5 Cost-Cutting Tips to Stretch Your Retirement Budget

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I'm surprised you didn't touch on cellular service! For almost a decade now we have been brainwashed to think that we must have a cell phone and be connected at all times. And the reality is that we now are expected to do so, even by our employer. But what we don't have to do is pay $100 a month on a contract iPhone. The best alternative to save money is to have a prepaid cell phone service such as TracFone. Of courser there are many others including Virgin or T-Mobile, But I know TracFone because i have it. It's proved to be the most cost effective since many of the phones come with double minutes. So a monthly card that might cost me $30 actually yields 60 of talk time. The monthly expense is totally manageable. This is perfect for people like me who are not on the cell 24/7 and are not in the habit of texting everything and anything to everyone and anyone. But seriously, consider switching to prepaid - well worth the option.

Misha of IL 11:08PM March 21, 2012

I'm surprised you didn't touch on cellular service! For almost a decade now we have been brainwashed to think that we must have a cell phone and be connected at all times. And the reality is that we now are expected to do so, even by our employer. But what we don't have to do is pay $100 a month on a contract iPhone. The best alternative to save money is to have a prepaid cell phone service such as TracFone. Of courser there are many others including Virgin or T-Mobile, But I know TracFone because i have it. It's proved to be the most cost effective since many of the phones come with double minutes. So a monthly card that might cost me $30 actually yields 60 of talk time. The monthly expense is totally manageable. This is perfect for people like me who are not on the cell 24/7 and are not in the habit of texting everything and anything to everyone and anyone. But seriously, consider switching to prepaid - well worth the option.

Misha of IL 11:07PM March 21, 2012

Glad you made the point about the satellite TV teaser rates. They look fabulous...less than half what a normal cable bill is. But, after the first 6-12 months you will be paying the usual rate.
Of course, you still may save money. Figure out how much you'll save during the teaser period and see if it more than makes up for the regular rate for the remainder of the contract. Also, be aware if you are in a stormy part of the country small dishes are affected by winds, rain, and snow.

Bob Lowry of AZ 10:39AM January 21, 2012