Business : Simple Ways to Save Money

Randy Stein

You don’t have to give up the simple pleasures in life to save money. Even small changes can lead to a big difference in your finances over time. Here are some practical ways to save money without changing your lifestyle.

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• Avoid ATM fees by using an ATM affiliated with your bank. It may not be convenient, but a few dollars here andthere can add up over time.

• Become a bargain shopper. Buy store brands at the grocery store. Clip and use coupons for items you buy regularly.

• Use the library rather than buying books. Shop at a used book store or arrange to trade books with friends.

• Regulate your home’s temperature by lowering the thermostat in the winter and moving it up in the summer. Check your furnace filter and replace as needed.

• Cut expenses you won’t miss. Take your lunch to work instead of eating out. Limit your daily cappuccino to once or twice a week. These daily expenses can be a roadblock to saving.

• Weekday Lunch – $6 lunch each workday adds up to $1,560 per year.
• Vending Machines – $1 pack of cookies every afternoon at work totals $260 per year.
• Cup of Joe – $2 coffee every weekday morning costs $520 per year.

Learning to avoid unnecessary expenses and common spending traps can help you pocket some savings. You’ll be surprised how quickly your change turns into dollars.

Source: Top 10 Money Drains, www.bankrate.com, visited November 3, 2008.

Tips brought to you by Farm Bureau Financial Services. For more information about products and services, call Randy R. Stein CLU, ChFC, LUTCF at (319) 472-5231 or stop by the office at 1105 West 9th Street in Vinton.

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