January 13, 2010

Going To College On A Grant

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I’m not only a stay at home mom but I’m also a full time college student. My husband works, but with three children college would not be an option for me without financial assistance. Luckily, I qualify for grants and attend school free of charge. I tell moms all the time, if this frugal (broke) mom can do it so can you!

How To Apply For Financial Aid

The first step for anyone wishing to go to school is to fill out a Free Application For Federal Student Aid, also known as FAFSA. Pick one up from a local school or apply online at www.fafsfa.ed.gov.

After your FAFSA has been reviewed you will receive a magic number back called an EFC. This EFC is your “expected family contribution”, it’s what the computer thinks your family should be able to afford to spend on your education. This number will be forwarded to the colleges you selected on your FAFSA, who will in return contact you before the semester starts letting you know what financial aid you qualified for.

Also, visit your school’s financial aid office for additional grant and scholarship opportunities. Some schools even give grants to women who have been out of the work force for x numbers of years. You never know until you ask.

Make Your Financial Aid Stretch

By being smart with your financial aid, you can make your money go farther. Choose a cheaper two year junior college over a $30,000+ per year four year college. Opt for used or rented textbooks over new to save 50-70%. Also, skip all the un-needed extras like the overpriced bags and t-shirts with the school logo on the front. Every dime you save now can get you ahead in your future educational quest.

What To Do With Leftover Financial Aid Money

I attend an unbelievable cheap local two year school, and get a check back each semester for my un-used portion of my financial aid. While it is tempting to go and blow this money on whatever the latest “got to have” item is at the moment, the more frugal thing to do is to save it for a rainy day.

Since I attend classes online I rely on my computer. If it breaks I am in big trouble. Saving this money for a new computer when I need it seems like the best option for me. For you, it might be saving your leftover grant money for your future educational needs or starting a college fund for your child.

If you’ve always wanted to go to college but never had the money a grant could make all your college dreams come true. Apply by filling out a FAFSA and contacting your financial aid office. If you get approve for aid, make your money stretch and save what’s left over for a rainy day.

If you have any questions about grants, applying, or college life as a mom feel free to ask! I love answering questions and helping other parents out. If you have any tips or just want to say hello feel free to leave a comment!

 

January 10, 2010

Save Money By Skipping The Gym

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At some point or another you will consider a membership to the gym. You’ll want to lose weight, firm up, or just be healthier. Before signing that gym membership contract, weigh the pros and cons. You can save a lot of money by skipping the gym and working out at home!

First off, how much would a gym membership cost you? Thirty bucks a month is about average with a $100 deposit. Most gyms require a 1 year contract, and at $30 a month that’s $360. Ask yourself if you can afford to a gym membership.

Would you get your money’s worth? Most people will go for the first two weeks, and then slowly bring their gym visits to a halt. Most gyms will not give you a refund or cancel your membership if you change your mind. If you think you can just stop payment, it’s not that simple. Gyms will report the negative activity on your credit report and turn you over to a collections agency.

What activity in particular do you plan on doing at the gym? Running on a treadmill? Running outside is free, or you can pick up a used treadmill online and at garage sales for around $100. Do you plan to lift weights? Looks for items around the house you can lift. A galloon of milk weighs around 8 pounds, borrow your milk from the fridge and get to lifting! If you plan to swim at the gym, look for a community pool first. Most pools have a pass you can use for a year, or a month, that is a lot less than a gym membership.

If you want a gym membership for the exercise classes consider a DVD instead. Your local library should have a wide selection of exercise DVDs, or pick them up used when you find them at thrift shops and garage sales. When you get tired of them swap them with a friends or sell them online.

Do you need the emotional support a gym would offer? Perhaps you’re afraid you won’t be able to meet your health goals unless you are held accountable. Consider making a weight loss pact with a friend or co-worker. You can also join one of the millions of online weight loss groups that will offer you support, advice, and more.

A gym membership is a big commitment that you don’t have to make. If you can afford the costs, and know you will get your money’s worth, then sign on the dotted line. On the other hand, if you could use $360 towards your bills and can work out at home, you should probably wait on that membership.

 

January 5, 2010

Sometimes More Actually Costs Less

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Sales are commonly worded “2 for $x.xx” or “buy 10 or more and pay $x.xx”. Your first though may be “I don’t need ten of those” and you end up buying one. I am often guilty of not looking at the big picture, but have improved on this as of lately.

