Finding ways to cut costs

A quick Internet search will leave you with hours of reading on the subject of cutting expenses. From grocery store coupons to clothing exchanges, the opportunities to reduce spending are limited only by your imagination and your willingness to follow through.

Start cutting costs with these ideas

Use the money you save to help reduce your debt faster, or discover the satisfaction of saving.

1. Shop around for insurance. Rates paid for home, auto, and life insurance can vary widely from carrier to carrier. If it’s been awhile since you’ve compared insurance rates, you might be pleasantly surprised at how much you can save. You can call around to your local insurance brokers, or use an online tool that will compare rates from multiple vendors and offer you the best quote.
    
2. Cell service. If you have reliable cell service at your home, disconnect your land line.
    
3. Groceries. Plan your meals around what’s on sale at the grocery store. Extend your savings by using coupons whenever possible.
    
4. Subscriptions. Cancel your magazine and newspaper subscriptions, and give up all those little luxuries like manicures, pedicures and designer coffee, at least until you are in a stronger financial position.
    
5. Brown bag. Pack your lunch instead of eating out.
    
6. Choose water. If you do go out, skip the pop and drink water. It’s healthier, and it’s free.
    
7. Program your thermostat to save on heating and cooling when you are not at home.
    
8. Cancel your cable and consider switching to less expensive streaming television.
    
9. Take care of your health and your teeth. Medical and dental expenses can drain your pocketbook.
    
10. Exercise. Instead of paying for a gym membership, look for exercise DVDs at thrift store or on streaming services, walk outside, or take up an active hobby like hiking.

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