I’ve received a few requests lately for tips on saving money on things like electric and cable bills. Here are two steps that I take every year that have produced a significant amount of savings in my budget.
Know What is Going Out
Once every year, I take a few hours to review my bank statements going back for a few months. When I do this, I look at few things for every expense:
*Is this expense necessary?
*Could I do without this expense for a few months and use the money towards something else?
*Am I taking advantage of any and all discounts possible?
It is very important while doing this to allow yourself the time to really focus and think through these questions.
It Never Hurts to Ask
Once I’ve completed step one, I’ll take some more time to contact many of the companies that my money is going out to. In the past this has included my gym, electric company, cable company, credit cards, mortgage holder and many others. When I contact these utility providers and other companies I ask them if there is any way that I could be saving on my bill. Sometimes they will say no (electric and mortgage 
), but many times I’ve been pleasantly surprised by the available discounts! Many customer service agents understand that money is tight for many Americans right now, and I’ve often found that they are very understanding and willing to help.
Even, if money is not tight for you at this time in your life, there is no better time than now to create more savings in your budget.
What other things do you do to save money on bills? Please share in the comments section.
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