In December I had a credit at the online store where I purchased my personalized photo holiday cards. If I bought 1-9 cards the price was $1.87 per card. If I bought 10 or more cards the price went down to $1.64. I only needed 9 cards and put 9 in my cart, for a total of $16.83. Just for fun I added a tenth card to my cart to see what would happen to my total. It went down to $16.40! 43 cents savings may not seem like much to brag about, but keep in mind that I got an additional card too.

Another example is my recent trip to Walgreens. I went in and found kids cough medicine 2/$5. I just needed one bottle so that’s all I took up to the register. My one bottle rang up for $4.83. Adding a second bottle double what I took home and only cast a few cents more. Always read the small print to see if you are required to buy a second (or in some cases third) item to qualify for the sale price.

I am noticing volume discounts a lot more often now. If you end up spending less out of pocket why not take advantage of the extra items? Some people may argue that they don’t need the extra items and don’t have anywhere to put extra stuff. My reply is that if it saves you money, there is always room somewhere for what you will use in the near future. Even if you have to store your excessively purchased craft supplies under your bed. Also, just because you don’t want an extra doesn’t mean you can’t give that second bottle of .17 cough medicine to your neighbor.

Next time you buy and are offered a volume discount do the math. Use the calculator on your phone or figure it up in your head. The savings may surprise you! Please feel free to leave any comments you may have.

 

January 1, 2010

Save Money By Ordering Free Stuff Online

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One of my favorite perks of the internet is the mass amount of freebies I can order. When I’m in the mood and have a few minutes, I type “free samples”, “freebies”, or “free ___” into my search bar. Each time I am able to find get free stuff that I haven’t ordered before.

What do I do with my freebies? I let them save me money and try new products for free. I don’t waste money on buying a bottle of shampoo I might not like, instead I request a sample first from the manufacturer and make sure I will be satisfied.

At the end of the month when your budget is empty free samples come in handy. I save my free cereal samples and snack samples for when we run out of the regular stuff. I order samples of toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, and toiletries that come in handy when I need to wait until payday to make a purchase. This may sound nuts to you, but samples allow me to stay within budget for the month, put off purchases until needed items go on sale, and get lots of mail!

What kind of freebies are available? All kinds!

  • -Cosmetics
  • -Toothpaste, shampoo, dental floss, diapers, and other toiletries
  • -Cereal, dried boxed foods, candies, and non perishable items
  • -Office supplies, calendars, pens, stickers, postcards, stationary
  • -Pet foods and supplies
  • -Things you don’t really need (but are still fun) like key chains, magazines, books, ebooks, cookbooks, posters, kids stuff, and other goodies.

One of my favorite freebies was from Betty Crocker and House Party. I signed up through the House Party website to host a Betty Crocker party and received 10 Betty Crocker spoons, 10 fridge grocery pads, a cookie recipe book, 2 packages of cookie mix, a $10 gift card for baking supplies, a Betty Crocker apron, and more. That was all in one box, and on the same day I received a HUGE freebie package from Aveeno Baby and Bzzz.

The next time you have a few minutes (or an hour as freebies are addictive), search for freebies that would allow you to save a little money. Find websites for your favorite products and request a sample by email or phone. You may be surprised at the goodies that will come your way. As always leave a comment if you have a spare moment!

 

December 28, 2009

Shop Christmas Clearance To Save Money

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That’s right, now is the time to buy holiday items and decorations you will need next year. If you get your items at the right price it will be more than worth storing them in the closet for a year. Buying now can save you big bucks, and is one of my favorite frugal tips.

Wrapping paper is one of the main items to look for as you fight the after Christmas crowds. You use a lot of it wrapping all those gifts, and at $2 or more a roll you end up spending more than you realize. Most stores have their holiday merchandise marked down 50% and soon you’ll be able to get items 75-90% off. You can afford the pricey $5 wrapping paper at 90% off, that’s only .50!

Sweaters and jackets should be going on sale now also. Most people have already bought what they need this year and stores know that. If you find a super cheap jacket don’t be afraid to buy it now and save it.

Tree trimmings can be found at below bargain prices. Stores know that consumers aren’t going to pay full price, and if they don’t practically give their tree decorations away consumers won’t buy them.

Steer clear of edible items unless you plan to eat them soon. Cookies and fruit cake will spoil before next year. If you buy Christmas themed foods enjoy them now.

Merchandise that was geared to be holiday gifts will also go on clearance. Pick up inexpensive marked down items and use them as birthday gifts throughout the year. Stores got in way to many foot warmers and fleece throws that would make nice non-holiday presents.

