Flattening The Curve of Your Checkbook
51 random ways to lower your bills and expenses
- Create a budget and stick to it.
- Refinance your mortgage.
- Call around and compare rates for auto, home, and medical insurance.
- Turn down the thermostat, or put it on a timer.
- Cook food at home.
- Downsize, downsize, downsize.
- Sell your vehicle and take public transit.
- Put 10% of your income into retirement.
- Eliminate your cable bill.
- Cancel subscriptions and memberships.
- Pay cash for your expenses.
- Turn down the thermostat on your water heater.
- Move to a less expensive area.
- Quit smoking.
- Set up automatic payments for recurring bills.
- Bargain shop.
- Update your cell phone plan.
- No impulse buying — wait 24–72 hours before making a purchase.
- Use mail order for your regular medications.
- Replace your light bulbs with LED lights.
- Eat leftovers.
- Cut up your credit card.
- DIY it.
- Maintain your car, home, and appliances.
- Stop or reduce dining out and take out.
- Find discounts through military, AAA, seniors, students, teachers, and employee.
- Get a roommate.
- Make coffee at home.
- Create and stockpile money for an emergency fund.
- Pay your bills on time.
- Defer your payments on major loans if money is tight.
- Make a grocery list before shopping — and stick to the list.
- Consolidate debt to a low interest rate.
- Pack a lunch.
- Price compare — Don’t pay full price when you can get it cheaper somewhere else.
- Take a short shower.
- Give yourself a mani/pedi.
- Fix the leaky faucet.
- Buy generic items.
- Have a ‘no-spending day’ once per week.
- Use the library.
- Clean out your closet.
- Sign up for the rewards program at a store you frequently shop.
- Look for free or low cost entertainment.
- Go for a walk outside.
- Double-check and take advantage of your company’s benefits and perks.
- Automate your savings.
- Donate your unneeded ‘stuff’ and get a receipt.
- Make instead of buying gifts for others.
- Buy staples in bulk.
- Most of all — be grateful for what you have, give to others what you can, and get rid of what you don’t need.
