Making the Most of Your Money
How to Get More for Your Money
It used to be that "middle class" meant "comfortable." Yet today some are finding that lifestyle is slipping away as they struggle to maintain their standard of living.
Today the best way to maintain the lifestyle you're accustomed to is to become smarter with the money you do have.
Here are a few ways you can maximize your money:
Budget for your specific needs. When every dollar counts you can't afford to let anything slip through the cracks. That's where a budget comes in. Creating one-and actually using it-can help you take control of your money. Start by keeping a spending journal so you can see where your money's going. Next subtract your fixed monthly costs (i.e. mortgage or rent car payment utilities savings etc.) from your monthly income. The remaining money is what you have left for variable expenses such as groceries entertainment gas etc. How you divide this money is up to you -- the only catch is you have to stay within your budget limits.
Plan ahead to avoid ATM fees. Avoiding this extra cost is as simple as planning ahead. Paying $3 here and there may not seem like a lot but it adds up over time. For example paying $3 at a non-bank ATM four times a month adds up to $144 each year. That's money that could have been put away in savings or spent on other items.
Find a credit card that benefits you. Look for one that rewards you for the money you spend.
Save money on everything. With a bit of advance planning and research you can save money on everything from groceries and gas to haircuts and entertainment. Many of these savings can be found online and through mobile apps. Follow your favorite businesses via social media to learn about exclusive discounts and sales. Mobile apps can help you find the lowest prices on gas and other items you use every day.
Source: BMO Harris Bank
Today the best way to maintain the lifestyle you're accustomed to is to become smarter with the money you do have.
Here are a few ways you can maximize your money:
Budget for your specific needs. When every dollar counts you can't afford to let anything slip through the cracks. That's where a budget comes in. Creating one-and actually using it-can help you take control of your money. Start by keeping a spending journal so you can see where your money's going. Next subtract your fixed monthly costs (i.e. mortgage or rent car payment utilities savings etc.) from your monthly income. The remaining money is what you have left for variable expenses such as groceries entertainment gas etc. How you divide this money is up to you -- the only catch is you have to stay within your budget limits.
Plan ahead to avoid ATM fees. Avoiding this extra cost is as simple as planning ahead. Paying $3 here and there may not seem like a lot but it adds up over time. For example paying $3 at a non-bank ATM four times a month adds up to $144 each year. That's money that could have been put away in savings or spent on other items.
Find a credit card that benefits you. Look for one that rewards you for the money you spend.
Save money on everything. With a bit of advance planning and research you can save money on everything from groceries and gas to haircuts and entertainment. Many of these savings can be found online and through mobile apps. Follow your favorite businesses via social media to learn about exclusive discounts and sales. Mobile apps can help you find the lowest prices on gas and other items you use every day.
Source: BMO Harris Bank
