from what is a want can be painful, but it can help you stay on budget so that you can afford the things that are really important to you in the long run.Read the rest...

Roofing Repairs 101: Three Cost-Effective Solutions

Guest Blogger — Tue, 05 Apr 2011 23:32:04 +0000

Until someone figures out a way to repeal the law of gravity, roofs are always going to be high- priority items. And as we all know, high priority very often also means high maintenance. But with so many demands on our wallets these days, the last thing we want to think about is the prospect of shelling out big bucks for roof repairs. Yet we all know the day will come when our roof starts giving us not-so-gentle hints that it's about time to do something. Sometimes the clues take the form of moisture stains on our interior walls. Other times we may start seeing sunlight beams poking through the shingles. In extreme cases, a hurricane might cause some damage that makes our roof scream out for mercy. Very often, none of these things happen but instead we begin to notice a steady increase in our energy bills for no apparent reason.Read the rest...

ThreeTech Gaffs that Can Get You Fired!

Jessica Bosari — Tue, 29 Mar 2011 22:01:40 +0000

Although most people do not give much thought to the subject, it seems that bad tech habits are doing much more than just leaving a bad impression...these days, they can get you fired. The range of career ending missteps involving technology is wide and varied, with some seeming like common sense, and others, well, not so much.Read the rest...

Personal Finance Writer Helps In Japan

Jessica Bosari — Thu, 24 Mar 2011 05:00:00 +0000

You can help too. Visit jasonkelly.com/helpjapan/.

I first met Jason Kelly last year when I reviewed his radical personal finance book, "Financially Stupid People are Everywhere, Don't be One of Them." Both the book and Jason left lasting impressions on me. Jason's kindness and patience in helping me work out my opinion of the ideas expressed in the book were above what I expected from any author. Jason lives in Japan, so when the earthquake disaster hit, he was the first person on my mind. I recently checked up on him to see how he was doing and found out he is once again going above and beyond, this time, helping the Japanese find comfort in the disaster. While most foreigners abandoned Japan during the crisis, Jason dug in his heels and went to work helping. He is now delivering clean, fresh socks to the thousands whose feet are exposed in the cold climate.Read the rest...

Thinking About Working Overseas? Read this First!

Heather Hollingsworth — Mon, 28 Feb 2011 06:00:00 +0000

Working overseas might seem like a chance to live a perpetual vacation lifestyle. The truth is, daily existence requires the same discipline and work ethic no matter what country you are in. That said, there are some cultural differences in foreign countries that can make life seem simpler to someone who grew up in a Western culture. Expatriate workers enjoy a higher standard of living due to tax regulations and the value of the United States dollar compared to foreign currency.Read the rest...

Five Ways to Accessorize on the Cheap

Heather Hollingsworth — Mon, 21 Feb 2011 06:00:00 +0000

Your accessories can sometimes be the most important part of your personal look. Unfortunately, the most popular accessories can quickly run right out of your price range. Even if you can afford to pay top dollar, it makes sense to try to find the best deals on accessory items that you will probably want to change or replace in the next year or two. You don't have to sacrifice taste when you choose to spend less on accessories. All you need to do is think a little more creatively.Read the rest...

Warning Signs: Don't Rent That Apartment!

Heather Hollingsworth — Tue, 15 Feb 2011 22:43:17 +0000

When shopping for an apartment to rent, you need to make sure you do your research thoroughly. Although most rental units are legal and safe, there are many that are not up to code. Illegal rentals may be less expensive than legal options, but they can easily become deadly for you and your family. Here are some things to watch for during your apartment search.Read the rest...

Not Much Value in KitchenAid Attachments

Jessica Bosari — Mon, 07 Feb 2011 23:50:24 +0000

I got to looking at the myriad attachments available for my KitchenAid mixer and started to wonder if there was any significant savings buying these accessories instead of individual appliances. The mixer has accessories for noodle making, juicing, sausage stuffing, slicing, and milling. As it turns out, you are better off buying the individual appliances...but not always.Read the rest...

Putting Your Money into Schooling is the Best Investment You Can Make

Jessica Bosari — Thu, 03 Feb 2011 21:27:10 +0000

A recent study from the John J. Heldrich Center for Workforce Development at Rutgers shows that even the Americans who are lucky enough to find work are not faring so well. As it turns out, many of them are taking pay cuts to switch careers and find a job. The study reports that about 33% of laid-off workers found new full time employment and 41% of those had to switch careers to find a job. Read the rest...

CCC Personal Finance Guest Blogging Contest

Jessica Bosari — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 13:12:33 +0000

You folks liked our post, Money Saving Techniques for the Truly Hard Core so much that we decided to enter it in a personal finance blog contest hosted by some of our northern friends. Billeater is not affiliated with the sponsors of the event, who are shown below. Thanks!

Read the rest...

Buy Next Year’s Christmas Trappings Now

Heather Hollingsworth — Wed, 05 Jan 2011 14:28:16 +0000

Where to Look for the Best Clearance Deals

When Christmas is over it can be a little disheartening to pack everything away for another year. You can brighten up the process a little bit and save yourself some money by shopping for next year's new decorations right now. Since you're still working on putting everything away, you could go out and take advantage of some of the deep discounts that retailers offer for items you would have had to pay top dollar for a few weeks ago. Bring your new goodies home and pack them with your old ones. When you open everything up next year, you'll have a stack of fresh decorations to play with as well as your family favorites. Plus, you’ll have one less errand to run during next year’s busiest season.Read the rest...

Boost Savings by Organizing Cheaply

Heather Hollingsworth — Mon, 03 Jan 2011 21:59:05 +0000

The costs of being disorganized are not always easy to see all at once, but they really add up over time. If your shoes are all scattered on the floor of your closet or under your bed, you may not realize you already own that perfect pair of brown dress shoes that you need. If you were well organized, you could just glance at your shelf of shoes and know exactly what you own.Read the rest...

Didn't Get that High-Tech Gadget in Your Stocking? It's not too Late!

Heather Hollingsworth — Tue, 28 Dec 2010 23:47:13 +0000

The list of new technology gadgets was excellent this Christmas season. From gaming systems to digital cameras to iPads, the best gifts this year came in smaller packages. With such a long list of possibilities, Santa probably had a tough time filling out everyone's technology toy list. The good news is that many retailers are offering those high-demand gadgets at incredible prices now that the Christmas shopping season has ended. Santa might wish he had waited to take advantage of some of the technology deals that are available online and in person at electronics stores through the end of December and well into January.Read the rest...

Pure Platinum? Pure Drivel! What to Look for When Buying Platinum

Jessica Bosari — Mon, 27 Dec 2010 18:49:55 +0000

Purchasing platinum jewelry can be an investment that lasts a lifetime. This luxurious metal is known for its luster and durability. In recent years, manufacturers have begun to blend base metals into platinum jewelry to help keep the jewelry more affordable for consumers. Platinum jewelry has always been blended with other materials, but these recent pieces contain higher levels of metals like copper or cobalt than traditional platinum pieces used to contain. The US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has recently released some guidelines that require jewelry shops to mark the exact platinum content in each piece so that the customer is always aware of the purity of the jewelry.Read the rest...

