Monday, September 22, 2008

How to Improve Your Finances in Your Twenties

Let's face it. After college graduation, many people in twenty years are strapped for cash. Student loans, car payments, rent and food bills can quickly drain a bank account or portfolio. However, there is no need to declare bankruptcy or go into massive credit card debt. Through the use of a few smart, money-saving strategies, nearly everyone can successfully manage a budget, no matter how small.

Do not spend money you do not have. While it may seem easy to use credit cards to pay for needs such as food or clothing, high interest rates can double or triple the initial cost of a few cans of chicken noodle soup. Do not spend money you do not really have. Avoid using credit cards to the maximum extent possible, unless you are sure you can pay the bill next month.

Keep track of your expenses. Studies show that diet to lose sight of their daily food intake lose twice as much weight as those who do not. Why? If you are forced to write a splurge, the least likely to do so. The same applies to finance. If you have to record every dollar that comes out of his pocket, which are less likely to buy things they do not really need.

Take advantage of store coupons and offers weekly. Sign up for your grocery store's weekly pamphlet. Keep an eye for discounts or promotions. Just make sure you buy only what you need. Do not buy something that is unlikely to use simply because it is cheap.

Under your heating or air conditioning bills. During the summer, keep your thermostat at 75 degrees. During the winter, keeping your house or apartment temperature at 63 degrees can reduce your gas, heating and air conditioning bills.

Pay their loans as much as you can. Do not postpone your student loan or credit card payments. The interest rate will only continue to grow. If their accounts are in good standing, you can often call their loan company and sign for a lower rate. Some companies also offer a reduced interest rate if you enroll in the proposed automatic.

Eat out less often. Americans spend 40% of their food bills in restaurants. By simply go out to dinner once a week, you can save up to $ 60, the average cost of a cell phone bill. Bring your lunch to work instead of ordering pizza every day.

Buying a car from gas that is efficient. An SUV may look good, but if you are young, single and in his 20s, you probably do not need it. Gas prices are high, and buy a smaller, more fuel efficient car to save large amounts of cash in the long term.

Take advantage of garage sales and stores of savings. Many of the items that contain these types of stores are virtually new and unused. You can buy clothes, tableware and furniture for up to 75% off the original price.

Learning to spend wisely is a habit that takes planning and discipline. Although you may have to suffer through low-income jobs and staggering debt in 20 years, can still be financially stable and responsible.

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