50 Ways to Improve Your Finances in 2012

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Here is a big secret: You don't necessarily have to go online to watch free TV. I have never paid for TV because I only use an indoor antenna through which I receive an amazing number of channels. This includes all 3 major networks, and their subsidiary stations which provide home, cooking and health programs. In addition I watch 10 local L.A./OrangeCounty channels which also broadcast old movies and TV classics in addition to regular programming. Added to that I get 12 PBS stations which provide all sorts of international news shows, English, Italian, Swedish etc. crime dramas, comedies, documentaries etc. Many of these shows cannot be found on cable or satellite TV. And surprisingly antennas provide the best HD reception. I always find something interesting to watch and I don't have to contact a company or pay a ridiculous bill. You can buy an antenna for around $80.00 at Best Buy. Just check the on line TV listings for what programs may be available "over the air" (another term for antenna.). Then replace the cable box with the antenna and reprogram your TV (Auto channel search) with your remote control. Sadly good reception is not available everywhere and what you get depends on whats available in your area. If it doesn't work You can always go back to your old provider.

KathyFH of CA 3:15PM June 12, 2012

Recycling metal is great! We moved into a house in Dec. and yes, should have had a better house inspection before we moved in. We had some metal to recycle when we first moved. My housemate brought it to the recycling place and dropped it off because she did not want to go through the process of getting money. Recently we had more metal cabinets (left from former owners) piping etc. and 3 short copper pipes. This time I said that I would do the talking and get paid for recycling. We took our first load and got $16 for copper and $7 for metal. A second trip got us $10 for the metal. Our total of $33 helped pay for plants for the cemetery totaling $33! What fun!

Rebecca of NY 12:34PM June 12, 2012

I would add recycling to save money. Aluminum, old scrap metal, etc. are enviromentally sound choices. I have a hand towel and sponge at the kitchen sink. Less paper towels to buy and again enviromentally friendly. Go to garage sales and buy your partial cans of cleaning solutions for pennies on the dollar.
If you have a sunny spot in your yard you can container garden tomatoes, peppers, and herbs. I could go on but you get the idea.

Diane Harrington of AL 11:41AM June 12, 2012

I use to think my parents didn't love me as much as my brother. But now that I am 57yrs old I thank my parents for being mean to me because they let my older brother move back into thier home when he was 38 after his divorce and he is still living off or my mom. She is now in an assissted living place and my brother sold her paid for home and has total access to her money from it. She is in very bad health and I am sure she will pass away soon. But my brother will have spent all of the estate by then and we will get nothing,my sister and I. But what about my brother? He will be left to fend for him self. and at 60yrs old, will be almost impossible for him to get employment let alone be able to take care of himself. My sister just graduated from Nursing school, which she paid for with no help. Myself, I own a small profitable buisness that I financed myself on a shoestring. I believe that my sister and I will survive just fine. My older brother, I feel bad for because he was not taught our valuable lesson we learned because my mom liked boys better than girls. Thanks Mom for making me who I am today.

Rose of WA 5:15PM June 10, 2012

American people have been spending more than they have for quite some time.When this is done, sooner or later it catches up with you. This is true of our government as well.

Honda grey of NY 9:16PM June 08, 2012

I think that this should be something for everyone to read. No matter your income status this is very informative.

SophiaG of MD 8:54AM June 05, 2012

Nice article

Shree of IN 2:53AM June 01, 2012

Focus on the WHY is excellent advice. Every American should also be seeking information and solutions. Every American should "Become Their Own Banker"
Learn about this concept at: www.thePrivatizedBankingMovement.org
It will change your LIFE and your will TRULY be FREE!

Tiffany of NE 2:05PM May 30, 2012

Have a financial plan-review it every six months.-create a mixed portfolio of real estate or rental environments,stocks that grow and some that bear good dividends,have an educational plan even if one is retired,have a plan for surporting important social goals-like environmental preservation,community based social needs-like reducing poverty,create a passion for ethical behavior,protest inept government practices-live a healthy,parsimonious life.keep time for spiritual growth and love for your fellow man

Dr.D.fraser of FL 2:03PM May 19, 2012