Ten Cheap and Cheerful Holiday Gift Ideas for Coworkers

Fletcher Martin — Mon, 13 Dec 2010 21:12:11 +0000

It’s that time of year again! The time money tends to spill out of your wallet and bank accounts like water from a faucet. Christmas time is often one of the happiest times of the year for most people; however, it can also be one of the most difficult times financially. You want to let people know you care, but you can only afford so much tangible love.Read the rest...

How to Handle Mixed Financial Messages

Fletcher Martin — Thu, 09 Dec 2010 20:52:57 +0000

We live in a society that snatches up new ideas and runs with them, without necessarily taking the time to assess the value of them. The unfortunate truth is that not every idea or opinion you or anyone else has is a great one or even halfway acceptable. This is part of the reason we hear so many mixed messages when it comes to financial advice.Read the rest...

Top Misleading Sales Tactics

Fletcher Martin — Thu, 02 Dec 2010 21:48:19 +0000

Salesman will do anything and everything to get a sale. If they have to cluck like a chicken for five minutes to get you to buy whatever they are peddling, they will. You have probably run into a misleading sales ad before. You are told one thing promising cheap prices only to have the final total to ring up double or even triple what you originally thought. Context and word placement are everything. The following tactics are used much more often than you would think to get you, the unsuspecting customer, to spend more you planned.Read the rest...

Back to school for better pay - should you go online or brick and mortar?

Fletcher Martin — Wed, 24 Nov 2010 13:49:44 +0000

The economy is in a rut, people everywhere are trying to bring in more income anyway they possibly can. This could mean liquidating assets, taking on multiple part time jobs, or simply cutting coupons. However, a good number of people do not wish to sell their belongings, don’t have a lot of time on their hands for even more work, and cutting coupons is just not enough for most people. This leaves the prevailing idea that a good number of people have chosen to pursue; going back to school.Read the rest...

How to be Sure you are Paid What You are Worth

Fletcher Martin — Mon, 22 Nov 2010 15:16:12 +0000

Have you ever run into a coworker that does the same job as you, yet makes substantially more money? This can turn a job or career you were originally happy with into a job you struggle to get out of bed for. The nagging thought that you are worth less to the company than Billy Joe can turn those with the best work ethics into the worst employees imaginable. The simple way to avoid a conflict that could cost you your job and way of life is to make sure you are being paid what you are worth. How does one do this?Read the rest...

Social Media Could be the Best Way to Find a Job

Jessica Bosari — Wed, 17 Nov 2010 21:49:21 +0000

Celebrities have long used social media as a marketing platform to connect with millions of fans, and companies are now following suit, but for another purpose. Many small, medium, and large companies have social media accounts and are using them to find employees. Individuals looking for work can use this trend to their advantage by using social media sites as a way to find a job.Read the rest...

Can Installing a Garbage Disposal in your Kitchen Sink Save Money?

Jessica Bosari — Fri, 12 Nov 2010 19:55:39 +0000

When people think of home improvements that can save money, installing a garbage disposal may be the one of the last things to cross their minds. For those who pay a fee for every bag taken to the curb, it can be a great way to save money. Saving on the cost of trash bags and trashcans can also put a little extra money in your pocket. Garbage disposals have environmental benefits by reducing the amount of trash sent to landfills. Installing a garbage disposal is a great idea, but there are some things to consider before making the decision to shop for one.Read the rest...

How Taking Notes Saves You Money

billeater — Mon, 08 Nov 2010 14:58:32 +0000

Taking notes is a part of everyday life. Grocery lists, supply, and to do lists are compiled everyday as reminders. Keeping a small, divided notebook or pad with you always may provide many money saving opportunities.

Read the rest...

16 Ways to Do Well By Doing Good

Jessica Bosari — Fri, 15 Oct 2010 12:21:07 +0000

In most instances, people find as much pleasure in giving as the recipient obtains from receiving. Though monetary donations go a long way to help many fine charities, many people caught in the turbulence of the economy understandably cannot afford to part with finances. But there are countless other ways people can provide donations. Being charitable does not necessarily include giving money.Read the rest...

How to Save Money on a New Apartment

dlawwill — Thu, 30 Sep 2010 01:38:20 +0000

Finding a new apartment can be incredibly tiring as well as expensive. However, there are certain precautions that you can take to avoid paying incredibly high prices for an apartment. Learn what you can do to save money on a new apartment.

Read the rest...

What Every Consumer Should Know About Penny Auctions

Jessica Bosari — Wed, 08 Sep 2010 02:08:30 +0000

The concept of a penny auction is both simple and brilliant. It’s not like a normal auction where bidders compete to purchase an item by arbitrarily raising the price, resulting in higher sale prices for the auctioneer. Traditional auctions let buyers find rare items. They’re not about saving money. But penny auctions are just the opposite.

Read the rest...

Taking the Plunge Into Dumpster Diving: Do it Right, Get Free Stuff

Guest Blogger — Fri, 27 Aug 2010 18:16:39 +0000

Ewww! You might think. Dumpster diving? Climbing into a big box full of people’s trash is not for everyone, but that’s not what dumpster divers really do anyway. By using some common sense and keeping your wits about you, you’ll find used but useful items, some of which may even be valuable. It's an environmentally sustainable practice that saves money and reduces landfill waste. Here are some tips for embarking on your treasure hunt:Read the rest...

Be a Frugalista: Billeater's Fall Fashion Guide

Jessica Bosari — Fri, 13 Aug 2010 15:03:16 +0000

Read the rest...

For working professionals, the relaxed summer dress code is coming to an end. It’s time to start looking for suits, dresses and other professional clothing. This might be your first year as a frugalista, or maybe it’s just time to update the wardrobe. When it comes to career clothing, you need to dress for the job you want, not the job you have.

But looking sharp doesn’t have to cut a hole in your wallet. You can get the clothes you like and project the image you seek without spending a fortune. It’s not so hard to be frugal and have nice clothes at the same time.

You're Only as Beautiful as Your Budget: Get More Beauty for Your Buck

Jessica Bosari — Mon, 09 Aug 2010 19:26:47 +0000

Every woman wants that put-together look found at professional spas, salons, and in upscale makeup stores. No one, though, wants the extra wrinkles that come with the stress of paying for it all. You've lost enough beauty sleep over the recession. Now, let the sluggish economy provide you with ample opportunities to save money as beauty companies work harder for your loyalty. As an extra bonus, the recession means that saving is in and Grandma's tips are making a well-deserved comeback.
Read the rest...

5 Cheap Home Decorating Ideas

Jessica Bosari — Mon, 02 Aug 2010 14:57:01 +0000

Whether decorating a first home, or altering the appearance and character of an already existing home, many people hope to do so with as much imagination and with as little monetary investment as possible. Some may need to economize out of necessity, while others just enjoy the challenge of decorating creatively without breaking the budget. In addition, of course, there are those who are concerned about the environmental impact over-consumerism has on our planet and try to decorate with that in mind.Read the rest...

