Feeling Nickel and Dimed?

Food costs more. Gas costs more. Utilities cost more. Is there anything that hasn't gone up in price recently? It sure doesn't seem like it. Fortunately, inflated prices don't have to leave you and your bank account feeling deflated.

Set aside some time this week to bring your budget up to date (yes, that means adding in those newer, uglier figures that you don't want to think about). Then, brainstorm ways to cover them. Are there budget items that you can eliminate or scale back on? Is it time to shop around for a better deal on car insurance/phone service/cable? Can you think of ways to bring in extra money?

Keeping working on those numbers until they crunch in your favor. Then, get back to banking those nickels, dimes and dollars too.

Budgeting Resources:

• Build-a-Budget Worksheet
• Monthly Spending Worksheet
• Develop a Monthly Spending Plan
• Cut Back on Extras

Inflation Fighters:

• Simple Ways to Slash Your Grocery Prices
• Lower Your Electric Bill
• Advanced Couponing Strategies
• Lower Your Phone Bill
• Save Money on Your Cell Phone Bill