Coming up with more ways to save money on everyday living expenses helps give you an edge and keeps you from overspending. Here are a few more tips that can help you do just that
Promo codes
How many times have you been shopping online and notice a box when you check out that is labeled promo code? Do you feel left out? Would you like to take advantage of it? Now there are websites that research these and supply you with the promotional codes. The savings can be significant: up to 50% off or free shipping, etc.
You can find these at www.retailmenot.com and www.couponchief.com. These provide codes for major retailers including around 20,000 stores and online retailers. You can also find codes at www.currentcodes.com as well as www.freeshipping.org.
Finally, other sites that are worth a look include: www.couponcabin.com, www.savings.com, www.couponwinner.com, www.promotionalcodes.com, www.webcouponcodes.com and www.shoppersresource.com.
The only issue you should be aware of is that most of these sites require you to register and that means more email into your inbox which provide more coupons and deals. While this is a great concept, it can become overwhelming. So, try to stick with one or two sites at first. Then if you find that you do not like or use a site, be sure to close your account and unsubscribe from their email system.
Automobile repair
It has been well documented that repairs on vehicles are high because more people are keeping their cars in order to save money. While the miles are racking up so do the potential repair bills. How can you protect yourself from becoming a victim of the auto repair industry scam artists?
There is a website to help with this problem: www.repairpal.com. This site is based on the premise that information is a good thing when it comes to comparing quotes for repairs. In this manner, they offer free, down-to-earth quotes which are based upon repair prices at thousands of shops across the country along with analysis of invoices.
But it goes beyond that service by offering a listing of local mechanics for quotes on repairs and maintenance in your local area. The information is also tailored to the make and model of your vehicle. When you register for a free account you can store all of your vehicle repair records while signing up for email alerts on service reminders, safety issues and recalls.
Customer loyalty cards
Many merchants offer customer loyalty cards which provide you with discounts in exchange for shopping at their stores. This is not a new concept but is apparently picking up momentum as the economy struggles along and consumers look for the best buys in an effort to curb their spending.
In exchange for the use of the card, you will find discounts at local grocery stores, future discounts or coupons in the mail based upon your shopping habits, or even rewards for repeat shopping by offering buy 10 and get the next one free promotions.
The amount of money you can save will vary, but when you use these cards, you can make a nice dent in your regular spending.