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To help you plan your $1,000 day, we gathered 100 tips on saving money. Each tip includes how much money it saves, a first step, and how long that first step will take. We also point to further resources in case you'd like to dig deeper into a particular idea. As much as possible we focused on "one time" actions you can take that don't involve actual changes in habit. This will make your $1,000 day even more likely to save you money.

• 2 Tools You Will Need for Your $1,000 Day
• 10 Ways to Save by Busting Your Debt
• 6 Ways to Save on Insurance
• 13 Ways to Save by Conserving Energy at Home
• 8 Ways to Save on Banking and Investing
• 6 Ways to Save on Transportation
• 9 Ways to Save on Health and Fitness
• 3 Ways to Save on Your Career
• 12 Ways to Save on Entertainment, Travel and Shopping
• 33 Ways to Save on Household Expenses
• The Power of the First Step
• More Savings Resources

2 Tools You Will Need

• 1. A timer to keep you focused and on track all day long. We recommend the online stop watch and the countdown timer. You can use an egg timer if you prefer.
• 2. A piece of paper or "new document" in your favorite word processing program. Write "$1,000 Day Action Plan Sheet" at the top and then copy and paste ideas from our list below. Now, on your day off, you can cross each item off your list as you complete it. Never underestimate the power of lists and crossing things off of them!

10 Ways to Save by Busting Your Debt

Sometimes all it takes for a lower interest rate is a phone call. Sometimes it takes a little more effort than that... Pay special attention to the first action steps, and if anything sounds manageable then add it to your list!

1. Request a Credit Card Rate Reduction

Call up your credit card company and request a rate reduction, especially if you consistently carry a balance.

First Action Step: List your demands and then call your credit card company.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 30 Minutes
Further Resources:
How to negotiate with credit card companies
How to Negotiate Lower Interest Rates

2. Consolidate Student Loans

Consolidate sooner than later, especially if your rates are higher than average.

First Action Step: Read more about consolidating student loans.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 30 Minutes
Further Resources:
How to consolidate student loans?
Tips On Consolidating Student Loans

3. Find a Cheaper Credit Card

Choose a credit card with no annual fee, know how your issuer calculates interest charges, and be sure you benefit from introductory rates.

First Action Step: Find and apply for a no-fee credit card.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 15 Minutes
Further Resources:
Four Steps to Choosing a Credit Card
Choosing a Credit Card

4. Negotiate Your Mortgage

Always ask mortgage brokers, "is that the best you can do for me on the fees, terms and mortgage rate?"

First Action Step: Find other potential mortgage providers and make a list of their phone numbers. Call them.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 30 Minutes
Further Resources:
A Mortgage Negotiation Mistake
Always Negotiate Mortgage Lender's Fees

5. Sign Up for Automatic Debt Repayment Plans

Signing up for automatic debt repayment, especially on student loans, can result in a small rate reduction.

First Action Step: Sign up for all auto-bill and auto-payment plans available through your providers.
Estimated Savings: Less Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 30 Minutes
Further Resources:
How To Get Out of Debt With A Debt Repayment Plan
How Much Should I Spend on Debt Repayment?

6. Transfer Balance to Low-Rate Card

Transfer your balance to a low-rate card, but only if you plan to pay off the balance completely, and won't be making any new charges. Watch for balance transfer fees, and beware of changing terms.

First Action Step: Find and apply for a low-rate credit card.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 15 Minutes
Further Resources:
Switch to zero percent balance transfer credit cards

7. Close Unused Cards

If you have a credit card you don't use, close the account and cut up the card. But only for newer cards - older cards have more history and can help to improve your credit score.

First Action Step: Learn how to close your card, then close it.
Estimated Savings: Less Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 5 Minutes

8. Pay Off Credit Cards Completely

Pay off your credit card debt every month - no questions, no excuses.

First Action Step: Pay off your credit card debt immediately - transfer the money now.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 5 Minutes
Further Resources:
How To Pay Off Credit Card Debt: A Success Story
Paying Off Credit Card Debt

9. Pay Off Student Loans

Paying off your student loan quickly reduces interest payments, saving you thousands.

First Action Step: Research ways to pay off your student loan quickly and safely.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 15 Minutes
Further Resources:
5 Tips for Paying Off Student Loans
25 Tips, Ideas, Resources for Paying Back Student Loans

10. Pay in Cash

Pay for your next car or other major purchase with cash. If you don't have the money, don't get the car. If it's an emergency replacement, pay as much as possible up front.