Seven Ways to Avoid Online Scams and Rip-Offs

Jessica Bosari — Sat, 31 Jul 2010 00:13:32 +0000

While some helpful tools are making it easier to avoid scams online, some of us still fall prey to deals that look sweet but turn out sour. The con man, flimflam man, rip-off artist, scammer and cheat have always been with us. The ways of scamming may change, but the intent is the same. They want your money.

Coupon moms and deal seekers may be especially vulnerable because we do find incredible deals from time to time that look too good to be true, but turn out pretty darn fabulous. So how can we avoid scams and rip-offs while still finding incredible bargains and offers? By arming ourselves with knowledge.Read the rest...

10 Uses for Silly Bandz® and Rubber Bands That Save You Money

Jessica Bosari — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 13:44:28 +0000

Rubber bands, often acquired for free when they come wrapped around produce or newspapers, can be found in many households just hanging around in a drawer or wrapped around a doorknob waiting for an opportunity for a second life. These days, there are probably 100 or more Silly Bandz® hanging around your kids room. Any day now, they'll be "so last week." Put that forgotten fad to work in your home with some creative ways to re-use rubber bands and save some money in the process.Read the rest...

The Cost of Commuting...Should You Drive or Ride?

Jessica Bosari — Thu, 22 Jul 2010 13:42:41 +0000

In today's economy everyone wants to save money. One of the the biggest budget entries for some is the cost of commuting. The good jobs are in the city, but the affordable living remains in the suburbs. That leaves many of us in a position with three choices, none of which seem like a good idea. We can drive an hour or more in highway traffic, drive to the commuter parking lot and take public transportation, or share a ride with someone. When it comes right down to actual dollars and cents there is a best choice, but many of us find the mst affordable option so unpleasant, we'd rather spend the extra money.

Read the rest...

Five Good Reasons to Dip Into Your Emergency Fund

Jessica Bosari — Mon, 19 Jul 2010 20:29:57 +0000

Hopefully you have a fund containing enough to cover your regular living expenses for at least three months. Such emergency funds have never been more important than now. If you haven’t yet been forced to dip into that account, you’re probably one of those contemplating it after a layoff or as the bills get harder to pay every month. At what point is your situation an emergency? When should you throw in the towel and accept that you need to use some of that emergency money you have been stashing away?Read the rest...

Save $100 or More on Home Networking with this Simple Tutorial

Jessica Bosari — Thu, 15 Jul 2010 18:38:51 +0000

A decent print server will run you between $40 and $180. If you decided to replace your printer with a wireless one, you’re looking at about $100. An external hard drive can run between $80 and $150. By using your old Windows PC, you get the capability of these kinds of expensive hardware for free. This tutorial assumes you have a wireless router in your home and high speed Internet.

Read the rest...

Hate budgets? How to Save Money Anyway

Jessica Bosari — Sun, 27 Jun 2010 19:26:33 +0000

Read the rest...

The word ‘budget’ can sometimes be intimidating. It means that you will have to watch what you are spending and account for where your money goes. Many people will say that drawing up a budget can be just as difficult as following it. "Budget" may feel like a four letter word, but it doesn't have to.

Tips for Managing Unhealthy Spending Sprees

Jessica Bosari — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 16:43:33 +0000

Those with ADD and Bipolarism are particularly susceptible to spending sprees during high-energy episodes, when the drive of the personality trait overcomes the logic of the calmer mind. But unhealthy spending sprees can happen to any of us, especially during times of high stress. It often starts benignly. You purchase something you have been holding off from buying. Then, you decide it’s time to fulfill another desire if you can find it on sale. Before you know it your shopping around and buying much more than you set out to. Sometimes it can run into hundreds or even thousands.

So what can you do to prevent a spending spree or at least curb one that has begun? Here are a few tips to help you manage the spending spree monster.

Read the rest...

Unclaimed Money Could be Waiting for You

Jessica Bosari — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 17:53:03 +0000

Remember the day you were laid off and it seemed that nothing was going right and then you went out to buy some milk and doughnuts with the little money you had left and as you walked into the store, there on the ground was a twenty-dollar bill? It was like a sign, that things were not so bad. It’s hard to forget that great feeling of having found some money. Here is a chance to re-capture that feeling, as there is a good chance that there is some unclaimed money, hundreds or even perhaps thousands of dollars with your name as the owner of an unclaimed property.Read the rest...

Have You Been Throwing Away $10,000 a Year?

Jessica Bosari — Thu, 20 May 2010 21:50:41 +0000

Even non-smokers appreciate the difficulty of quitting smoking. Just seeing otherwise logical people continue to smoke despite the health risk makes the problem obvious. I mean, how is it that people who use seatbelts, eat healthy and take other measures to protect their health continue to smoke? Quitting must be very difficult indeed.

Consider today’s post a public service message. If the fear of a cancer-ridden death or emphysema-restricted life isn’t enough, maybe a look at how much smoking is really costing you can do the trick. You probably haven’t even considered many of these smoking related expenses.Read the rest...

Tips for Negotiating a Better Deal

Tue, 18 May 2010 21:27:18 +0000

Do you know somebody who can negotiate a great deal on something regardless of what they are buying or where they are buying it? I have a family member who will negotiate the prices at department stores and grocery stores. She negotiated and received a great deal on patio furniture, canned peaches and more! Negotiating a bargain does not have to be as difficult as it seems. In some cases, it may even be fairly simple. Here are some things to keep in mind to help you negotiate a better price with confidence.Read the rest...

Six Ways You Might Be Wasting Money

Fri, 30 Apr 2010 16:55:34 +0000

Spending your money wisely seems like an easy thing to do. But even as careful as you are with your paychecks, you may be wasting money in ways that you do not even realize. Even the smartest people often spend their money on wasteful ambitions or things that they simply do not need to be spending money on. This is often the result of laziness, lack of information or just being too busy to notice. Here are six ways that many people are wasting their money on. Are you spending your money on one of these?Read the rest...

Will Doing It Yourself Save You Money?

billeater — Wed, 14 Apr 2010 14:53:47 +0000

An average home repairman will charge $25 to $50 for a service call, and that’s before he even takes a look at your problem. However, many repairs are easy to make, even if you are a repair-challenged sort of guy. Big box home repair stores such as Home Depot or Lowe’s often give free clinics on installing tile, hanging wallpaper and more. Television programs on HGTV and DIY (Do It Yourself) or PBS’s "This Old House" can provide a wealth of information when it comes to do-it-yourself work. Or, log on to the Internet. Do a Google search of "fixing a leaky faucet" and you’ll find 207,000 hits, including helpful and sometimes amusing videos.

Below is a listing of normal household jobs and repairs, and how to consider whether to attempt a DIY job or pay to have someone to do it.Read the rest...

Free money for bills ?

billeater — Sun, 28 Mar 2010 16:53:28 +0000

Searching for Free money for bills or Free money to pay bills? There is a little truth behind websites and tv commercials that pitch the idea of Government Grants providing money, but it's not as great as they make it out to be, and there's no need to buy anything to find it.

