Making the journey to mail a letter or package is not always the easiest (or most enjoyable) task, especially given the long lines and often questionable customer service. Whether you're sending a care package or lots of wedding invitations, everything can be done right from your kitchen table — … [Read more...] about How to mail packages from home
Budgeting and Organization
12 ways to save more money, starting now
We hear all the time about how people cannot save any money anymore. The U.S. savings rate has traditionally been abysmal, though it surged to historic levels during the pandemic. In normal times, though, whether it’s by habit, convenience or lack of priorities, many people have a mindset that … [Read more...] about 12 ways to save more money, starting now
6 ways to save up to $500 this month
Are you independently wealthy, or could you use six ways to save $500 this month? You may be looking for ways to free up some cash to pay for college, afford your children's clothes, pay for holiday gifts or just be able to sock away more money for retirement. Recently, we revisited some of our … [Read more...] about 6 ways to save up to $500 this month
How to simplify your life (in 3 easy steps)
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You want to simplify your life, but don't know where or how to start. Maybe you’re thinking about retirement, or you’re looking to change jobs, or the return to work and school seems overwhelming again. Your journey to happiness starts now. When I think of the word “simplify” I am reminded of … [Read more...] about How to simplify your life (in 3 easy steps)
Do a no-spend challenge to see where you can save
If your spending has gotten out of control or you want to cut down on unnecessary expenses, it might be time to embark on a no-spend challenge. Going an entire month without spending beyond necessities can be an eye-opening experience. We think any budget-minded individual should try a no-spend … [Read more...] about Do a no-spend challenge to see where you can save
How to wipe out debt — this time, for good
Many people believe getting out of debt is all about math: spending less than you earn and paying the difference to your debt until it's gone. Jackie Beck, author of The Debt Myth, says that it takes more than just math to get out of debt. It's about changing your money habits and the way you view … [Read more...] about How to wipe out debt — this time, for good
Easy ways to save on school supplies
It's the most exciting time of the year for bargain shoppers who have kids in school (or for anyone who likes cheap office supplies). For some people, school supply shopping is a big, fun, traditional spending spree. It was for my mom and me. But I’ve made this time of year into a big, fun, … [Read more...] about Easy ways to save on school supplies
How to beat inflation and save on almost everything
For the first time in decades, American shoppers are having to deal with inflation — the widespread, general rise in prices for goods and services. Since you're reading this post on a site called Living on the Cheap, you're probably looking for ways to stretch your dollars to cover some of that … [Read more...] about How to beat inflation and save on almost everything
How to set (and stick to) a vacation budget
For Kathy Lopez, it’s all about the spreadsheet. When she started planning a future trip to Europe with her friends, she put every expense into a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet to determine how much the month-long adventure would cost. “We’re going to save a lot of money and planning time on the … [Read more...] about How to set (and stick to) a vacation budget
A $50-a-week meal plan for 1 by shopping at ALDI
Sticker shock used to be synonymous with new cars. Now it's in the grocery store (and everywhere else). Along with gasoline prices, the cost of food has increased across the United States. In fact, the USDA reports that 2021 at-home-food prices increased 3.5% over prices in 2020, well over … [Read more...] about A $50-a-week meal plan for 1 by shopping at ALDI
Downsize your clutter and build wealth
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Are you ready to downsize your home and save money? If so, you'll need to decide which of your current belongings you're going to keep and which need to go. Even if you're not planning on moving, decluttering can save you money by freeing up space and keeping you from buying more storage … [Read more...] about Downsize your clutter and build wealth
Money management strategies for new grads
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Looking to impart some financial wisdom on the soon-to-be college grads in your life? We turned to Scott Gamm, author of More Money, Please: The Financial Secrets You Never Learned in School, to help you do just that. As someone who wrote a book on finances when he was in his twenties, … [Read more...] about Money management strategies for new grads
How to build an emergency fund
No matter how we may plan, stuff happens. Your glasses break. Your car needs work to pass its emissions test. The water heater goes out. Your employer announced layoffs – and you're one of the victims. Unexpected expenses seem to show up more often than windfalls. That's why you need to set aside … [Read more...] about How to build an emergency fund
Should you spend money to save time?
Time and money are both limited resources. How do you decide when to spend money to save time versus when to save money by doing something yourself that takes time? The decision of whether to spend money to save time comes down to time management and the state of your finances. Look … [Read more...] about Should you spend money to save time?
What to do if you’re more frugal than your spouse
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"Did you use the coupon?" I asked my husband this question when he returned from the store. I had a good idea his answer would be some variation of no. Usually he says "I forgot." But that hasn’t stopped me from trying for the past 20 years. My husband doesn’t understand coupons or sales or … [Read more...] about What to do if you’re more frugal than your spouse
