Money Saving Tips I've accumulated and I'm practicing

1) If you're a beginner saver like me put at least 10%-15% of income in your savings. My manager says I should save 30% but I'll get there.

2) Use CFL (compact flourescent) bulbs to save on electricity. Only 50% of my house is using these but I'm going to switch the others when they burn out. Turn off any lights or whatever that you're not using.

3) Any loose change that I find around the house, car or office I put into my savings.

4) BUDGET! This had an immediate effect on my bank account because everything has a limit. I track mine at wellsfargobank.com where they can track your spending. But a simple spreadsheet is good enough.

5) By tracking income/expenses every month you can gauge how well your doing when it comes to different spending categories.

6) WALMART!! I used to shop at Ralph's for groceries because its right around the corner but everything in WALMART is inexpensive compared to other places. When you're working and still in school WALMART kicks ass.

7) PACK YOUR LUNCH. This also had an immediate effect on my finances. I used to eat
at the local spots near work but I realized what a RIP it is. Instead of spending $7-$10 for lunch, I cook Pasta, or make a sandwhich the night before. I used to buy chips at the convenience store in the building but now I just keep a box of Cheez-Its in my desk for snacks.

8) EAT IN! This kind of goes with #7. I used to always just eat out for dinner but buying groceries and trying to save money has forced me to cook.

9) If you have points or rewards on your credit card use the card, only if you're able to pay off the balance every month.