Information on government grants or other sources of money is pretty readily accessible. If you found this article by searching Google, you are probably hoping to hear the pitch from a gentleman named Matthew Lesko. He's famous for selling a book titled "Free Money to Pay Your Bills", where he claims that there are "billions in hidden dollars" to be found.Read the rest...

Unlikely way to save: The Garbage

Sun, 21 Mar 2010 20:48:04 +0000

When you’re trying to cut down on expenses, every dollar matters. And frankly, among all the bills that you have to pay every month, some of them are just downright irritating. Like your trash collection bill, for instance. The very idea that you have to pay someone to haul your trash away can seem like a ridiculous way to spend your hard-earned dollar.

But with a little moxy, creativity, discipline, or just plain physical work, perhaps you can cut or at least reduce this expense in your annual budget.

Negotiate

Nearly every industry has been impacted by the lagging economy over the last two years, trash collection being no exception. As more people have sold homes and moved into apartments and in with relatives—evidenced by the number of empty houses on the market—private collection services have lost customers. Read the rest...

Use Twitter to Save Money: Deals, Coupons, Tips

Jessica Bosari — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 15:51:51 +0000

Most of us think of Twitter as a way to make money, either by helping us find a job or to market a product or service. Turns out, Twitter can save you money too! But the twitter-verse is vast. There’s more to it than just hopping on the site and tweeting. Here’s how you can use Twitter to find great deals of stuff you need to buy anyway.

Why is Twitter So Good for Saving Money?

Twitter is free. Free to you and free to companies that sell goods. This means they can afford to offer discounts through Twitter that would be much less through conventional advertising or coupons.Read the rest...

Four Ways to Save Money on your PC

Jessica Bosari — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 15:07:08 +0000

It’s amazing how a product can go from being a novelty to a household necessity in just 15 years. But that’s just what has happened with the home computer. The public Internet was launched in 1995 and today, few people can get by without access by computer. If you find yourself in the unfortunate position of needing to purchase a new computer, there is some good news. The cost of computers has come down significantly due to larger-scale production. By making some smart choices, you can get an affordable computer that will last longer and cost less to run. Read the rest...

Save Money Shopping At Thrift Stores

debbiedragon — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 21:13:53 +0000

Thrift stores have been around long before the recession. The difference today is more people are finding the value of buying items from a thrift store. As more families come to terms with the fact they have been living beyond their means for years, thrift stores are seeing a surge in popularity among consumers who previously passed them by without a backward glance. Some consumers are recognizing the value of saving money where they can, so they can spend more money where it is necessary. With more people showing an interest in becoming frugal, more thrift stores are popping up to meet the demand. Here we look at several ways to incorporate thrift store shopping in your life, which will keep more money in your pocket.
Read the rest...

Do InkJet Refills Really Save Money?

Jessica Bosari — Sun, 21 Feb 2010 13:52:54 +0000

You have probably thought of using ink jet refills to save money on printing, but you’re not sure if they work. Or maybe you tried them and it was a disaster. Perhaps you haven’t tried it because it seems too messy. If you tried them unsuccessfully in the past, or if you are thinking about using ink jet refills to save money, here’s some information that will help you get the most out of ink jet refills. Read the rest...

When is Old Better than New ?

Jessica Bosari — Sun, 21 Feb 2010 14:02:23 +0000

There was a time when engineers did their best to make products last as long as possible. The goal was to create the highest possible quality for the best price. But in the 1930s, the idea of designing products for a limited life span began to take hold. By the 1950s, it was common practice. Today, many of us find that buying old is better than buying new.

This idea of limiting the lifespan of products by design is known as planned obsolescence. While the idea has led to huge growth in sales and profits for manufacturers, it has done enormous harm to the consumer. Some engineers saw this philosophy as a potential problem.Read the rest...

Why Should I Save Money?

debbiedragon — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 16:37:11 +0000

Saving money is an important skill to prepare you for your financial success. Saving money is not always easy but it is possible. It is kind of like losing weight. We all know what we need to do, eat less and exercise more, or in the case of saving, spend less and make more money.

While saving money is important task everyone should master, it seems to be one of the most difficult things for people to do. It may take a significant commitment and budgetary responsibility, but having a bank account with savings in it can reap financial and psychological rewards.Read the rest...

How NOT to save money on Valentine's Day

Jessica Bosari — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 19:12:13 +0000

In tough times, we have to cut expenses everywhere, but there is a wrong way to do it; in fact, there are several. Here are some lessons for those of you who may be trying too hard to find affordable alternatives on Valentine’s Day.

For Women, It’s Not about Sex

Of course, many men would not mind getting sexy gifts for Valentine’s Day, but guys, this is NOT what the ladies want from you on Valentine’s Day. Don’t go after those clearance negligees left over from Christmas...Read the rest...

Save Money On Pet Care

debbiedragon — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 15:25:29 +0000

As a pet owner you are responsible for providing the necessary care for the pets in your charge. This goes beyond simply providing food and shelter, and in some cases can be quite an expensive undertaking. Certain pets require minimal care while others look to you for their very survival.
With this in mind it is important for pet owners to understand that when it comes to the health and safety of your pet, money cannot be an issue. Unfortunately this is not the case with many families who are struggling to stay afloat in these tough economic times. How do you save money on your pet care costs when you are already working with a limited budget? Here we look at ways to reduce or lower pet care costs to ensure your pets receive the care needed to be happy and healthy.Read the rest...

How To Save Money At the Post Office

debbiedragon — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 18:41:36 +0000

Whether you only visit the post office to mail out bills and letters to friends or you go to ship countless packages from you eBay business, you really can save some dough when you go. It’s no surprise that postage rates are on the rise and will likely continue going up since the cost of fuel and transportation in general is going up all the time. But you don’t have to spend as much as usual if you do a little homework.
Here are some tips that will help save you time and money at the post office:
Weigh Your Own StuffRead the rest...

Secrets of Sneaky Savers

Jessica Bosari — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 03:33:57 +0000

Self-discipline is tough. You can stick to a plan for three weeks, make one mistake on a sudden impulse and wipe out all of your hard work in one fell stroke. This cycle of discipline and failure can cause many to give up trying to save money. But if you think of that part of you that slips up as a separate person that needs to be fooled into saving, you can manage even the most stubborn spending streak. You may recognize some of these tips.Read the rest...

The Catch-22 of Working from Home to Save Money

Jessica Bosari — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 03:46:29 +0000

It's easy to buy into the fantasy of working from home to save money. Think of the daycare savings alone! And then there’s gasoline, eating out for lunch and office clothing. Before actually setting out to work from home, you should understand that most people working from home make less money than their office-based colleagues do. Employers know that working from home is desirable to many employees.Read the rest...

Are you too frugal? Crossing the line...

Jessica Bosari — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 14:27:39 +0000

Do you think of yourself as frugal, spartan, parsimonious, penny-wise, prudent, economical and thrifty? Do you suspect others describe you instead as penny-pinching, scrimping, stingy, tight, cheap or miserly? At what point does saving money become a bad thing? Read the rest...

