Living a comfortable lifestyle can be expensive. Luckily, there are many ways to save money on the things you need each day to sustain it.
Prescription Drugs
You need to take medications daily, but you don’t need to pay as much as you might think. In many cases, with insurance plans covering just the basics and you having a higher out-of-pocket expense for your deductibles, shopping around for the best prices is in your best interest. Thankfully, there are companies that offer a prescription discount card, helping you to save money on your medications.
Another way to save more money is to ask your doctor to write a prescription that you take daily for a three-month supply, instead of the usual month. This reduces your deductible considerably, and if you take several medications it can really add up.
Saving at the Supermarket
Weekly trips to the grocery store can consume many of your extra cash. The good news is that there are numerous ways to save money on these outings. First always plan your meals for the coming week ahead of time and then check through your pantry, refrigerator, and closets to see what else you are running low on. Then compile a list and stick to it.
Next, go online to one of the many free coupon sites and print out the ones that apply. In addition, you should also check the local flyers, either received in the mail or online, to see who’s offering the best price on the things you need. You may need to go to several stores in your area to enjoy the full savings, but in the end, it’s worth it.
Utilities, Cable and Cell Service
When was the last time you actually combed through your utility, cable and cell phone bills? Chances are if you are like most people, you haven’t. Instead of simply paying it, read it. There are a lot of hidden fees that you may be able to negotiate to get the bills reduced by a few dollars.
Also, it’s a good idea to shop around and make sure that you are getting the best rates possible. Not all companies charge the same rates and you could end up losing money for the same services your neighbor enjoys for far less. You may even pay for services you canceled some time ago without knowing it. It’s important to take the time and contact each one to see what you can do to reduce the payment.
Lower Your Household Expenses
In addition to shopping around for the best price on your utilities, you should also make an effort to consume less. This is good for you and the environment. Simple changes like replacing light bulbs with LEDs, turning down the heat and raising the air conditioning at night, and doing only full laundry and dishwasher loads can add up to quite the savings over time. If you are in the market for new kitchen appliances make sure to purchase energy-efficient models. Initially, they may cost a bit more, but the savings over time will more than makeup for it.
Rewards Cards
Many local establishments offer free cards that you can use to save money on the things you buy regularly at their place of business. There are so many businesses that partake in this now that almost anywhere you go you can get a card including your grocery store, gas station, coffee shop, and even your hair salon. Take advantage of this, especially if it’s a place you go to often. A free cup of coffee might not seem like a lot but add a few of them together and it adds up to more money back into your pockets.
There are so many ways to save money daily. Before you make any purchase, shop around so that you know you are getting the best price possible.
