4 Ways to Save More $ in 2016

One of the top New Year's resolutions is always "Save more, spend less". No big surprise there. We've posted other articles covering ways to save money, but here are a few new ideas. Here are 4 tips that have been proven to help you accomplish your resolution of saving more and spending less.

1) CUT THE CABLE

Think about it, if you can cut your cable bill for just one year, how much would you be able to add to your emergency savings fund in 2016? Many people have cell phones with internet, so cutting out cable would not necessarily limit either your internet access or your communication tool, since you would still have a phone.

In its place you could utilize Netflix or even Red Box for your entertainment pleasure. A couple of flicks a week would still be pretty cheap and nowhere near the amount you would be spending on a monthly cable or satellite bill.

2) EAT MORE HOME COOKED MEALS

Eating on the go is a go to move for many of us. It is quick and convenient. It can often times even be cheap. Or can it be cheap? Don't let fast food or bargain buffet restaurants fool you. Even spending just $5 a day is expensive compared to how little you would be spending if you were to simply bring your lunch to work. Search the internet for recipes and have fun with great ideas for home cooked lunches and dinners. Not to mention the quality family time you can have eating dinner together.

3) SLASH YOUR ELECTRICITY BILL

There are many ways you can cut down the costs on your utilities, including your elctricity bill. One way is to find out if your energy provider offers down time discounts. For example, it may be cheaper to run your washing machine on Saturdays or in the evening rather than during the day.

Also, contact your local electric company and find out if they have an audit program. If they do, you can request a free utility audit to discover ways that you can cut down costs.

4) TREAT YOUR SAVINGS LIKE A BILL

Would you skip your cell phone bill for a couple months? How about your car payment, would you skip that payment for a few months? If you answered no, then why would you skip funding your emergency savings?

Treat your savings account just like any other bill. Decide how much your "bill" is going to be. A good way to do this is to figure out how much you want in your savings account and by when. For example, if your goal is to have $3000.00 in the fund by 2017, then you divide $3000.00 by 12 months and that's $250.00 per month you should "pay" into your savings account. Your figure may be more or less depending on your current economic situation.

Follow these tips and 2016 will see your "piggy bank" grow!