First Action Step: Start saving up money by following the tips in this guide ;)
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 20 Minutes
Further Resources:
How To Save Up Money In A Bad Economy
Always pay cash for a car

6 Ways to Save on Insurance

You pay for insurance to protect yourself and your loved ones. You might be paying for too much protection though. Read through this list and copy any first action steps you'd like to take into your action sheet.

11. Raise Deductibles

Check your policy and call your agent to raise the deductibles on your car and home insurance. If you don't claim the small stuff you could save on insurance costs by about 40%.

First Action Step: Call your insurance company and ask for their help in reviewing your program.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 30 Minutes

12. Avoid Whole Life Insurance

Whole life policies are expensive - term policies, which cover you for a set period, are a much better deal for you.

First Action Step: Call your insurance agent and switch to a term life insurance policy.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 20 Minutes
Further Resources:
How to Buy Life Insurance Without Getting Screwed
How to Save Money on Life Insurance

13. Pay Life Insurance Annually

Insurance companies sometimes charge you more if you pay monthly, quarterly or semi-annually. Pay once a year and you'll pay less.

First Action Step: Call your insurance agent and switch to annual payment if you have the cash available.
Estimated Savings: Less Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 20 Minutes
Further Resources:
9 Ways To Save Money On Insurance And Banking

14. Don't Pay for Life Insurance for Children

Unless your child is severely ill and you may need help with funeral or health care costs, only buy life insurance to replace income of the family breadwinners.

First Action Step: Cancel life insurance for children unless there are extenuating circumstances.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 15 Minutes
Further Resources:
How to Save Money on Car Insurance
How to Save Money on Your Homeowner's Insurance Rates

15. Get Life Insurance that Covers ALL Circumstances

Get life insurance that cover you no matter what the cause of death is.

First Action Step: Make a list of all the insurance you have, then call and cancel unneeded insurance.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 15 Minutes

16. Drop Collision Insurance on Cars Over 7 Years Old

Drop collision insurance on a car that's over 7 years old. Put the money for aside for repairs instead.

First Action Step: Call your auto insurance company.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 15 Minutes
Further Resources:
Save Money on Car Insurance

13 Ways to Save by Conserving Energy at Home

What if lost heat and cooling turned into dollar bills after it left your house? Well, instead of following these tips you could go outside every morning and gather up the money you wasted. Look for action steps that sound accomplishable and add them to your action sheet.

17. Conduct a Home Energy Audit

A home energy audit can identify ways to save hundreds of dollars a year on home heating and air conditioning. Ask your electric or gas utility if they audit homes for free or a small fee.

First Action Step: Learn what it takes to conduct your own energy audit. Make a checklist for it and decide on a time to do it.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 20 Minutes
Further Resources:
Do-It-Yourself Home Energy Audits
DIY Home Energy Audit

18. Install Ceiling Fans

Regulate temperatures with a ceiling fan and you can very comfortably adjust your thermostat up or down by 3 degrees.

First Action Step: Research ceiling fans and pick the ones that will meet your needs. Wait for it to go on sale.
Estimated Savings: Less Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 15 Minutes
Further Resources:
How to Install a Ceiling Fan

19. Seal All Cracks

Seal your house by closing the fireplace damper, installing a timer on the bathroom exhaust fan and sealing all ductwork.

First Action Step: Make a list of all the areas of your house where you could improve the seals.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 15 Minutes

20. Replace Old Refrigerators

Refrigerators made before 1993 require up to $140 a year in electricity. Newer Energy Star-rated model runs on about $20 worth of electricity.

First Action Step: Check on your refrigerator's age and consider replacing it - if now is not a good time then learn how to increase your refrigerator's efficiency.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 15 Minutes
Further Resources:
Increase the efficiency of your refrigerator with a few, easy tips

21. Get a Front Loading Washing Machine

Front loading washers use 40-75% less water and 30-85% less energy than most top-loaders.

First Action Step: Research the best front loading washing machine and wait for it to go on sale.
Estimated Savings: Less Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 15 Minutes
Further Resources: How to save money on the use of washing machines

22. Install a Programmable Thermostat A programmable thermostat lets you adjust your heater to reduce costs while you're at work, sleeping, on vacation, etc.

First Action Step: Research the best programmable thermostat and wait for it to come on sale.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 15 Minutes
Further Resources:
How to Install a Programmable Thermostat

23. Blanket Your Water Heater Install an insulating blanket for your hot water heater and cut your heating costs.

First Action Step: Go check your water heater's current temperature. Then find out if it should be wrapped in a blanket or not based on its make and model.
Estimated Savings: Less Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 10 Minutes
Further Resources:
Insulate Your Water Heater Tank for Energy Savings
Installing A Water Heater Blanket

24. Research and Convert to Your Cheapest Heat Source In some areas, oil is cheaper. In some it's electricity. Do your homework and learn about what form of heating is cheapest in your area. Your state might even offer tax incentives for switching to more energy efficient heating.

