subject: Building Society Money Saving Tips [print this page] Building Society Money Saving Tips Building Society Money Saving Tips
These days, everyone's wallet is feeling a little strained. Petrol prices, VAT, utilities, many things that we rely on in our day-to-day lives have gone up in price while, let's face it, only a few lucky ones have received a pay increase to accommodate.
However, there are steps you can take and changes you can make to make your money stretch that little bit further. Here are just a few tips.
Go through your bank statement with a fine tooth comb and look for any direct debits for services that you no longer require. Are you paying for gym membership when you don't go? Cancel it! Paying in to a lottery syndicate but never winning? Cancel it!
Then, work out what your income is against your expenses. It might be painful, but if you've got an accurate idea of how much money you have spare each month, then you'll be far more cautious when it comes to spending. At the risk of sounding a bit anal, perhaps even work out a daily allowance to keep you on track.
Are you paying a bank account charge for the privilege of having a slightly larger overdraft? Do you need this? You could be saving 25 a month by simply changing your bank account.
For those of you with savings - or who, by following these tips can start to put a little away each month - shop around for the best deals. Bank or building society savings rates vary and there are some good deals to be had. Compare online or check out the money pages of your newspaper.
If you're paying off a credit card debt, many financial retailers offer balance transfers at zero per cent interest for 12 months, so sign up with a new card company and watch your money go toward paying off the balance. After that, transfer it to another card. Of course, any financial enterprise ought to be properly researched. Compare deals, read up on offers and check the small print.
You know those boxes in the garage filled with records/gym equipment/baby clothes/magazines etc.? The items you don't use but can't bear to give to charity? Why not auction them off? One look at eBay will demonstrate that people buy anything. Look at the kinds of things being sold on the site and why not post some of your own items?
It won't make you a millionaire, but a tenner for that unworn pair of boots isn't bad. Just factor in eBay's minimal commission and postage costs.
Lastly but by no means least - make your own lunch. Buying a sandwich or sushi every day can amount to much more than you realise. A sandwich and a drink costs around 3.00? You could be looking at over 300 every month. That's 3,600 a year! Buy a nice loaf of bread and make your own.
