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Articles - Money Management
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Back to Money Management view printable version 
10 Easy Ways to Gain Financial Freedom
1 - Build a list of current expenses. Keep track of where every dime goes each month. Individuals may be surprised to find out exactly where money is spent each month. Write down every expense including groceries, take-out food, utilities, transportation, insurance, clothing, gifts, credit card charges, entertainment, gasoline, childcare and medical expenses, television, telephone and newspaper expenses. Don't forget tips and convenience store purchases as well.
2 - Grocery Shopping. When grocery shopping, be sure to clip and use coupons. Develop and stick to a shopping list, limit shopping to once a week and review cash register receipts for errors before leaving the store.
3 - Car Transportation - When getting around town make sure tires are properly inflated for best gas mileage, get a second opinion for any major car repairs, shop around for the best auto insurance price, look for the lowest-priced gas on regular routes.
4 - Dressing Well On A Budget. Frequent consignment and thrift stores and only buy clothes on a needs basis. Check care labels and avoid "dry clean only" items. Shop at discount department stores and frequent the clearance racks. Consumers can save a bundle buying at the right place, at the right time.
5 - Reduce Medical Expenses. If an employer has a 'flexible spending account' benefit, where employees set aside pre-tax dollars to pay for medical expenses, take advantage of it. Just be sure to use every dollar set aside or it's lost money.
6 - Explore Child Care Options. Employers may also have a provision that allows you to set aside pre-tax dollars to pay for child care expenses. Again, use it or lose it. Is there a dependable family member willing to do the job? If so, family is more often reliable and less expensive.
7 - Having Fun on a Budget. Rent movies instead of going to the movie theater. Visit free local parks and museums. Buy used sporting equipment at yard sales or flea markets. Take out library books instead of buying new ones. Entertain at home instead of going out.
8 - When Eating Out… Try to limit eating out just to special occasions. Go for lunch or brunch, which is often cheaper than dinner and skip dessert. Use coupons that are sent through the mail or newspaper.
9 - How Much Is the Phone Bill? Shop around for better rates with a variety of carriers. Reduce option packages like three-way calling, caller ID and voice mail. Avoid using long distance during peak hours when rates are higher.
10 - Zap the Electric Bill. Turn off lights, radios and televisions when not in use. Set the thermostat lower in the winter, higher in the summer and if individuals have a dishwasher, let dishes air dry instead.
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