Money is Floating All Around Us

In these hard economic times, everyone is looking for ways to make money or to stretch their dollars. It may seem impossible when your budget is so tight, but there are many simple ways to make money and reduce your monthly expenses.

You can save money on your health insurance and life insurance by doing a few things differently. If you smoke, quit. Though it isn't easy, it will reduce your health insurance rates and your life insurance premium and payout. In addition to saving on insurance, quitting smoking will put a lot of money back in your pocket. A moderate smoking habit costs over $2,000 per year. That's about $20,000 for every decade spent smoking. Just think what you could do with an extra $2,000 this year!

Small changes at the grocery store and while shopping for clothes and necessities can help you save too. Coupons may seem like a passing idea, but there are still many valuable coupons found in weekly newspapers, magazines, and on line. Many stores offer discount coupons if you sign up for their online newsletters. Simple things like making a list before you shop, or shopping only during sales can put money back in your pocket too. Or have weekly BOGO (buy one, get one) deals emailed to you so you can shop where the discount are.

If you are single, consider getting a roommate to help with the rent or mortgage. A roommate can also help share the food bill and other household expenses. If you are a college student, consider living at home or off campus to save on room and board.

Buying used items can also help you save money. With bartering websites like e-bay, Craigslist and Freecycle you can find good deals on used items or even exchange something you have for something you need. Used clothing stores are a good place to shop especially for kids clothing. You can get together with other families you know and exchange clothing as your kids grow.

Some money saving ideas may take an investment at first, but will pay off in the end. If your job does not have an advancement potential, you can go back to college to increase your skills or start a new career altogether. Many colleges offer night courses or online classes that you can fit into your schedule. In the competitive job market we live in having additional skills and education can make the difference. The investment will pay off in the end, if it helps you to get a higher paying job.

Having a reliable car doesn't mean having an overwhelming car payment. Buying a used car is much more economical then trying to take on a car payment for a brand new car. Or even buy a running car for under $1,000 and a book for that car for $20, and you would be getting rid of having car payments all together. Buying a used car can also save you money on some insurance costs. And speaking of insurance, make sure you shop around about every six months for new insurance quotes to make sure you are still getting the best deal.

By doing some or all of these simple things you can save money and stretch your dollar. Pretty soon it will seem like money is floating all around you.