Tips to Reduce Spending on Campus

debbiedragon — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 17:42:57 +0000

Heading for College or University? There are new responsibilities and decisions to consider. Adapting to the rigors of university campus can leave your bank account a bit thin. Here are a few tips to help you to save money while attending college.

Know What You Spend
Before heading out the door with your new found sense of independence, have a look at your spending habits. Although you can’t spend what you don’t have it is nice to know where your money is going. Besides putting all your spare change into a jar there are other ways to save money while at University.Read the rest...

Good Neighbor Next Door: Buy a Home for Half Price

Fri, 08 Jan 2010 13:09:10 +0000

Here’s a deal for school teachers, police officers, and firefighters. The U.S. Department of Housing & Development (HUD) has a program that offers 50 percent off the list price of certain houses as long as you live there for at least three years. It’s called the Good Neighbor Next Door (GNND) program, and it’s offered all over the United States.

The purpose of the Good Neighbor program is to strengthen communities by encouraging employed law enforcement officers, teachers, firefighters, and emergency medical technicians to live in the community. Read the rest...

Budgeting by Expense to Income Ratio

Jessica Bosari — Sat, 02 Jan 2010 16:26:59 +0000

When you don’t know where your money is going, you’re in the dark about the best ways you can save money. While anytime is a good time to start a budget, many of us are more successful following through when we start the new year with a fresh budget and spending plan.

Further, knowing what percentage, or "ratio" of your budget you should be spending on each major category will help you make changes.

A budget can help you save money for retirement, a vacation, to pay off credit card debt or to make a major purchase. If you have never set up a budget before, this guide will help you on your way.
Read the rest...

Are you really Saving Money?

Jessica Bosari — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 16:01:49 +0000

We all want to save money, but some of us get a little caught up in theory without looking at the true savings of our shopping behavior. Using coupons, buying online where you can get free shipping and choosing stores with simple return policies are all good ideas, but there’s more to it than that.

Remember that sales and other promotions are not charitable events to put more money in your pocket. They are intended to drum up sales for the stores. This is why you need to be careful when you go after discounts. Here are some tips to help realize true savings from special promotions and store policies.

Groceries Read the rest...

More Budget Bride Tips

billeater — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 22:19:49 +0000

The engagement cards are just rolling in and already you have a stack of payments due for your wedding. Hosting a fabulous wedding is only as expensive as you make it, so don’t let the day of your dreams turn into years of debt. There are many ways to save money on your wedding, and with some creativity and a few good friends along the way, you can save thousands and have an amazing celebration.

Selecting the Right Venue

First, select a venue that will give you a great package deal. Many hotels will roll multi-course meals and open bar into a per person price and generally do not charge a fee for the ballroom.Read the rest...

Save money on Christmas gifts

Tyra — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 12:15:55 +0000

It's officially the holiday season! Sure, the spirit of giving is still in the air, but citizens from coast to coast are on a noticeably smaller budget this year, and may have to scale back on everything from holiday meals and entertainment to gifts and decor. Fortunately, a great gift is all about making it personable, thoughtful, creative and unique and definitely NOT about price. It is one hundred percent possible to have a wonderful holiday and give great gifts without spending a fortune. We put together a list of some thoughtful and frugal gift ideas for everybody on your list this year!

Read the rest...

Save Money This Holiday Shopping Season

debbiedragon — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 15:44:37 +0000

Today is Black Friday, the official kick-off of the 2009 holiday shopping season. On one hand, consumers appear to be willing to spend a bit< more money than the past two holiday seasons, however most people remain cautiously optimistic in light of a recovering economy. If you are venturing out (or staying in) to do some holiday shopping, the following tips can help you get the perfect gifts without going broke in the process.Read the rest...

Tips For Managing Your Money After Debt

debbiedragon — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 01:10:30 +0000

The journey to debt free living is both long and difficult but there is a light at the end of the tunnel. After successfully eliminating your debt you can begin to enjoy the freedom of living a life without the constant fear and frustration that comes hand-in-hand with debt. Without the burden of debt you can begin working toward other financial goals that were unattainable when all of your income was tied up with debt payments. Consumers who are "used" to being in debt often do not know what to do with their money once the debt is finally eliminated from their lives. Here are a few money management tips for those who have recently eliminated debt from their lives.Read the rest...

Technology Keeps You Safe and Keeps You At Risk

debbiedragon — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 22:42:14 +0000

Internet crooks have gotten sophisticated in various methods used to access and steal consumers identity. A few of the sophisticated ones are “phishing”, “DNSpoisoning”, “screen grabbing” and “key-logging”. Believe it or not, they use malware software such as Zeus and Sinowal that actually intrude (undetected) in your computer, to steal your identity. The good news is that new computer protection software can now detect such malicious attacks and remove or block their access entirely. Ensure that your computer’s anti-virus definition software is up to date.
Read the rest...

Save money on books, magazines and reading material

Tyra — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 03:04:00 +0000

Who doesn't like to come home after a hard day at work and cuddle up in a lazy chair with your favorite book, this week's newspaper, or the latest edition of a favorite magazine? Why not save some more of your hard-earned cash when buying books, magazines and newspapers? Heres how... Read the rest...

Can I afford college for my kids?

billeater — Mon, 07 Sep 2009 15:16:40 +0000

It's a question many parents aren't prepared to answer. Hopefully, though, the answer is yes, but you'll have to do some planning. Unless you are wealthy beyond your means, you cannot expect to wait for years and then suddenly have the money to pay for college when your kids are ready. The right thing to do is to start as soon as possible, even if you can only start small.
Read the rest...

16 ways to save money on laundry day

Tyra — Sat, 15 Aug 2009 12:35:35 +0000

Having to do laundry is something that everybody has in common. More than most other chores, it is repetitive, and pretty expensive. Between the washer, dryer, laundromat fees, fabric softeners and detergent costs,and the power it takes to run your machines you may find yourself in over your head. Read up on a few ways to keep some cash on laundry day. Read the rest...

10 ways to save on taxi and cab services.

Tyra — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 23:14:10 +0000

Getting from point A to point B is without your own ride sometimes means calling a cab. Especially true if you are out of town. If you use taxi's frequently, you're probably aware that the fees add up. Learn how to save money on taxi and cab services. Here's how... Read the rest...

Go DIY and save money

Tyra — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 03:00:21 +0000

There are so many different products and services out there today, it can be hard to separate wants from needs. Even harder, what things could you afford to be doing yourself? If you think about it, a lot of things. Learn how to build a "DIY" ethic, have fun, learn something new and save money! After all, if you can save money by doing it yourself, why not?

A few things you can do yourself...Read the rest...

Teach Kids how to Manage Money

Tyra — Sat, 25 Jul 2009 15:43:33 +0000

As a parent, it is your job to teach your children lifelong lessons and strategies to succeed in the "real world", and schools can only teach so much. Money management is obviously one of the most important components of adulthood, you use money to pay your rent, utilities and other bills. Unless children are taught otherwise, they may just grow up without the skills they need to be successful. Take an active part in your child's upbringing and teach them the value of a dollar. Here is a few ways how...Read the rest...

