Family budgeting should be a way of life, not a challenge. Because every penny counts these days, a few dollars unnecessarily spent here and there can easily turn into hundreds, even a thousand dollars – and the family budget is off the rails.
If you’ve resolved to save in 2020 (and want to save a substantial amount), here are some ideas to save money. Your family – and your pocketbook – will thank you.
Create a Budget – It only takes a few moments to begin analyzing and identifying places where you’re overspending. After accounting for housing and bills, try allotting a smaller amount for entertainment and other “leisure” purchases. If you can subtract $100 a month from your monthly budget, you’ll save $1,200 in 2020.
Plan Meals – Most families throw out so much food each week, they’re tossing money into the garbage. Make a grocery list and stick to it. Trim your weekly food shopping by $20 to save $1,040 a year.
Shop Smartly – Look for deals. Compare prices. Be an end-of-season shopper. Look for sale racks. Use coupons. Don’t buy on impulse.
Open a Savings Account – Every week, move $10 into a savings account. You’ll hardly notice it’s gone, and at the end of 2020, you’ll have more than $500!
Increase Your Retirement Contribution – Bump up your annual contribution by 2% or more. That’s an extra $1,000 a year (or more if your employer has a company match plan).
Staycation – Turn a travel holiday into a chance to do some sightseeing nearby. There are a number of exciting spots within an hour or so, and you’ll save a lot of money.
Stop Smoking – Health benefits aside, quitting could save up to $2,500 or more a year. Plus, becoming a non-smoker can extend your lifespan and lower your medical costs and insurance rates.
Refinance Your Home – Check the latest rates at NobleCU.com. Although rates are inching up higher, you may find a rate lower than yours. By refinancing, you could save $100 or more on your monthly payments.
Make 2020 the year you pay yourself, by saving thousands!
Noble Credit Union, a Forbes Best-in-State Credit Union, offers members full access to a wide range of financial services, including checking and savings accounts with no monthly fees, online and mobile banking, low rate MyRewards VISA credit cards, even budget management. For more information about membership in Noble Credit Union, call (559) 252-5000 or visit NobleCU.com.