First Action Step: Research your local government's incentives for new heating systems.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 10 Minutes
Further Resources:
Ten Ways To Save Money On Heating Bills This Winter
Electric Heat Cost vs Oil Heat, Gas or Propane Cost

25. Switch to CFLs As your existing light bulbs burn out, switch to compact florescent bulbs.

First Action Step: Add CFL light bulbs to your shopping list.
Estimated Savings: Less Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 1 Minute

26. Utilize Timers and Power Strips Use power strips and power timers to turn electrical devices on and off. Using the two together will prevent "phantom charge."

First Action Step: Add Power Strips to your shopping list.
Estimated Savings: Less Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 1 Minute

27. Lower the Thermostat Get comfortable with lowering the home thermostat by 2-3 degrees in the winter and raising it 2-3 degrees in the summer.

First Action Step: Get up out of your chair - right now - and adjust your thermostat.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 1 Minute
Further Resources:
10 Tips for the Thermostat: Your Key to Savings
Setback Thermostats Save Money

28. Air Seal Your Home Air sealing your home stops drafts that cause the loss of cool air in the summer and the loss of warm air in the winter.

First Action Step: Make a checklist of how to air seal your home, and what items you may need to buy.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 15 Minutes
Further Resources:
Air Sealing an Existing Home

29. Shut Vents in Unused Rooms Shut vents in unused rooms. Not for forced air heating systems though!

First Action Step: Get up out of your chair - right now - and shut the vents in unused rooms.
Estimated Savings: Less Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 5 Minutes

8 Ways to Save on Banking and Investing Fees. Flee them. This section will prompt you to investigate the ones responsible for protecting and growing your money. They might not be doing their job... Paste action steps from this section into your action plan sheet.

30. Move Savings to High Interest Account Move your savings account to a high interest account, especially your emergency fund.

First Action Step: Research high yield savings accounts, pick one, sign up and connect that account to your current bank account.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 10 Minutes
Further Resources:
Best High Yield Savings Accounts

31. Protect Your Savings... From Yourself Protect your savings from impulse splurges by keeping your nest egg in a high interest savings account where the funds take longer to access.

First Action Step: Move some savings from your checking to high yield savings account.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 1 Minute

32. Compare Banking Fees Are you paying too much at your bank? You'll never know until you do your homework.

First Action Step: Research banks in your area, then call them. Alternately, compare their rates online.
Estimated Savings: Less Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 10 Minutes
Further Resources:
Banking Customers Beware

33. Get Overdraft Protection Sign up for overdraft protection and connect your checking account to a savings account, credit card, or other line of credit. Most banks offer this service for free, and typically charge about $5 per transfer.

First Action Step: Call your bank.
Estimated Savings: Less Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 15 Minutes
Further Resources:
You Tell Me: Overdraft Opt-In Rule

34. Squash Investment Fees Investing costs money. Save thousands in management expense ratio fees (MERs), trailer fees, and broker fees by learning ways to minimize these costs.

First Action Step: Review your investment statements and learn what the fees are, if any. If you find them, call and ask to have them revoked.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 5 Minutes
Further Resources:
What are Index Funds? What are Exchange Traded Funds?
Beat Back Investment Fees

35. Check Out ETF as Investments When investing for retirement, consider going from mutual funds to Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs), which have lower management fees.

First Action Step: Research ETFs, find sellers and move your money.
Estimated Savings: Less Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 45 Minutes
Further Resources:
Portfolio MER Calculator
Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs)

36. Bank at a Credit Union Get to know your local credit union and learn more about their requirements for membership. If your credit is solid, they can be a great source for inexpensive loans.

First Action Step: Find a credit union near you, call them and find out how you can join.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 5 Minutes
Further Resources:
Credit Union Search Engine >>
Should You Use a Bank or a Credit Union?

37. Work Your 401k (Yes, Still...) If your employer matches 401(k.) contributions then work hard to max out YOUR contributions.

First Action Step: Talk to HR about your 401k plan
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 15 Minutes
Further Resources:
401K Matching: the Pitfalls
Should I Stop Contributing to My 401k to Pay Off Debt?

6 Ways to Save on Transportation You're paying too much money to get to work. Because of their grinding regularity, commutes are one of the biggest money eaters in your budget. Browse this list and add items to your Action Plan Sheet.

