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Things are still pretty tight with the economy these days, which means saving money is still as important as ever. Think you’re already using every money-saving trick in the book? We’ll show a few more (painless) ways to keep that cash.

Shopping and Food
•   Do your grocery shopping after you’ve eaten, not when you’re hungry. You’ll be less tempted to reach for items that you really don’t need and can drain your budget.
•    Sign up for customer rewards programs, especially with retailers you shop frequently. For example, gas stations, supermarkets, department stores, and many more offer rewards programs that can net coupons and discounts and save you money.
•    Combine your errands instead of going out every time you need something. You’ll save money on gas and avoid impulse.
•    It’s the small things that can really add up; resist the urge to grab a snack when you get gas or make small purchases here and there. Such purchases are hard to track so you’re likely spending far more than you think.
•    Use coupons! Subscribe to two or three Sunday newspapers and clip the coupons. The initial cost of the papers and the time you spend clipping are well worth the savings it will yield.
•    Before making large purchases, go online and consult consumer reviews to find which brands and models can give you the most bang for your buck.

Bills
•    Avoid late fees by paying your credit card bill on time.
•    Call your credit card company and inquire about a rate reduction. Ask to speak to a supervisor and tell them you will take your business elsewhere if they can’t give you one.
•    Turn the lights off in rooms not in use and adjust the temperature when leaving the house or going to bed to save on your utilities.
•    Save on your electric bill by changing the filters in air conditioners and furnaces to ensure they are running efficiently.

Cars and Gas
•    Make sure to maintain your vehicle to ensure it runs smoother and uses less gas.
•    Minimize idling by avoid driving during rush hour or heavy traffic and going inside instead of sitting in the drive-through.
•   Take public transportation or carpool whenever possible.

Entertainment
•    Try to limit eating out to just once a week.
•    Rent movies instead of going to the movie theater; look into Netflix or Blockbuster online rentals, or even Redbox.
•    Find free, fun things to do in your area such as free parks, outdoor concerts, festicals, farmers' markets, or museums.

Tags: economy, saving cash, saving money