According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the cost of raising a child can be an estimated $200,000... not including the price of college. With those kinds of expenses, it behooves you to cut your costs wherever you can. Most people don't realize how very simple saving a buck can be. Common sense equals common cents. Here are a few helpful hints for spending less and putting more in your pocket. When it comes to shopping online, always do a search for promotional codes or coupons. Most sites offer some sort of discount whether it's a percentage off or a discount on shipping. Before you check out online, be sure to Google the site's name, along with coupons or discounts. The same goes for shopping offline. Check out the local paper and browse for coupons that you can use when shopping. Also keep an eye on grocery store ads. Set your sights on BOGO (buy one get one free) offers. Take advantage of these specials when they're available. Incorporate meatless Mondays into your menu.
Meats and poultry are usually the most expensive staples. So when you can go vegetarian, do it. Skip the meat a few times a week and you'll end up saving upwards of $25 a week (or $1,200 a year). When you're booking a trip, become a negotiator. Go for the best rates with airlines, hotels or car rentals. If you plan on dining out, look for buy one, get one free deals or plan your excursions when the early bird specials are on. Another major cost for people is medical expenses. When you receive medical bills, contact the billing department and try to talk them down. Some facilities will trim your bill if you offer to pay in full. As for insurance, consider raising deductibles so that you pay a lower monthly amount. Before making a major purchase - like a swingset, saw or sewing machine - check eBay or craigslist.org for great deals on barely used goods. The moral of the story is that you can increase your bottom line by simply remembering that you shouldn't pay full price for anything.