How to Save Money Every Day

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By MidniteWriter
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Ever wonder where your money goes? Looking for an easy way to budget? Or perhaps a simple savings plan you can live with? How about saving for the latest gadget or trimming expenses? It's easier than you think! By following these simple tips, at the end of 30 days you will have saved $90 without even thinking about it. That money is yours to earn interest on or spend as you wish. Go ahead, why not start today?

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Willpower
Determination
Notebook

Step 1

Starting any new plan is no easy task. Grab a notebook to write down your purchases. This tiny step can make you feel more accountable. Not a writer? Then use your palm or cell phone to record your purchases. Anything will do.
Step 2

At the end of a day, a few days or even a full week, take stock of all your purchases. This should give you a good picture of where your money goes.
Step 3

Now, if you are feeling ambitious, you could compile a list of weekly purchases. From that list, decide which ones are absolutely critical.
This one is a no-brainer, but that $3 to $5 Latte or other coffee can go! Take a thermos from home and set your coffee maker to have it brewed by the time you wake up.
Step 4

Taking toll roads? If you cannot avoid them, consider purchasing a speed or I-pass or similar gadget. You not only will save a considerable amount on the money you spend on tolls, but time as well. You can fly by in the special lanes while others dig for change.
Step 5

Speaking of change, don't put it in the vending machine. Keep your desk (locked) stocked with nonperishable food items such as chips, microwave popcorn, apples, gum, soda, juice, water bottles, juice, soup and more. Vending machines typically charge almost double what you can buy it for in the store. And don't forget to stock up when there are sales on your favorite items.
Step 6

Don't buy that newspaper or magazine! Subscribe to it instead. Have it delivered to your home or work. Better yet, share a subscription between your co-workers. Don't want to subscribe? Check out back issues from your library of magazines and read your news headlines on the Internet.
Step 7

Set the thermostat lower during the day and late at night and don't forget to insulate, even with those plastic window kits. Anything is better than nothing. Keep unused lights off and turn the computer off at night. All these little changes could add up to big change for you.
Step 8

Take your lunch! Don't deprive yourself completely, though. If you go out to eat 3 times a week, cut it back to 2. If you go out every day, try cutting out one day. You can always pack your lunch the night before or put soup or leftovers in a container and bring it with you.

If you must dine out, trying splitting an entree with a willing partner. Restaurant portions are generally huge enough, some almost serve three! And, they can be pricey as well.
Step 9

Pay your bills online through company websites or with your bank's online banking feature. If you are not sure how to do this, see your bank's website and sign up for online banking. This will save you some money, depending on how many stamps you use and checks you write.
Step 10

Kids taking hot lunch? You may be surprised to learn of how much food is thrown away. Go over the menu each month and have the kids mark off when they would like to take a cold lunch. Also, limit the amount of extras they can purchase with lunch (if applicable).