Trying to save money can seem like an impossible task.  Raising two children on a one person income, paying rent, insurance, buying food? Saving money seems next to impossible. Financial experts say regardless of your situation, we are probably throwing away a few hundred dollars a year, and we can save a ton of money by changing a few small things. Take a look at the list and see if this might help you!

  • PREMIUM SUBSCRIPTION SERVICES- Rethink these. It's probably a nice thing to have DVR and 300 channels. But how many of those channels do you actually watch each month?
  • EXTRA SAVINGS: If your super crunched for money , try rabbit ears. Typically you'll still get basic local channels, and you'll typically save over $100 a month.  Not to mention, you'll have a lot more time to do other things with your family, rather than sit around and watch recorded television programs.

  • BUY GENERIC. What?! Some people think that buying generic means sacrificing quality. But in most cases you're just paying for the fancy packaging. I buy generic all the time.  Here's the difference. I can pay .88 cents for a can of green beans that are generic, versus a can that is fancy packaged for $1.98.
  • EXTRA SAVINGS: When it's crunch time, CRUNCH!  You can buy twice as much healthy food if you'll avoid sodas, chips, and cookies. Plus, if you're buying generic brands, add to that meats that are closer to the expiration date. You'll find huge discounts on these items. My suggestion is to buy them close to the expiration date, and then fix it immediately when you get home.

  • CELL PHONES. Everyone feels the pressure of having the latest and greatest cell phone. All kids want Smart phones. But this can really put a damper on things. Cell phone plans for a family of 4 can cost more than $200 a month. Ask yourself: Do you need the smart phone, or do you just WANT the smart phone?  If you've got an electric bill that has to be paid, or a $200 cell phone bill, which one is going to take priority if you have to choose? Be realistic. 
  • EXTRA SAVINGS: Right now is a great time to talk to several different providers. You may be able to get out of your contract and get with a different company that could save you more than $100 a month.

  • TAKE IT EASY ON THE COUPONS. So many people clip coupons like crazy. It's almost a hobby for many. But, if you're clipping coupons for things that you just WANT, rather than NEED, it's not saving you money.
  • EXTRA SAVINGS: Look at the packaging of items that you buy frequently. You'll often find great coupons and savings inside the packaging.

  • NEVER PAY FULL RETAIL PRICE. Almost all consumer goods go on sale at some point, and that's when experts say it's time to buy.
  • EXTRA SAVINGS: Don't buy it if you don't need it. Sometimes we can get by with a lot less than we think we can.

  • DON'T BUY SUGGESTED ADD-ONS. Rental car workers are trained to get you to buy their insurance, when your own insurance policy probably covers you. Those kinds of extra fees can add up quick.
  • EXTRA SAVINGS: It seems like even the smallest toys and games have back up plans for $2 or $3 that sound like a great deal, but really? If you lose that toy, are you going to file away that paperwork to get your money back? Probably not. Don't waste your time.

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