This is stuff straight from my savings/price book.
These are transcribed from my hand written notes, ways for anyone to save money, from the complete n00b to the seasoned couponing/frugal living professional.
PRICE BOOKS: So I've discussed Price books before- it can be as little or as much as you want it to be. My price book is in a hardcovered spiral bound pad. It's got a list of what I buy, then there are columns that have a store name at the top. I write in how much my items cost at the following stores: CVS, Walgreens, Albertson's, Vons, Ralph's.
I add new items as needed. My price book is in pencil, in case i need to remove anything. Some people use Excel spreadsheets, or an Access database they built themselves.
Oldies, but goodies:
Shop from a list
Shop alone (without your kids, husband)- you will spend less.
Be willing to try new brands, including the store brand. Sign up for club cards.
Just because there is a coupon- doesn't mean you A) Have to buy it, and B) it's cheaper.
STACK IT UP! Some stores let you "stack" coupons. Here you go: There is a store coupon, say Target, and there is a manufacturer coupon. Target lets you use both together. So does Walgreens, and CVS. Remember YMMV.'' Ask at your store if you can use them both.
SAVE ON SERVICES: Buy in bulk. Buy 4 massages, get one free. You can also get oil changes, beauty services (including haircuts), home cleaning services, just ask!!
MEDIA: Save cash by not subscribing to magazines- visit your fav mags. websites to read the articles. Most magazines publish the majority of their articles online.
The library has LOTS of great DVD's! We have been checking out DVD's from the library recently, saving over $100 in rental fees!
Turn to the 'Net: Check out Get1free.com type in your zip code and see what is in your neighborhood. For our area, there are movie, Frozen yogurt, food, and day spa deals!
If you have an Entertainment book, register your card (that comes with the book) for more coupons, deals, and savings on entertainment.com.
Your Opinion matters!! Survey websites like Synovate and MyPoints email you surveys and offers. Complete them to earn points which you can redeem for cash or gift cards.
It Pays to be a Pro! If you have a professional designation (CPA, CCAM, CHLU), check with your licensing agency website to see if they offer any discounts or deals.
Likewise, if you have USAA, AARP, or AAA, take advantage of all of the services and discounts they offer. Visit their website or give them a ring- You'd be surprised at all the cool stuff you can get with your AAA membership!
Listening for the secret messages! Many radio and TV stations offer discounted Gift Certificates ($50 GC for $25) on their websites. Most Clear Channel station websites offer this. For San Diegians, check out: http://kmyi.star941deals.com/ or KYXY's 1/2 off Gift Certificates: HTTP://www.sandiegohalfoff.com
SAVINGS IN THE BAG! Henry's and Trader Joe's offer a discount (5 or 10 cents) for every cloth bag you bring in to pack your groceries in.
LOWER YOUR ENERGY BILL: Unplug appliances whennot in use. Even if they are turned off, they can still draw power.
Install a low flow showerhead and a low flow toilet, and purchase energy star rated appliances when available. Many times there are rebates in addition to the money you will save!
Use CFL bulbs, and see if your electrical provider does trade in days when you can take in your old energy wasting bulbs and halogen lamps and get new energy effiecent bulbs and lamps.
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