This post is part of a series called 13 Money Resolutions for 2013.
Yesterday, I discussed how to jumpstart your finances for the new year by setting a small, easy financial goal to get you on track and build momentum. Whether your aim is to pay off debt, your mortgage, or save for something big like a trip or a new car, you’ll need more money than you have right now. One effective way to do this is by finding areas in your budget where you’re wasting money.
It’s not always obvious. Throwing away leftovers is like throwing away money. Even when paying your electric bill, you might find you can get a better deal on utilities or your broadband package. Overpaying is wasteful too.
So, let’s start identifying where you can trim your budget.
**CAR**
– Do you really need a car?
– Can you work from home one day a week or use public transport?
– Can you walk or bike more often?
– Are you paying the minimum insurance for the coverage you need?
– Do you need two cars?
**HOUSING**
– Are your utility bills as low as possible, or are you wasting energy?
– Do you need cable?
– Do you turn off lights when leaving a room?
– Can you switch to a better deal for broadband, Netflix, or utilities?
– Is your house properly insulated?
– Can you dry your clothes outside?
– Do you need a cleaning service?
**GROCERIES**
– Are you eating everything you buy?
– Can you switch to the store’s brand?
– Do you eat meat with every meal?
– Can you reduce your meat, dairy, and alcohol consumption, even temporarily?
– Have you checked your stockpile for items nearing their expiration date?
– Do you use coupons?
**PERSONAL**
– Can you refrain from buying new clothes for a while?
– Can you ask a friend to cut your hair or do your nails yourself?
– Can you find a free course instead of a paid one?
– Can you borrow books from the library instead of buying them?
By ensuring you’re getting the best deal on everything you buy or every monthly expense, and only buying what you need, you can cut a lot of unnecessary spending. This can free up a significant amount of money for your 2013 financial goals.
Today also marks the launch of the Debt Movement, started by Jeff from Good Financial Cents. The movement aims to help the community pay off $10 million of debt in 90 days. That’s right, $10 million! As part of this effort, $10,000 will be given away in the form of debt scholarships. You can find more information about this initiative online.
The actual debt pay-off period begins on February 1st. In the meantime, you can explore the personal finance blogosphere and keep following this 13 Money Resolutions for 2013 series. See you tomorrow for more financial tips!
Have you decided to cut any unnecessary expenses this year?