Ten ways to cut living expenses

By Darla Youngblood

  • Creates a budget. Track your spending habits and prioritize needs and wants.
  • Payoff debt and become debt free! Dave Ramsey has a 7 baby steps plan to do this.
  • Negotiate bills. Contact your cable, internet and insurance companies to find ways to cut down on your costs.
  • Reduce Entertainment. Cut back on big trips, trips to amusement parks and salon visits.
  • Cut housing costs. Consider down sizing or relocating to a place with a cheaper cost of living.
  • Reduce water and heating costs. Take shorter showers and cut heating down and wear warmer clothing.
  • Reduce utility costs. Check your bank account to see what you paid last month on electricity, water, phone bill, natural gas, etc.
  • Reduce food waste. Plan meals, eat leftovers and include low costs meals in your diet.
  • Reduce transportation. Keep vehicle in good condition to avoid costly repairs.
  • Reduce other expenses. Use coupons only on things you need , make your own greeting cards or digital cards .