Wednesday, December 19, 2012

ABC’s of Saving Money on Family Budgets




A is for attitude! If you think you can, you can. And if you think you can’t, you’re right!
B is for breastfeeding. Where possible breastfeeding will save you money on formula, bottles & accessories.
C is for credit cards.  Pay off your balance when possible or choose cards with low interest rates.
D is for debt. Shopping around for a mortgage is worth it a good interest rate can make a huge difference.
E is for Ebay.  Sell and purchase used “baby” gear on ebay, craigslist or through social media.
F is for family.  Ask your family to get on board with you to support your financial plan.
G is for gifts.  Plan ahead for birthday and holiday gifts.  Put your talents to use and make gifts when you can.
H is for home-cooked. Take your lunch to work and make dinners at home.
I is for insurance. Plan for insurance needs for illness, accident, death, home and auto and shop around. 
J is for junk.  You can make homemade toys with “junk” from around your house.
K is for keeps.  Make financial plan and budget and keep with it. Do not make exceptions.
L is for love.  When you love something you take care of it.  Love your financial plan and take care of it.
M is for medical.  Take advantage of pre-tax opportunities through your employers. (cafeteria and HSA plans)
N is for negotiate. Don’t be afraid to negotiate prices on your purchases.
O is for options.  Look into different options for debt and financial growth. 
P is for paying.  Paying your bills on time can help you save on late fees and interest charges.
Q is for questions.  Ask a financial planner for help managing your expenses and investments.
R is for rates.  Monitor your credit card rates as they are subject to change.
S is for sales.  Just because something is on sale doesn’t mean you need it. 
T is for taxes.  Ask your tax professional for the best ways to save money on your taxes.
U is for utilities.  Turn off the lights when you are not using them.
V is for vested.  Stay with the same company long enough to be vested in the retirement plan.
W is for will.  Speak to an attorney about writing a will to provide a financial plan for your children.
X is for X.  Check off your debts as you pay them off and give yourself a pat on the back for working hard.
Y is for you.  You determine wants vs. needs for your family and make money choices based on your decision.
Z is for ZZZZZs.  When possible sleep on major financial decisions before acting.

This information is meant for entertainment purposes and general advice.  Financial planning best happens when looking at individual circumstances.  Please seek the advice of a financial professional before acting on this information.  

Products and books I have used for family financial planning: