31 Jan
2010

Is your paycheck getting you comfortably from month to month or is it hard to resist that cash loan, payday advance, or credit card at the end of each month? Even if your current paycheck isn’t huge, there are plenty of ways to make it go further:

1) Rethink your living arrangements. Your rent is likely the biggest expense you have. Consider renting to own or look for a smaller place or roommate. Paying less for rent is one of the easiest ways to create more wiggle room in your paycheck.

2) Reconsider your insurance. Pay less for auto insurance and check to make sure you’re not paying double for the same coverage. Make sure you’re covered but refuse to pay a penny more than you need to for premiums.

3) Look for cheaper alternatives. You can shop at consignment shops and avoid new clothes. You can dine out at smaller restaurants rather than larger, more expensive establishments. You can join a car share group rather than drive your own vehicle. There are plenty of ways to slash your living expenses. Just open your eyes up to all the options available.

4) See cash in your junk. Are you living with clutter? Get rid of some old DVDs, CDs, books, and gear you never use. Sell it off and put the proceeds into an emergency fund. You’ll live more comfortably and you’ll have money in an emergency.