2009 is almost here and it’s time to wipe your slate clean, start over and set goals and resolutions for the New Year. One resolution that should be at the top of everyone’s list is to save money and stick to a budget in 2009. Now that the economy is in a full-blown recession it is important to plan ahead and stay on track with your money.
CouponChief.com offers these easy tips to stay on budget in 2009:
- Write down your budget goals: It has been proven that people who write down their goals are much more likely to achieve them. Spend some time at the beginning of the year planning a monthly budget. If there is a month where you know you will spend more money, perhaps due to an important birthday or vacation, be sure to spend less in a different month.
- Find a “Budget Buddy”: After you have written down your budget goals for 2009 share them with a Budget Buddy. Encourage them to share their budget as well so you can hold each other accountable. A Budget Buddy can be anyone from a spouse to a trusted friend. At the end of each month, check in with your Budget Buddy and tell them if you have stayed on track. If you are not comfortable sharing actual numbers, you can share percentages, for example, “I was under budget by 4% this month.” By working together and keeping each other in check, you will be more likely to stay on course.
- Write out a list before you shop: Before heading to the mall write out a list of items you need to purchase and the stores you need to visit to buy these products. Making a list of exactly what you need before you shop is a great way to keep your spending in check and prevent impulse purchases. Train yourself to NOT buy anything that’s not on your list. You will also be able to shop more quickly by going to only the stores you need to visit, saving money and valuable time.
- Don’t buy anything at full price unless it’s absolutely necessary: With the current economy and slowdown in consumer spending, retailers are doing everything in their power to get you to open your wallet by offering great deals and promotions. Take the time to comparison shop before you make a purchase. Use the internet to research prices before you head to the store so you know you are getting the best deal out there. With so many discounts and promotions, there is no reason to pay full price.
- Clip coupons and use online coupon codes: Along with cutting back prices, more and more retailers are offering coupons and online discount codes. There are several ways to find these coupons including searching in the Sunday paper, signing up for email newsletters from your favorite retailers and searching online coupon sites.
The start of the New Year is a great motivator to get your spending in check. Be sure to check out CouponChief.com before making any online purchases for the best discount codes that will help you stay on budget through the year.
By Gary on 12/22/08 in Columns, CouponChief, Editor Picks, Money
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