If it’s a good deal and will save you money the buy. Don’t buy stuff just because it’s on sale. Only buy items that will save you money in the long run. It’s easy to get sucked in with a giant red clearance sticker. Ask yourself if the item is even worth the sale price. Got a comment, question, or tips? Leave a comment! We love to read them!

 

December 26, 2009

2010 New Year Resolutions

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With 2010 less than a week away New Year’s Resolutions may be on your mind. What are your goals for the new year? Some of the most common resolutions are to save more, spend less, be more frugal, lose weight, get a better job, get out of debt, and spend more time with the family. You may have one or two of those items on your list or they may all be on your list.

When starting off the new year with your new goals the first step is to gather support. If you want to lose weight you may need to join an online support group, or find a friend who wants to lose weight right along with you. When it comes to spending less you may only need Wwhow to point you to your local deals.

Some goals may come hand in hand with other goals. Spending less may allow you to save more and/or get out of debt. My main goal this year is to spend no more than $200 a month on groceries for my family of 5. We were spending close to $600 a month including fast food and I have been able to cut it down to $300-400 a month including fast food. I want to take it a step farther and cut it down to my new goal of $200 a month. I have it worked out to $40 a week, with an additional $40 a month to cover school lunches for my 6 year old and to allow a cushion in case I slightly go over. Sounds crazy right? Feel free to follow along with my on my grocery blog.

No matter what your goals are this year, here are some simple tips that will help you save money, and hopefully allow you to reach your new goals:

  • -Clip coupons and comparison shop (.50 coupons add up fast!)
  • -Drive less, only run errands when you have several close by stops to make
  • -Take your lunch instead of eating out
  • -Downgrade your cable
  • -Switch to a cheaper phone plan
  • -Set your thermostat a few degrees cooler to save heating costs
  • -Use less of everything (cut out 1 can drink a day and you’ll have 7 extra a week)
  • -Re-use what you can (print on 2 side of the paper instead of 1)

Hopefully you’ll be able to keep your 2010 goals. Hopefully I will too. You still have a few days, so make a plan that will help you reach your goals and find your support groups. What are you New Year’s Resolutions? I’d love to hear about them! Please leave a comment if you don’t mind sharing.

 

December 25, 2009

Things To Consider When Returning Christmas Gifts

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Christmas is about family and traditions. Chances are even though the gifts you received were thoughtfully purchased with love, there are still a few you want to return. Either the sweater from your aunt was too big or you just don’t need another universal remote. Whatever the gift in question may be, you plan to take it back.

If you’re taking back a $3 item standing in the return line for 45 minutes might not be such a great idea. If you decide your item is worth the wait in line keep in mind that each store has their own return policy. To make your return as easy as possible take the gift receipt if you have it or the original store receipt if you have the guts to ask the giver for it. If you don’t have either a gift receipt or the store receipt, the store doesn’t have to take back or exchange your item.

Things to keep in mind when returning items:

Is it in the original condition? If the tag is missing from clothing most stores will not take the item back. Often if electronics are opened stores will only give you the exact same item, and only if the original item was damaged.

Is it a valuable gift? Stores might not have a problem taking back a $15 gift without a receipt, but they might be very hesitant about taking back a $500 TV. If you don’t have the receipt for your pricey item be prepared to be turned away.

Was the item ever on sale or clearance? If so don’t expect to get the full value back. Stores often will only credit you the lowest sale price.

Was it re-gifted? If the item wasn’t sold by the store in the last 30, 60, or 90 days you may be stuck with it. If the gift giver had your new holiday candles in her closet since last Christmas you might be embarrassed when you try to return them to the store.

Before heading to return items ask yourself the questions above. Will you be embarrassed at the store if they return to take your items? Is your item worth standing in the return line for? Being frugal doesn’t just apply to your money, but also your time! Have any gift return tips? Leave a comment!

 

December 21, 2009

Free Magazine Subscriptions For The Frugal

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Magazine subscriptions are some of the greatest freebies out there. Most people don’t even know they are available. Free magazine subscriptions are very common, but they come and go so fast that you have to be quick to sign up. Take advantage of these free subscriptions that allow you to enjoy magazines without spending a dime.

Magazines For Moms

  • Babytalk Magazine: This is a magazine about all things baby. Pregnancy, childbirth, newborns, and toddlers are all covered.
  • American Baby Magazine: A lot like Babytalk. You can never have enough parenting magazines!
  • Kiwi Magazine: I just received my first issue and haven’t had a chance to look at this one yet.  I know it has lots of baby articles and kids activities in it.  Get Kiwi magazine free when you join Mom’s Meet for free.

