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We all will be in a position at some stage of having to live on less income due to the MS or other. Pension or not it is always good to be prepared for when or if it happens but also to have the tips and knowledge to know how to tackle the problem.
Cut to the chase!
Information is everywhere and the Net is a good place to start. Search for good budget software for you to start with and there are free trail or software out there. If you don't understand how to run a budget - LEARN! Having a budget will protect you from blowing all your money on unnecessary things and help you understand where on earth it’s all gone so you may be able to curb it in some way.
Going to the library is also another helpful avenue and it’s not necessary to have a computer program to do a budget it can be done on paper. At the library you can find helpful information and also it’s free so make sure you join if you haven't already.
After working out what avenue you want to take work out your expenses and this is where it gets tricky and is a challenge. Work out the best deals and reassess everything. Mortgage, phone everything. What are you big expenses and is there a better deal you could be doing? You will never know until you investigate. Different bank or change mortgage or different phone/broadband carrier - don't be too scared to give something different ago. Just be wary of the possible start up costs for the new selection or lock in contracts. If you are comfortable with the selection go for it because in the long run you’re saving yourself money.
It’s a case you have to ask yourself some questions. Example; do I use the full potential on my mobile or phone plan - if not time to downgrade. Same goes for mortgage back to a basic package helping reduce you minimum but usually still allowing yourself some room to put down extra. Fix the interest rate for the future. All these things can save you thousands.
A big cost for people is food and entertainment. Food: There a cheap ways to buy and that is bulk. Bulk may seem too much or costly at the time but in the long run will saving hundreds. Meat is a good example if brought in bulk when on special is a huge savings. Some supermarkets are cheaper than others. There is also online food shopping although a little dearer in price they still stock the cheaper home brands which if you stick to can take it way down and the good thing about doing it on the net if you haven't stuck to your budgeted amount you can take stuff off the list without the embarrassment. If you are physically unable it is also another way to combat both problems and having it delivered is sometimes cheaper than then the petrol to go get it especially if you did if fortnightly or monthly etc meaning one delivery fee spread over weeks is way cheaper. Dinning out just needs to be creative - doesn't need to be fine dining and even a feed of fish and chips eaten down the beach or park makes a lovely night out.
Thinking outside the square is necessary. Growing your own garden vegetables makes a big saving. It’s definitely a challenge playing the game of getting by with no money but it is rewarding none the less.
There are many departments and people that can help but reassessing every part of one’s life will fine and save you money. Clear out even and get rid of those unused things. Ebay and alike are great ways to make extra money from.
It just takes a bit of thought and being crafty to save that money. Look at the fine print on things - maybe your credit card is offering a special on balance transfers. It pays to look at everything.
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