10 ways to save money on your cable or satellite tv bill

Tyra — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 00:15:17 +0000

Of course, the best choice is to forgo cable, but with television being a favorite of millions, cable or Satellite service may just be something you want to fit into your budget. As long as you are careful, cable or satellite service can be an affordable luxury. Or maybe you really need to cut back and give up cable...we can help with that too. Learn how to save money on your cable or satellite bill. Read the rest...

16 ways to earn extra money

Tyra — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 02:46:36 +0000

Sure, you are cutting back on everything from entertainment to grocery costs. You may have even eliminated things from your budget altogether, but what happens when you still come up shorthanded on cash? We have put together a list of sixteen creative ways to pull in a little extra income for any unexpected expenses, or just for spending money. Read the rest...

Save money with natural pest control

Tyra — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 02:49:30 +0000

Ants, rats, mice, oh my! Household pests are an annoyance, and it costs a chuck of cash to take care of them. Just one visit from an exterminator can cost you about sixty dollars! Do something good for your wallet and the environment and read up on a few tips and tricks to repel and prevent pests naturally.

AntsRead the rest...

Dorm Life - Cheap College Living Tips

Tyra — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 12:42:32 +0000

Few things are as a great as an investment as a college education, with it, you'll equip yourself with the skills and knowledge for a successful career, and guard yourself against future financial difficulties. That said, it sure is hard to stay within budget while attending college. We understand, and have put together a list of a few tips and tricks to save you money during your college years. Read the rest...

Recession proof jobs

Tyra — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 12:46:44 +0000

With the economy at a record low, steady employment from a recession proof industry brings peace of mind to many people. Recession proof jobs are in industries that will continue to make a profit, and need employees despite any downfall in the nation's economy. Keep this list of sixteen recession proof industries (in no particular order) in mind when searching for a employment. Read the rest...

Eight ways to save money on textbooks.

Tyra — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 17:50:15 +0000

True, getting a good college education will help you succeed financially in the long run, but the cost of tuition, books and supplies sure does eat away at your finances until you find yourself on a strict college budget. The typical student plops down $900 per school year on textbooks alone! You can save money on textbooks will preperation and creativity. Below are a few tips on how to save money on school text books. Read the rest...

Save money by starting a carpool.

Tyra — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 14:02:27 +0000

The dictionary defines carpooling as "an arrangement among a group of automobile owners by which each owner in turn drives the others or their children to and from a designated place. The terms "rideshare", "carpool", and "vanpool" all have similar meanings, and are used interchangeably throughout this article." Rideshares are generally set up to be mutually beneficial to each person participating, as driving responsibilities and costs are shared. Save money, help the environment, benefit yourself, and help others by starting a carpool in your area! Read the rest...

A cheap date: 17 tips and tricks

Tyra — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 11:37:04 +0000

How to have a cheap date, without being a cheapskate. There is not a reason in the world that dating, or spending quality time with somebody you love should be a budget buster. Like most money-saving ideas, it's all about thinking outside the box. And seriously, how many times can you out for the predictable "dinner and movie" routine before being just a bit bored with it?And if nothing else, those of us that are cheap dates probably go out on more dates ;-) Read the rest...

Part time jobs for teenagers and students

Tyra — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 02:08:24 +0000

In the United States, teenagers are legally allowed to start work at sixteen years of age. And in some cases, like hardship situations, teenagers can begin working at age 15. Working students and teens generally start their shifts after school, and on the weekends. Some students choose to only get "summer jobs", and focus their attention on academics during the school year. Either way, part-time employment for teens can be fulfilling, fun and a great hands-on learning experience.Read the rest...

The frugal fashionista- How to save money on fashion and clothing

Tyra — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 12:35:28 +0000

Just because you are cutting back on everything, grocery bills, entertainment, grocery costs, going out to eat, and yes - clothing, that doesn't mean you have to attempt pulling off a ratty T--shirt and baggy sweatpants combo. There are tons of ways to look chic, fashionable and as "up to date" as you did before the hard times struck. Below is a list of my 20 best tips to staying fashionable without maxing out your credit cards. These ideas range from smarter shopping, to forgoing the mall for the craft store. After all, fashion is about creativity, isn't it?Read the rest...

Home decor on a budget - Top 15 tips

Tyra — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 12:42:32 +0000

"Home is where the heart is".Your home, whether it be a house, apartment, duplex or any other sort of dwelling should be a positive reflection of you and your family. However, it's easy to carried away when it's time to decorate, and spend way more than you need to.

Fortunately, a well decorated and comfortable home can be more about creativity, and less about your budget. We have complied a list of helpful tips to make your home all your own without pulling out a loan.Read the rest...

Saving: Learn from the Frugal Millionaires

MikeV — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 11:29:40 +0000

Some people do not want to appear to need to save money when they can, and so they hide the fact that they are looking for "deals." It may surprise some folk, though, to know that many of those who do have money - even some millionaires - and really do not need to be concerned about saving money the way income challenged people do, are also very conscious about where their money goes.Read the rest...

Moonlighting: Is a second (part-time) job right for you?

Tyra — Sat, 30 May 2009 11:50:17 +0000

What could you do with some extra income? Pay off debt? Support an new member of the family? Get ready for the holidays? Pay for huge hospital bills? Send one of your kids off to a great college? Pay off your mortgage faster?Read the rest...

25 helpful tips for saving money on pet expenses.

Tyra — Sat, 30 May 2009 01:08:00 +0000

Pets play a huge part in so many peoples lives, some people might even consider them a member of the family. A number of studies have pointed out that pet owners have longer life spans than non pet owners. It's so unfortunate that tough times have forced many families to give their pets away to friends, family members and in the worst cases to already overcrowded animal shelters and pounds.Read the rest...

Low-budget beauty

Tyra — Thu, 21 May 2009 12:10:53 +0000

A smart woman is a beautiful woman. It's not exactly news that beauty products are costly, and can really add up once you reach the check-out stand. A few weeks ago I was the local drug store (Not the mall, beauty superstore, or department store, mind you!) and found myself putting items back as the cashier rang it up!Read the rest...

Tips for giving frugal and thoughtful gifts

Tyra — Thu, 21 May 2009 11:32:09 +0000

It seems like every time we look at the calendar there's another birthday, holiday or anniversary creeping up on us. Another few days spent stressing out about what to get, and often times another few weeks bouncing back from the damage your wallet took during that holiday.

Read the rest...

Budget brides - Tips for a cheap wedding

Tyra — Thu, 21 May 2009 12:45:49 +0000

The idea of falling in love, getting married, living together under one roof and starting a family together is the ultimate goal for many of us. Love may be free, but getting married is definitely not...

According to Cost of Wedding, the average American wedding costs $20,398! And that's not including the honeymoon and any extras like bridal showers. Don't let something as free and innocent as love tear apart your savings. Learn strategies that will make your wedding memorable without having to take out a second mortgage.

Here's our extensive list of tips for brides on a budget...Read the rest...

