Cutting Back in Tough Times

No one needs to tell you times are tough.

Too often, Americans just like you, already suffering under the intense strain of rising mortgage costs, consistent credit card debt, mounting medical bills, employment woes, and other blights on your bank accounts, are also looking for ways to further trim shrinking household budgets.

And since the lingering financial downturn has affected all socio-economic sectors of the country—even the upper-middle class and wealthiest Americans—dealing with sudden bills or a loss of income can be even more difficult for people used to a certain lifestyle.

So, whether you're facing extended unemployment, are bankruptcy bound or just trying to salvage your savings, taking a long, hard look at your family’s budget can make a big difference. And even if you haven’t lost your job, in this uncertain economic era it’s important to explore the financial cutbacks you could make in case you were suddenly land unexpectedly aid off.

The good news is, by cutting a few corners, small changes can save you hundreds per month.

Television.
I know, I know. TV is tough to cut. Especially if you rationalize that by watching television you’re staying home and saving money you would normally spend finding entertainment elsewhere. But, if you currently get a lot of channels, you could conceivably drop to a package with fewer bells and whistles (possibly dropping those 50 plus channels that you didn’t watch anyway?). And if you already have a relatively small television setup, consider contacting your provider for negotiations. You’d be amazed at what a satellite or cable company will offer in terms of lower rates when consumers like you threaten to quit them.

Phone and Internet.
Again, negotiating with your provider (or trying to) is always an option. Plus, downgrading your service or eliminating a landline could be all it takes to save you dough for other basic essentials.

Subscriptions.
You can stay informed and save money. If you keep your Internet, why spend more on newspapers, magazines or a book of the month club? The good news is that most reading materials are, at least for now, available for free online.

Fast Food.
That morning latte, breakfast burrito or fast food lunch may seem inexpensive once a day, but those days quickly add up and can become the fastest way to deplete a monthly budget. Consider taking a brown bag and a brewed coffee with you on the go and enjoy the benefits of a better food choices and a fuller wallet.

Groceries.
Not only cut out eating out, but take in the grocery stores many comparable generic brand. Many store-brands are actually produced at the same factories as the name brands—and come at a significant discount.

Clothing.
As a lot of professionals know, dry cleaning can be incredibly expensive. Try to avoid it. But just because your clothes have a little more wear and tear doesn’t meant you can run out and shop for new ones. Resist the prevalent sales permeating the malls in this tough economy—just because it’s a sale doesn’t mean its less expensive than shopping at one.

Not only does planning ahead like this give you an idea of what steps you’ll need to take in case of a financial emergency, it also provides ways to start saving money quickly.

Yet, if cutting corners just isn’t enough to keep you afloat, knowing a qualified bankruptcy attorney can also help you conquer your creditors and face your financial fears, yielding the right kinds of support, information and insights—at a low cost— for a viable and secure future.  The bankruptcy experts at the Law Offices of John T. Orcutt offer a totally FREE debt consultation and now, more than ever, it’s time to take them up on their offer. Just call toll free to +1-833-627-0115, or during the off hours, you can make your own appointment right online at www.billsbills.com. Simply click on the yellow “FREE Consultation Now” button.