Retirement can be expensive. Transitioning from a steady income to living on a fixed one can be difficult. If you are nearing or currently in retirement there are some ways to stay within budget and reduce your spending. Here are some tips to help reduce your retirement expenses: Have a Budget The most important and crucial first step is to create and stay within a budget. Over the course of a few months track and review all of your spending habits. Track things like food, housing, utilities, entertainment, etc. and create categories of spending. Analyze how you are spending money and if needed make adjustments to stay within budget. Manage Your Costs If you need to reduce your spending there are some easy ways to accomplish that. Try using coupons, shopping for store brands and even buying in bulk. If you have too much of a bulk item try splitting with a friend. Look for free entertainment in your area at the local library or senior center. Take advantage of shopping senior discounts. Many stores have certain days or hours when seniors receive a special shopping discount. It may also be possible to lower household costs such as electricity, and water by negotiating with your utility company. They may even offer a senior citizens or income discount. Talk to family members about family cell phone plan to help reduce costs too. Manage Your Medication Health care costs are a big concern for seniors. Talk with your health care provider about any generic medications available. Generic medications are often much less expensive. Don’t be afraid to shop around, prescription and medicine prices are not the same at every store. Most of all continuously review your budget and spending to make sure you are staying on track.]]>
Cutting Holiday Entertaining Costs
Holiday hosting can be fun but it can also wreak havoc on your bank account. Some studies have shown that holiday revelers plan to spend an average of $1,100 on food, gifts, and entertainment during the season. There are ways to scale back the costs of holiday entertaining without losing any of the cheer: • Have a plan – Decide what events you will be hosting and attending. Once you have figured this out make a list of exactly what you will need to provide. To get an idea of how much things will cost look through your old bank statements to get a rough figure on how much you spent in the past. • Create a budget – Create a budget for what you can realistically afford and don’t forget to include incidentals like host/hostess gifts. If you’re hosting the holiday party this year, understanding the true cost of things will help you decide whether to throw a smaller intimate dinner party or a big soiree. • Be creative in cutting costs – Hosting doesn’t have to break the bank, consider having a potluck dinner. If you are a guest and searching for a gift to bring the host, consider making a gift or bringing an inexpensive addition to the party table. • Start saving now – Every bit counts so if you don’t have a lot of money to save, start small, and it will add up. Check the store flyers for deals and coupons and don’t forget to use your grocery store savings cards.]]>