by T.Yeap

Created on: August 14, 2009   Last Updated: August 17, 2009

During the economy slow down and unemployment rates are at its highest, everyone wanted to know how to stretch their dollar and make their money last longer. There's many ways to slash your expenses and you might be able to save some money at the end. The most common categories of our spending are 1) Groceries/Dining, 2) Car Expenses, 3) Entertainment, 4) Rent/Mortgages, 5)Utilities, 6) Personal Spending and we will be able to save money without sacrificing the quality of living that we are used to.

GROCERY/ DINING

Take advantage of your Sunday newspaper coupon offer. Most people are able to save about $10-$15 per month on the groceries bill if they use the coupon correctly. Also, pay attention of the weekly deals/special that your local grocery stores offered. In addition, before you start your grocery shopping, make a list of the things you need in your kitchen and try to avoid unnecessary spending. You can also try to choose store brand products that are cheaper if you really want to stretch your money even further. (Yearly Savings ~ $120)

Most working Americans spends an average of $30 on their lunch per week but if you pack your own lunches to work, you will be able to save $15/week and small amount of money adds up at the end. Try to limit dining out during dinner to about once or twice a month. Making your own meals at home where you would normally go out and eat will save you about $25-$50/month depending on how frequently you visit the restaurant and fast food chain. (Yearly Savings ~ 750)

CAR EXPENSES

Go visit Geico or Progressive website where they provide you the free quotes of your insurance and their competitor prices. Pick the one that you feel most valuable to you. You can also increase your deductibles to $1000 and reduce the premium price you have to pay each month. We all have car that needs to be re-fuel every so often. Try to fill up your car during morning hours where the temperature is cooler because the gasoline molecules condensed when it's cold and you get more for your buck compared to warmer temperature. (Yearly Savings ~ $100-$200)

ENTERTAINMENT

Most people has cable or satellite dish in their house or apartment. If you are short on cash and doesn't have at least a 6 months emergency funds in placed. I'm sure you can reduce your cable and satellite dish package to the most basic where you can afford. You have to remember money before things/possession. If you like to go to movie theater, try to go at the afternoon hours where

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