Ways to Save Cash in 2010

A friend of mine sent this list to help you save up to $15,680 this year.

1. Property tax adjustment - Lower home values means lower taxes; also make sure you are not over-insured. (Value $147)
2. Bundle home and auto insurance – Save big by using the same provider for home, auto and life insurance.  (Value $400)
3. Select a higher deductible for auto and home insurance – Lower your premiums by choosing a higher deductible. (Value $150)
4. Bundle cable, phone and Internet – Get more services from one company and save; but be sure to only get what you need.  (Value $240)
5. Reevaluate your mobile phone plan – Check your bill for the past few months and see if you can drop down a level. (Value $240)
6. Maintain back account and avoid fees – Paying your bills online increases awareness of your account activity.  (Value $84)
7. Put money into savings – Set aside $50 each month; it adds up quickly.  (Value $600)
8. Save your loose change – If you save $0.50 a day, this will add up too.  (value $180)
9. Use a flex spending account – Many exployers offer this benefit to prepay for out-of-pocket medical expenses before tax. (Value $250)
10. Bring lunch to work – It only costs you $3/day or less to bring food from home versus $6/day or more eating out.  (Value $780)
11. Eat out two fewer times/month – Make dinner at home instead of eating out.  (Value $360)
12. Pass on beverages while dining out – Some restaurants sell wine at a 575% markup.  They make even more for soft drinks, juices, and coffee.  (Value $100)
13. Bottle your own water - This helps save the planet and saves up to $2/day.  (Value $730)
14. Brew coffee at home – Going to a coffee retailer can be very costly.  (Value $1,156)
15. Buy what’s on sale at the grocery store – Check the weekly ads for specials and seasonal discounts. (Value $1,000)
16. Use coupons for groceries and dining out – If you take a few moments to find the coupons, it will add up.  (Value $2,000)
17. Buy at the dollar store instead of the local convenience store – Find deals on cleaning supplies, gift wrap, snacks and shampoo. (Value $200)
18. Carpool to work - Reduce fuel costs, wear and tear, and traffic congestion.  (Value $520)
19. Slow down and save gas – Driving above 55 miles per hour reduces gas mileage by 20%.  You also lose another 10% when you drive with your windows rolled down.  (Value $200)
20. Change your own car oil – Value $100
21. Air dry clothes instead of using a dryer – For every hour your dryer is on, $1 is lost.  (Value $312)
22. Lower the temperature of your water heater – Switch from 140 to 120 degrees.  (Value $50)
23. Lower your thermostat / heater – Adjust the temperature by 10% while you are at work and save while you are sleeping.  (Value $260)
24. Save water by turning off the tap – Turn off the tap while doing dishes and brushing your teeth.  (Value $50)
25. Skip the pet groomer - Teeth brushing ($11/month), ear cleaning ($9/month), nail trim ($9/month), bath ($10/month), haircut ($25/month).  (Value $768)
26. Buy generic instead of brand name pet food – often you’ll find the same nutrients as the premium brands.  (Value $360)
27. Hold off on the newest movies – Save $8/month and watch on DVD for $1.  (Value $96)
28. Skip the popcorn at the movies – If you do go to the movies, eat first so you don’t purchase expensive food items and treats.  (Value $72)
29. Exercise at home or outside instead of the gym – Save yourself the hassle and money of a gym membership.  (Value $360)
30. Manicure/pedicure at home instead of the salon - Buy your own supplies and do-it-yourself. (Value $300)
31. Extend your hair cuts and visits to the salon – Go every eight weeks instead of six.  (Value $80-260 for men and women depending on services)
32. Cancel magazine subscriptions – If you still need to read it, visit your local library or go on-line.  (Value $500)
33. Negotiate the price on a car – Get a deal by looking at slightly used / pre-owned.  (Value $500 or more)
34. Sell unused household items – Have a garage sale or put it on eBay.  (Value $800 or more)
35. Donate household items - For anything that doesn’t sell, take a charitable tax deduction. (Value $500 or more)
36. Maximize all tax deductions – Pay a professional to make sure you’re maximizing your taxes.  (Value $1,300)