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Step 1
One of the simplest ways to accumulate cash for the holidays is to adjust your tax withholding. The average tax refund last year was just over $2,500. If you have less withheld for the last two months of the year, then this could equal approximately $400 in your pocket. You'll need to ask your HR department to give you another W-4 so that you can adjust your withholding accordingly.
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Step 2
Another easy step to holiday cash is to simply lower your thermostat. If your home has a fireplace, lower that dial by five degrees and chop some wood. You need the exercise to burn off those extra calories and burning a fire adds holiday cheer. The Alliance to Save Energy estimates that every degree you lower your thermostat reduces your energy bill by 5 percent--therefore, a five-degree reduction can lower your bill by one-quarter. For example, if your monthly heating bill is $250, then you could save maybe $60 each month this way. (This idea can serve you well past the holidays.)
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Step 3
Cut those cable and magazine bills through the end of the year. Go online and read your favorite periodicals and check out the library or Redbox for your entertainment. This is a great time to catch free holiday concerts and other shows as well.
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Step 4
Make fewer trips to the grocery store and local restaurants. Your waistline will thank you as well as your wallet. Look for coupons and buy in bulk. If you're having company this year, chances are you'll use up more of it than you think.
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Step 5
For the more mature members of your present-receiving corps, try shopping and giving gifts a week after Christmas when prices have been slashed and sales abound.
Comments
MidniteWriter said
on 12/12/2008 Good ideas, these are all do-able!
soundofthesea said
on 12/9/2008 Good tips. Thanks for the ideas.
soundofthesea said
on 12/9/2008 Good tips. Thanks for the ideas.
straighthealth said
on 12/4/2008 step 5 is great. haha
perkins88 said
on 12/1/2008 good avice