Save money by shopping at the dollar store

Tyra — Tue, 19 May 2009 10:45:42 +0000

Everything here is only one dollar! For most items in stock, that is an unbeatable bargain. Have you ever thought to forgo your trip to the supermarket, drug store or general store and try restocking on essentials at a dollar store? Don't turn a blind eye to this bargain store! Stop by and you will see that they carry everything from cleaning supplies, to pet toys.

Things to buy at the dollar storeRead the rest...

Top ten things you could afford to cut back on.

Tyra — Tue, 19 May 2009 12:01:07 +0000

Everybody, frugal-minded or not, is having to cut back or cut out some type of expense from their budget. Don't end up suffering in the long run by cutting costs on essentials, and paying full price for things you just don't need. Before rehauling your entire budget, take a look at the top ten things you can afford to cut back on, or cut out altogether. Read the rest...

Lose weight, save money

Tyra — Sat, 16 May 2009 15:27:39 +0000

Is weighing less costing you more? Seems a little ironic, doesn't it? Diet and exercise are a surprising cost because you'd assume that moving around more, and eating better wouldn't put a dent in your pocket.

Many diets recommend expensive ingredients, and items like supplements can cost $40.00 per bottle. Read our tips, and remember that feeling great, and being healthy doesn't have to cost a bunch.

Weight loss is caused by two things:Read the rest...

Cleaning your home, cheap

Tyra — Thu, 14 May 2009 17:18:08 +0000

$4.29 a bottle, $3.89 for 16 fluid ounces, and -gasp- $24.99 for a MOP?... oh, and not to mention the $4.00 replacement pads. Browse down the cleaning aisle of any grocery or supermarket, and these will be the price tags you'll find on cleaning supplies. With prices like that, it seems like a luxury to not live in filth, doesn't it?

Luckily, maintaining a happy, healthy and clean home doesn't have to cost you an arm and a leg. Find out how to do it frugally today! Below are eight tips to help you clean up your home without cleaning out your wallet. Read the rest...

The guide to buying secondhand

Tyra — Wed, 13 May 2009 22:02:01 +0000

It doesn't take a genius to figure out that buying anything- Clothes, CDs, books, cookware, cars, baby and kid equipment, sports gear,and countless other items, will be cheaper if you get it used, or secondhand. Luckily for both the frugal and eco-conscious the Internet has made access to second hand merchandise so much easier!Read the rest...

Give mom a great mother's day - without breaking the bank.

Tyra — Tue, 05 May 2009 02:19:56 +0000

Giving mom a day to remember doesn't need to wipe out your bank account. Sometimes, a cheaper, yet thoughtful, gift can mean a lot more than the overpriced flowers that everybody else is receiving on Mother's day. In honor of mothers around the globe, we've created a list of frugal, yet thoughtful and considerate ideas and gifts you can put together for Mom.Read the rest...

You Want TIPS? You Can't Handle These TIPS!

micharch — Sun, 26 Apr 2009 19:42:26 +0000

How many of these tips did YOU know about?

A sealed envelope

Put in the freezer for a few hours, then slide a Knife under the flap. The envelope can then be resealed. (hmmm...)

Appliance Cords Read the rest...

Beyond the basics: Dig deeper to save money

billeater — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 19:13:29 +0000

Chances are you've heard the classic money-saving tips – things like brewing your own coffee, buying paper towels in bulk, and brown-bagging it – and are already employing them. These challenging economic times call for even more stringent purse-tightening, however; here are some ideas that you may not yet know about....Read the rest...

Earth Day - Tips, Freebies, and Giveaways!

Tyra — Sun, 19 Apr 2009 21:15:49 +0000

April 22nd is Earth day, a great holiday to try going green while saving money. Obviously, watching your energy intake and rate of consumption preserves the Earth and its resources, but saving money is a very welcome side effect. Good for the planet, and good for you.

We've compiled a list of simple, green, lifestyle changes to you can make at home and at work, followed by a list of Earth Day Freebies, Contests, and Giveaways...Read the rest...

Free Samples: Five Great Websites to find them

Tyra — Sun, 29 Mar 2009 17:55:18 +0000

Free samples anyone?... Who could say no to that question?
In the declining economy, cheap is good, but FREE is even better!

Why do companies provide free samples?
Corporations provide samples to consumers in hopes to "draw you in" on their product versus another similar product. Most samples are for new and improved products, to promote a new line of products, or to battle direct competition.

What can I get samples of?Read the rest...

Get Your Finances in Order for 2009

billeater — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 14:55:39 +0000

This guest article comes from Kim Danger. Kim, a nationally-recognized savings expert and founder of mommysavers.com, has teamed up with Uniroyal Tire to release a series of e-books for the frugal-minded. The team’s e-books and videos can be found at Uniroyal's Web Site, and they are available for free.

As everyone in the world knows, saving money is the number one topic of conversation today. My latest e-book gives you clear, concise methods to get your finances in order for the coming year.

Create an actual budget on paper.

The single most important thing you can do to clear up your financial picture is to create a budget. Many people think it’s alright to follow a vague budget in the back of their heads. It certainly isn’t. You won’t be able to see what else your money could be doing for you without examining what it’s doing now and what your short-term plans for it are.Read the rest...

The Pitfalls and Worth of Coupon Clipping (Plus Some Tips)

Jessica.Drew — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 18:49:59 +0000

One of the most recommended ways for consumers to save money is to clip coupons – coupons for groceries, restaurants, big – ticket items and almost anything else that comes with a coupon. Alternately, consumers often pose the valid question; is coupon clipping worth my time? After all doesn’t time equal money?

Whether or not coupon clipping is worth your time is impossible to answer in a generic manner. If you're a hotshot executive who earns over six figures each year, then you're much better off working to earn more money. However, if you've just been laid off and are living off savings or credit, and you have a few extra hours a day that are not dedicated to job hunting, then yea – you had better be clipping coupons.

However, what if you fall somewhere in the middle, like most of us? You're the average American, who earns a moderate living. Well chances are that selective coupon clipping is the best bet for your finances. What exactly is selective coupon clipping? It's clipping coupons efficiently and avoiding the common coupon pitfalls.Read the rest...

Clothing Consignment Shops: High Fashion at Discount Store Prices

Nomad27 — Sat, 14 Feb 2009 00:44:28 +0000

When you’re underemployed or out of a job, finding a great-looking outfit for that all-important interview can be hard on the wallet. And if you need to dress for a special occasion, like a wedding, bar mitzvah, or graduation in tough economic times, the thought of shelling out the money for an appropriate outfit can dampen your joy. In times like these, consignment clothing stores can be the answer to your fashion woes.

Most of the clothing in these shops has been worn before, but unlike thrift shops, consignment clothing stores stock only high-quality, very gently used clothing in like-new condition. You’ll pay much lower prices than you would for brand-new clothes—prices for famous label designer consignment clothes are often lower than those you would pay for the same type of item at a discount store like Target, K-Mart, or Wal-Mart—but you’ll look like a million bucks.
Read the rest...

MSN groups message boards are shutting down ... where to go?

billeater — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 06:00:00 +0000

The MSN groups pages, used by thousands to host their message boards and forums, are scheduled to shut down in February of 2009. It appears that Microsoft have decided to shut down the popular service in favor of sending it's customers to a partner at multiply.com. While they are providing an import tool to move people from MSN to multiplyRead the rest...