38. Sell Your Extra Car Save money on insurance, gas, and car payments by becoming a single car family.

First Action Step: Begin researching the best way to sell your car.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 20 Minutes
Further Resources:
10 Steps to Selling Your Car
Single Car Family: Surviving in the Suburbs with One Car

39. Sell Your Primary Vehicle Sell your car and explore alternative transportation such as bikes, buses, carpools etcetera.

First Action Step: Begin researching the best way to sell your car.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 20 Minutes
Further Resources:
10 Steps to Selling Your Car

40. Remove Extra Weight from Your Car Extra weight in the car can hurt mileage. Reduce the clutter in your trunk by removing tools, golf clubs, and other weighty, rarely used items.

First Action Step: Open your car's trunk and remove unused, unneeded items.
Estimated Savings: Less Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 5 Minutes

41. Stop Paying Cash for Tolls Sign up for an electronic toll device to save time and fuel by not idling in toll lanes. Some toll roads offer regular commuters discounts of as much as 50 percent.

First Action Step: Learn how and where to get an electronic toll device for your area.
Estimated Savings: Less Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 5 Minutes

42. Take Used Cars to Your Mechanic Before Purchase Before buying any used car have a mechanic you trust check the car, especially if the car is sold "as is."

First Action Step: Call your mechanic and schedule a visit.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 5 Minutes
Further Resources:
Guide to Buying a Used Car

43. Compare Car Prices Before buying a used car, compare the seller's asking price with the average retail price in a "bluebook" or other guide to car prices which can be found at many libraries, banks, and credit unions.

First Action Step: Find a "Bluebook" near you.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 5 Minutes

9 Ways to Save on Health and Fitness Getting in shape, staying healthy, dying - none of these have to be so expensive. Add items from this list that feel "doable" to your Action Plan Sheet.

44. Enroll in a FSA Enroll in your company's flexible-spending account so you can pay for medical costs with pre-tax money.

First Action Step: Write an email to HR right now and ask about how you can enroll in the flex spending account.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 5 Minutes
Further Resources:
Flexible Spending Accounts Provide Free Money. Why Pass It Up?
7 ways to empty flexible spending accounts

45. Negotiate with Your Doctor Some doctors offices offer a cash-paying system that uses a sliding scale for instant payment, and reduced costs for siblings.

First Action Step: Call your doctor's office and learn more about alternative systems of payment.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 5 Minutes
Further Resources:
Want To Pay Less At The Doctor? Negotiate
Negotiating Your Medical Bills

46. Request 3 Month Prescriptions Request a three-month prescription for medications that treat chronic conditions, like diabetes and arthritis.

First Action Step: Call your doctor and ask if they can write you 3 month prescriptions.
Estimated Savings: Less Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 5 Minutes

47. Buy Glasses Online Search the internet for cheaper frames and contact lenses. At some sites you can buy a pair of frames for as little as $8.

First Action Step: Research the process of buying glasses online.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 10 Minutes
Further Resources:
How to Buy Quality Eye Glasses Online & Save Hundreds
Adventures in $40 eyeglasses

48. Quit the Gym Joining a gym can be expensive considering the cost of locker rentals and other add on fees. Some membership contracts are hard to break, or continue for years. Instead of the gym, find ways to exercise in everyday life.

First Action Step: Call your gym and learn more about their cancellation policy.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 5 Minutes
Further Resources:
10 Free Ways to Get into Fitness

49. Quit Smoking Cigarettes cost money when you buy them and then again when you spend money on more health care. Quit. Today.

First Action Step: Make the decision - right now - to quit smoking. Then research various methods and practices for staying off of cigarettes.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 20 Minutes
Further Resources:
How to Quit Smoking

50. Find a Ski Equipment Swap Check out a ski equipment swap if your family skis. You can save up to 80 percent off retail.

First Action Step: Search for a local ski equipment swap.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Further Resources:

Estimated Time for First Step: 1 Minute
Further Resources: Ways to get Fit this Winter

51. Plan Your Funeral Plan ahead, in writing, to make your funeral, memorial, or burial arrangements known. Otherwise you cost your family or estate unnecessary expense.

First Action Step: Plan your funeral.
Estimated Savings: Less Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 30 Minutes
Further Resources:
The Last RIP-Off: Planning a Frugal Funeral
Frugal Tip: Do Not Spend When You Are Sad

52. Find the Cheapest Funeral Home Before selecting a funeral home, call several and ask for an itemized list of prices for specific goods and services. Compare prices and quality of service.

