How do you stretch money when costs ar rising and paychecks aren’t?  Here are some tips to help you stay within or below your budget. The secret to financial freedom is living below your means so you’ve got money to get through a rainy day so make sure you’re doing your best to put away savings!

1. Be more energy conscious. While you might be thinking about more immediate needs rather than energy which won’t impact you until the bill comes next month, thinking about it now will help considerably. If you have a kid, nominate them the ‘hydro’ cop who makes sure everyone keeps the lights out and unused appliances off.
2. Don’t eat out. Eating fast food is one of the biggest money leeches in your budget. Just don’t do it. If you want a treat, make something you like. Do homemade pizzas and make it a family affair where everone gets to build their own. Chances are that for less than the cost of the drive-thru you’ll have a family bonding time and lunch leftovers for the next day!
3. Cut back on everything. Look at your budget as a challenge and look for ways to cut corners such as removing features on your phone and extra channels on the tv. Maybe even cut back your internet to a lower speed service for a few months. It’ll all add up.
4. Try to use coupons when you shop. Shop for specials by making a list after the week’s flyers arrive and figure out how much money you can save to put in the rainy day fund jar. Rainy day fund jar importance is huge right now if you’re worried about loss of a job or a cut in hours
5. Ask for overtime if you can. Your boss may need extra help and you can use the extra cash.
6. Try to make some extra money.  Visit the Work at Home Blog for some tips.