Whether unexpectedly forced upon you or pre-planned, losing a source of income can be very scary. However, there are a few steps that you can take while you’re getting back on your feet to ease the blow. Using these 6 tips, you can save money without sacrificing your comfort and joy in the process.
Cancel Unused or Unnecessary Memberships
Cancel your gym membership and take advantage of free fitness classes via YouTube or free live streams. Consider getting rid of cable and instead utilizing lower-priced and free trials for streaming apps. Go through and make a list of all the subscriptions and memberships you are currently paying for and determine which ones you can cut.
Strategically Plan Out Your Meals
Try cooking more at home. There are tons of free recipes on the world wide web, as well as bulk family meal planning resources to help you navigate this change. Strategically planning your meals out for the week or month will make it easier to purchase only the necessary ingredients as well as foods that you can freeze or store on the shelves for long periods of time. For example, you may want to incorporate more soups or crockpot recipes in your meal plan. Keep an eye out for meals that you can safely make stretch, and don’t be afraid to prep your food and pop it in the freezer to cook later.
Contact Debt Collectors
Contact debt collectors to see if they offer any programs to assist those suffering from job loss. You may be surprised that many bill collectors are willing to work with you during this time. If possible, set up payment arrangements to help stretch your money. Ask for deferment on your mortgage and car loan. Finally, if you own more than one car, consider if you can use just one, or none at all. If so, you can ask the insurance company to place your unused car in storage status. This will save you money but removes the collision coverage.
Utilize Cash Back Apps
Of course, you won’t be able to halt all purchases during this time. However, when you do shop, take advantage of cashback opportunities. Apps such as Rakuten and Wikibuy make it easy for you to put money back into your pockets while you shop. If you have a credit card that offers cash back rewards, now is a good time to start using it.
Start Couponing
Stay in the loop with all the deals retailers and restaurants are offering by downloading the Krazy Coupon Lady app. Receive notifications when there are special offers and discounts for products and services you need. Additionally, take advantage of coupons that come through snail mail and your email inbox. There is no better time than now to put those coupons to use.
Find Creative Ways to Treat Yourself at Home
Continue to treat yourself! Besides, you probably need the pick-me-up now more than ever. However, look into creative ways to treat yourself on a budget. Maybe have a spa day at home with a nice bubble bath, some candles, and relaxing music. Bake a tasty treat. Have a DIY Date night with your spouse after you put the kids to bed. The possibilities are endless, and you don’t have to spend a ton of money to give yourself a little treat to look forward to.
It’s OK to Ask for Help
If you are experiencing financial hardship, do not be afraid to reach out for help. Look up different resources in your community to help you navigate these challenging times. There may be tons of resources right in front of you that may have never even thought of. A little research can go a long way.
You are not alone, and this is a challenge that can be overcome. Keep your head up, and do what you can to move forward.
Author: Briana Marie
Briana Marie is a yoga-obsessed Mom of 2 vibrant young girls. She has a BA in Communications and makes a living as a freelance writer, blogger, and owner/lead copywriter at Tanzek Media.When she is not typing away on the computer, she loves to spend time indulging in some of her favorite creative outlets and enjoying the great outdoors. Briana is a huge advocate for “freeing your inner child,” and encourages her fellow Moms to make stress-free FUN a priority in their lives.Briana’s blog Major League Mommy focuses on effective Parenting Made Fun. You can follow her journey on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest.
Briana Marie is a yoga-obsessed Mom of 2 vibrant young girls. She has a BA in Communications and makes a living as a freelance writer, blogger, and owner/lead copywriter at Tanzek Media.When she is not typing away on the computer, she loves to spend time indulging in some of her favorite creative outlets and enjoying the great outdoors. Briana is a huge advocate for “freeing your inner child,” and encourages her fellow Moms to make stress-free FUN a priority in their lives.Briana’s blog Major League Mommy focuses on effective Parenting Made Fun. You can follow her journey on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest.
Photographer:
Briana Marie is a yoga-obsessed Mom of 2 vibrant young girls. She has a BA in Communications and makes a living as a freelance writer, blogger, and owner/lead copywriter at Tanzek Media.When she is not typing away on the computer, she loves to spend time indulging in some of her favorite creative outlets and enjoying the great outdoors. Briana is a huge advocate for “freeing your inner child,” and encourages her fellow Moms to make stress-free FUN a priority in their lives.Briana’s blog Major League Mommy focuses on effective Parenting Made Fun. You can follow her journey on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest.