Free Student Loans for Low Income

Sun, 28 Dec 2008 18:07:45 +0000

Your level of income should not prevent you from getting the education that you desire. Fortunately, free student loans are available to needy students throughout the United States. Most schools offer some type of government financial-assistance program so their students can afford an education. There are several government programs you can apply to to help supplement the cost of your college education.

Free student loans enable students with low incomes to pay for the cost of their college education. These loans are provided by the government and are based on the student's income. Interested parties must apply through their designated college or via the Internet.
............................................................Read the rest...

Tips on Buy Furniture on a Low Budget

Sun, 28 Dec 2008 18:45:04 +0000

Shop in used furniture shops. Used furniture shops often monitor the types of furniture they bring in and carefully inspect it before putting it up for sale. Prices of furniture at used shops often are marked down almost half of what they were when they were new. Sometimes the blankets or comforters come along with bedding furniture as well.
Read the rest...

Exchange Christmas Gifts on a Low Budget

Sun, 28 Dec 2008 18:51:45 +0000

If your family has found itself in a bind due to the failing economy (or just a tight budget), you're probably wondering how you're going to participate in any kind of gift exchange this year. Yet there are still ways to exchange gifts on Christmas, even when funds are low. You can still enjoy the fun of giving, whether or not your family has cash on hand for the holiday Season.

Read the rest...

How to Plan a Family Christmas Party on a Budget- tips also great for other parties too!

Sun, 28 Dec 2008 18:58:30 +0000

Spending time with your family during the holiday is one of the best ways to celebrate. While times are tough with the high cost of fuel and food, money could be tighter during the holiday season. When everybody in the family can contribute together, it makes the cost of a Christmas party more affordable. A family should be able to take time and enjoy the holidays together without worrying about the price that their wallet is paying.

*Some of these tips also can be put into effect for throwing other low budget parties as well...

Read the rest...

Ways to save money...10 fresh ideas.

billeater — Sun, 28 Dec 2008 22:59:37 +0000

It's been several tough years in a row for many people, with shrinking 401k's, the subprime mortgage crisis, and layoffs. The rough economy found a way to affect almost all of us, and we could all use a little relief. Finding new ways to save money can help take a bit of the sting of your current financial situation, and put things in a new light.

With that in mind, here's our list of 10 ways to save money in 2011:Read the rest...

New Year's Resolutions that save money.

billeater — Wed, 24 Dec 2008 19:02:43 +0000

With the new year fast approaching, you are probably thinking about your resolutions already. You may also be thinking about the economy, and it's effects on you in the new year. So, why not focus on resolutions that aren't just good ideas, but will also save you money? Here's our top ten money-saving resolutions for the New Year.:Read the rest...

Small Changes Around the House Add up to Dollars in the Bank

billeater — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 23:33:53 +0000

This guest article from Kim Danger

Kim Danger is a nationally recognized savings expert and the founder of mommysavers.com. She has teamed up with Uniroyal Tire for the “More Mileage for Your Money” campaign to release free eBooks and videos for the budget-savvy. Her tips can be found at uniroyal.com's moremileageforyourmoney section. Her new eBook is slated for release in January 2009, and it focuses on getting your finances in order for the new year.

It takes a surprising amount of time, energy and money to run a household. With everything there is to do, we can sometimes overlook quick, easy steps that can trim the fat off of our budgets. The following tips are some of my favorites because of how little energy they require. I hope you have as much luck with them as I have!Read the rest...

Tips on Buying a Computer on a Budget...

Tue, 02 Dec 2008 23:51:41 +0000

While computers are great pieces of technology to have, they can be expensive to purchase. By looking in the right places or catching great after-holiday sales, you can find an affordable computer without too much trouble. When your family needs a computer for school or work, and your budget is fixed, it can be hard trying to figure out how to come up with the funding for one. There are ways to get the computer that you need without spending a lot of money. You just have to know where and when to shop, to get the deal(s) that you are looking for.Read the rest...

A Trip To The Thrift Store Could Make Your Attic Worth Thousands!

billeater — Sat, 15 Nov 2008 06:00:00 +0000

In almost every town across the country we have thrift stores. These are basically second hand shops full of clothes, electronics and all sorts of other brick & brack that others have now considered useless. While they say, “one man’s junk is another man’s treasure", there is a lot more then you think at the local thrift store. The thrift store is actually packed with money saving solutions for you and your family.

Before we even start to talk about the great finds in the thrift and second hand shops, let’s first talk about spending habits of most consumers. Consumers these days are often targeted by large groups of marketing teams whose sole purpose is to make you believe you need their product and they will use any and all means to do so. Did you ever notice that jingle or song from the commercial of the product you just saw or heard on TV? Sure you have, that's the results of the marketing teams hard work, but let's get back to the overspending and impulsive part...Read the rest...

Save money on your next household move

billeater — Sun, 12 Oct 2008 21:33:56 +0000

Saving money on your next move

This article by Ricardo Gonzalez from uShip.com

Ricardo Gonzalez is a content writer for uShip.com, a very successful online business that aims to change the experience of moving by letting various suppliers bid for your business. Ricardo contacted us to share some ideas on how to save money on your move.

Making a big move can seem like a daunting task. Whether you are moving across town or across the country, it's expensive and time consuming. There are many ways to make small savings that add up, and a few ways you can save big.

If your moving schedule is flexible, you have a great opportunity to save a lot of money, in some cases up to 75% or so. Transporters, especially smaller owner operated ones, often have to deal with half-empty trailers (less-than-truckload) and "empty miles" where they drive long distances with nothing to haul...Read the rest...

Send faxes for free using your web browser.

billeater — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 06:00:00 +0000

If you need to send a fax, there are several ways to do it for free, and avoid the per-page charges and inconvenience of having to drive to a mail and copy center.

There are some limitations, but the following options do work well, and the price is right...Read the rest...

Search smarter at craigslist.com and save money

billeater — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 06:00:00 +0000

Craigslist.com is a person-to-person classified ad service, with city-specific websites for most large cities in the U.S. There's a ton of great bargains to be had there, but many people have trouble locating the item they are looking for. And, they aren't aware that craigslists' search facility is a little more full-featured than it appears. Here's a few helpful tips that will help you find what you are looking for:Read the rest...

Lower your cable tv bill with a polite phone call

billeater — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 20:46:03 +0000

Cable operators are feeling the pressure from satellite companies, and you may be able to lower your cable tv bill with one simple phone call.

Check out what the current costs for satellite service are by checking out directv.com and dishnetwork.com .

Then, try the following call with your cable provider:Read the rest...

Save on your appliances

billeater — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 21:26:25 +0000

First, if you need a new appliance, try to purchase during the month of May. Retail stores tend to discount appliances for Mother's day and Memorial day. Also, many states offer a "tax holiday" during this time.

Don't forget to negotiate. These big ticket items are sold on commission, and the salespeople have the ability to make you a deal. Leverage price matching offers where the store will meet or beat advertised specials from their competitors.Read the rest...