Magazines For Anyone

I take full advantage of free magazine offers. Currently I have a free bridal magazine waiting to be read on my bed even though I‘m married, and several subscriptions to hunting magazines even though I don’t hunt. I also get free Woman’s Day, American Baby, Kiwi, Babytalk, Parenting, and more. I read them and then I use them in craft projects. 

Do you know of a free magazine offer I missed? If so, or even if you just want to say hello, please leave a comment. Enjoy your free magazines!

 

December 17, 2009

Free Classes & Activities For Children Ages 0-12

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Winter break is starting, it’s cold, and you and your kiddos will be cooped up in the house. Being Christmastime your budget is probably non-existent, yet you still want to plan some fun family activities that your children will never forget. It is possible, if you do a little research now.

There are many children’s gyms and learning centers that are offering free trial classes right now. Call your local children’s centers and see if you can bring your child to a trial classes. Call places that offer cheer, dance, gymnastic, karate, kids art, skate lessons, or any other place that offers lessons for children.

National centers currently offering free trial classes include Gymboree, Kindermusik, and The Little Gym. Many centers have age ranges that they cater too, such as 0-5 or ages 1-12, so be sure to ask before you schedule your free class.

Gymboree – From the Gymboree website click on “music & play”. Classes currently offered by Gymboree include:

  • -Play & Learn ages 0-5yr
  • -Music 6 mo-5yr
  • -Art 18 mo-5yr
  • -Sports 3 yr-5yr
  • -Family 0-5yr
  • -School Skills 3yr-5yr

Kindermusik – Classes currently offered include:

  • -Family Time 0 & Up
  • -Village Newborn to 18mo
  • -Sign & Sing 6mo-3yr
  • -Out Time 18mo-3yr
  • -Imagine That 3yr-5yr
  • -Young Child 5yr-7yr
  • -Adventure Camps 0-7yr
  • -ABC Music & Me 2yr-6yr

The Little Gym – The Little Gym offers classes for babies age 4 months to children age 12! Classes include:

  • -Parent/Child Classes
  • -Pre-school/Kindergarten Gymnastic
  • -Grade School Gymnastics
  • -Karate
  • -Sports Skills Development
  • -Cheerleading
  • -Dance

These are just three resources available that offer a free trial class. Don’t forget to call your locally owned businesses and see if they also offer a free trial. Even with a non-existent budget, you and your child can have a blast on your holiday break. If you know of any other free activities for kids or just want to say hi, please leave a comment!

 

December 13, 2009

Frugal Snack Ideas That Save Money

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As a stay at home mom of three we go through a lot of snacks. Snacks can be one of the main budget busters on your grocery list, as some snack foods are more expensive than regular meal foods. What’s a mom on a tight budget to do? Plan ahead and buy only lost cost snack foods.

Inexpensive snack foods include:

Popcorn-Comes in butter, light, seasoned, and more flavors then I could possibly list here!

Saltine Crackers-Available in salt, no salt, whole wheat, light, and more. Smear on a little peanut butter or add a little cheese for some variety.

Toast-It’s not just for breakfast! Eat it alone, with butter, jam, peanut butter, or anything else your kiddos might like.

Dry Cereal- It’s a great safe finger food for toddlers.

Bananas-They’re always less than .50 lb in my area, but I usually get them on sale for .35 lb. Serve them whole, slice them up, or dip them in chocolate and freeze them. Yum!

Pretzels-They come in HUGE bags and are super cheap when compared to chips.

Popsicles- They came in huge boxes and bags for just a few dollars. They’re a life saver in the Summer!

We spend the most money on snacks when we’re running errands I have forgotten to bring a snack along. I usually end up pulling through a drive through for a drink and something for each of my kids from the dollar menu. That’s $5 bucks out the drive through window! I realized I need to keep store brand granola or fruit bars in my purse at all times. They’re small, light, and the kids love them.

Buying plastic baggies for snacks on the go is convenient, but if you spent $3 a month or baggies, that’s $36 a year. $36 is a lot to throw away. A more frugal option is to buy cheap snack size storage containers from the dollar store. They last forever if you take care of them. Online you can buy fabric snack and sandwich bags for a few dollars that are super cute and also last a long time.

While snacks can take a chunk out of your grocery budget you don’t have to skip them altogether. If you choose low cost options you, your budget, and your kiddos can all be full happy snackers. Do you know of a great low cost snack or have a tip to share? If so leave a comment!

 

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