When you order
an item from a catalogue and need to return
it, if the retailer has a brick and mortar store in
your area, they may accept the return there. This saves
you the expense of the return shipping.
Use that extra
paycheck. If you get paid every other week,
build your budget on two paychecks per month, or 24
per year. When the extra two paychecks come in, put
them toward your credit card debt. You'll never feel
it on the living expense side, yet you'll get out of
debt much quicker.
Coupons can save
you money, but not if they're expired. To keep
this from happening, file your coupons by expiration
month instead of category. That way, you can look through
the coupons each month and see if you need to purchase
any of the items.
When paying your
bills by mail, send them 7-10 days in advance.
If your payment is late, it could cost you $29 or more
in a late fee.
Keep all of the
receipts from your purchases. That way you
can confirm the charge on your credit card statement.
It will also make the process simpler in case you need
to return the item for replacement or refund.
If you overlook
making a payment until the due date, don't
panic. Simply call the company and see if they can accept
a one-time payment by phone or with a debit card. This
will keep you from having a late mark against your credit,
as well as having a late fee assessed.
Some over-the-limit
fees on credit cards are $39. Save money by
never exceeding your credit limit.
Never charge more
than you can pay off in full and on time each month.
Doing so will save you hundreds of dollars in interest
and fees every year.
Paying for theft
insurance on your credit card may not be a
wise idea. It is not likely that you'll need it, because
if you lose your card, you're only liable for $50 if
anything at all.
Be cautious when
using the cash advance option on your credit
card. Often the rate for this service is much higher,
and there's no grace period. You'll start paying interest
right away.