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Budgeting for Change: How to Handle More (or Less) Money
If you read this blog regularly, you already know that I’m a big believer in budgeting. And you also probably know that there are lots of great budgeting ideas out there, from the traditional to the creative. But when it comes to budgeting, it really doesn’t matter what kind of budget you choose. What does matter is that you choose something that you’ll stick to – and that... -
Tired of Traditional Budgets? Try the Proportional Approach
Budgeting is the foundation of healthy personal finances. It helps you set and achieve goals and identify finance habits that need work. If you don’t have enough money coming in, or if too much is going out, budgeting is the all-important red flag that can get you in motion in time to avoid an all-out disaster. But while most people agree budgets are important in theory, it can... -
Frugal Living: New Ways to Save
Ever get the feeling that there aren’t any new ideas out there when it comes to frugal living and budgeting? Now, don’t get me wrong. I enjoy reading and writing about just about everything finance-related – but sometimes I feel like I’ve heard every tip out there. Every savings and frugal living blog (mine included!) will tell you that things like shopping with a grocery list can help you... -
House Poor? Here are a Few Tips
Home ownership has long been considered a key component of the “American dream.” But for many folks, the reality of owning a home has been a rude awakening. Instead of enjoying the security and sense of well-being that often accompanies buying a home, these folks are struggling to keep up with too-high mortgage payments that leave them basically broke every month. These people aren’t in a position to save... -
Creating a Budget? Avoid These Common Mistakes
For the first few days, budgeting can be sort of fun: You make a plan and sort your day-to-day expenses into neat little categories. You review your fixed expenses, and you decide how much you’ll spend on things like groceries and the occasional nice dinner. You happily imagine how much extra cash you’ll be able to sock away in savings or how quickly you’ll be able to knock down... -
9 Money-Saving Tips to Try This Week
Trying to save a little extra money this week? Searching for easy ways to curb excess spending? Want to make your next paycheck last a little longer? Well, look no further. This week, I’m sharing some of my favorite ways to save money and cut spending. The best part? Every item on this list is quick and easy – you don’t have to block out an entire Sunday afternoon... -
Three Creative Budget Ideas: Waterfalls, Envelopes, and Nicknamed Checking Accounts
Budgeting isn’t for everyone. Yes, you read that right. But let me explain. What I really mean is, the standard budget – as in, the fussy, spreadsheet-style, track-every-penny type of budget – doesn’t work for everyone. Fortunately, there are several budget options out there, and I try to make a point to keep up with the latest money-management and debt-repayment strategies. Whether your money management plan is focused on... -
Financial Red Flags: Signs Your Finances are in Trouble
Financial problems rarely happen overnight. In fact, if you know what to look for, you can spot money problems far before they get out of control. Are your finances on the right track, or are they starting to veer off course? Here are five red flags that might mean you’re headed for trouble: You don’t have savings and/or an emergency fund. This is a big one. Most financial... -
Save on Everything: How to Get the Stuff You Need for Less
Maybe your new year’s resolution was to shop smarter or save more money. Maybe you’re planning a major 2013 budget overhaul. Or maybe you’re just looking for a few ways to make your hard-earned money stretch a little further this year. January is a great time to set saving and spending goals, and I’m sharing my favorite tips for frugal living all year long. Want to save money... -
Fun and Frugal Holiday Parties
The holiday season is here, and that means one thing: Parties. Chances are, you’re planning at least one holiday-themed party this year – and if you’re like most folks, you’re looking for a way to cut costs – without cutting the fun. No worries. Whether you’re planning a casual get-together for the gang from work or a fancy New Year’s Eve bash, there’s a way to do it...