The Beginner's Tips For Saving Money
You don’t need to wait for a big windfall to save money. Small changes that help you cut back on common expenses soon add up—and lead to hundreds of dollars in savings every year.
Here are some tips for saving money that you can use right now. Ready, get set, save!
Money-Saving Tips
Make A Meal Plan
If you don’t have a meal plan, you will likely overspend or waste money on food that you end up throwing away.
Planning meals helps you get the most value and nutrition from your food purchases. Look for budget recipes that are delicious but use cheaper ingredients. Have a “Meatless Monday” and use beans, tofu or vegetables. Invest in a slow-cooker or pressure-cooker and make even cheap cuts of meat tender.
Change Supermarkets
Are you going to a supermarket simply because it’s near your home, or out of habit? It may be worth comparing prices with other supermarkets. Even if it’s farther away, if you make a thorough list and do your shopping once a month, you can save money and time. For supermarkets that offer bulk discounts, you can also shop with a friend and split the wares.
Go Natural And DIY
Instead of spending on brand-name household cleaners and beauty products, research natural alternatives. For example, use bleach or baking soda for disinfecting the home, or make your own facial scrubs with olive oil and sugar.
This is one of our favorite tips for saving money because it’s also more natural and eco-friendly too.
Join A Savings Challenge
Online savings challenges turn being frugal into a fun game. Check this list from Forbes Magazine for some ideas.
Set Up Automatic Transfers
Set up your bank account to transfer a set amount of money into a savings account. You can start with just 50 dollars a month and increase it as you are able to save in other areas.
You can also set up your account to automatically pay for regular bills, such as subscriptions or utilities, so that you don’t accidentally default and have to pay fines or fees for reconnection.
Lower Your Energy Costs
Little changes can help you lower your electricity bill. For example, use LED lights that have lower energy consumption, fix your house’s insulation leaks, use smart power trips or more energy-efficient appliances, unplug appliances when they’re not in use, etc.
Use A Budget App To Track Expenses
Being more aware of your daily expenses can help you spot areas where you typically overspend. There are many apps that can help you do that—they’re absolutely free, and some of them will even have tips for saving money.
Pay In Cash As Often As Possible
One of the best tips for saving money can be summed up in two words: use cash. It disciplines you because you have to plan your expenses and use only the money you have allotted for it.
To do this, withdraw your total budget for the next two weeks or month (depending on your salary cycle) and divide the money into envelopes—one envelope per expense category such as food, transportation, etc.
Look For Secondhand Deals
Scour stores for pre-loved items that are in good condition. Many of these items only need a little repair or cleaning and are significantly cheaper than if you bought them brand new.
Follow Experts On Social Media To Get Insider Tips
Many money gurus share great tips for saving money in specific areas. For example, chefs can share tips on saving money for food, and parenting sites share tips on saving money on childcare expenses. Before you make any purchase, check what they have to say—and how much you can save.
Get An Installment Loan For Emergency Expenses
An installment loan can help you raise money for urgent, unexpected expenses that can’t be covered by your savings or insurance. This includes car or house repairs, medical treatment, or important unexpected travel.
Installment loans allow you to pay off the loan over a longer period of time. The monthly payments are smaller, and you can factor them into your budget and plan your expenses carefully.
How To Get An Installment Loan In Utah
Utah Title Loans, Inc. has one of the simplest and fastest installment loan application processes. You can borrow up to $1,500. You can start the application online, then complete the process at the branch in as little as 30 minutes.
You just need to present a driver’s license, state-issued ID, proof of income such as a paystub, and a checking account that is under your name. Fill out the online form, and you will receive a call from the loan representative who will explain the entire process and answer your questions.
When you’re ready, go to the nearest Utah Title Loans, Inc. location to bring the required documents and finish some paperwork. If approved, you will receive the money on the same day or the following business day.
Contact us to find out more about how to get an installment loan in Utah.
Note: The content provided in this article is only for informational purposes, and you should contact your financial advisor about your specific financial situation.