First Action Step: Make a list of local funeral homes and call them to get a feel for their prices.
Estimated Savings: Less Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 30 Minutes
Further Resources:
10 facts funeral directors don't want you to know

3 Ways to Save on Your Career Your career poses the greatest opportunities for more money. This short section is more about MAKING money than saving it. Just make sure that your extra pennies earned become pennies saved!

53. Negotiate All Job Offers and Promotions When you get a job offer or promotion be sure that you're not "leaving money on the table" by negotiating for reasonable increases.

First Action Step: Learn about negotiating with your boss and potential boss for a raise.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 30 Minutes
Further Resources:
Negotiate Your Salary in a Down Economy
My Money Mistake #2 - Didn't Negotiate Salary

54. Move Closer to Work Move closer to work and you'll save money on gas and car maintenance. Being closer could mean riding your bike or even walking, saving you that much more money.

First Action Step: Start hunting for a new place to live.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 30 Minutes
Further Resources:
72 Ways to Save Money Moving
Save Money on Moving

55. Find a New Job Changing careers or finding a new job is the quickest route to earning more money.

First Action Step: Revise your resume.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 30 Minutes
Further Resources:
How to find a job in a recession

12 Ways to Save on Entertainment, Travel and Shopping Pleasures and experiences can be expensive drains on your budget - but they don't have to be! Explore ways to save money in these areas and add any items to your list that feel achievable to you.

56. Watch Movies and TV Online Forget about renting or buying movies if you have a good internet connection.

First Action Step: Look at our lists of free places to watch TV and movies online.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 15 Minutes
Further Resources:
120+ sites to watch TV and movies online
100 Reviewed Places to Watch Free Movies Online

57. Cut or Cancel Cable TV Cable television is very expensive. Review your actual usage (keep track of what you actually watch and when) and cancel the unused extras to save, or just cut the cable completely for maximum savings.

First Action Step: Call your cable company and cancel your unwatched, under utilized services. Or better yet, just cancel!
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 20 Minutes
Further Resources:
How to Cancel Your Cable TV Service
How To Cancel Cable/Satellite TV Without Being Miserable

58. Host a Swap Party Host a swap party with friends and give away stuff while you dig through someone else's.

First Action Step: Write an invitation and send it to your friends.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 15 Minutes
Further Resources:
A Guide to Swap Parties for Frugal Girls Nights

59. Ditch Disposable Dinner Ware Disposable stemware and other disposable party supplies may seem cheap, but the price of plastic can really add up, since you have to buy it for each party. Instead, visit a restaurant-supply store or thrift store for cheaper, reusable alternatives.

First Action Step: Start a thrift store shopping list.
Estimated Savings: Less Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 1 Minute
Further Resources:
Frugal Party Planning
How to Organize and Host a Frugal Block Party

60. Plan a Staycation Instead of traveling, stay home for your next family vacation and save on lodging, dining out, and traveling costs. "Visit" your city as if you were a tourist!

First Action Step: Make a list of all the things to do in your area.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 10 Minutes
Further Resources:
Planning a vacation at home

61. Know Your Low-Cost Carriers Compare low-cost carriers with major carriers that fly to your destination. The best fares may not even be out of the airport closest to you!

First Action Step: Research the best sites for comparing airline ticket costs.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 10 Minutes

62. Check Your Gift Cards for Expiration Dates Some gift cards expire as soon as six months after their purchase, while others charge $1 to $2.50 monthly for "maintenance"if they're not used within 6 to 24 months.

First Action Step: Put your gift cards in a pile and read the back of each one. Note their expiration dates and act accordingly.
Estimated Savings: Less Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 5 Minutes

63. Shop Around for Hosiery Hosiery has inconsistent pricing, more so than other types of clothing. Shop around aggressively for the hosiery you prefer.

First Action Step: Next time you're shopping, write down the name of the store and how much hosiery costs.
Estimated Savings: Less Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 1 Minute

64. Buy Cheap Greens and a Salad Spinner Stop buying bags of prewashed greens. Instead, purchase a salad spinner and do it yourself.

First Action Step: Find the best salad spinner.
Estimated Savings: Less Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 1 Minute
Further Resources:
The best salad spinners

65. Buy Quality Tights If you wear tights at least three to four days a week, invest in a few high-quality pairs that will last several years.

First Action Step: Find websites or stores that sell great tights, then watch them for a bargain
Estimated Savings: Less Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 5 Minutes

66. Befriend Store Managers Befriend the store managers in charge of the produce, meat, dairy, and seafood departments. They can tell you what time of day food is marked down and help steer you towards the best deals.

First Action Step: Research ways to make small talk comfortably.
Estimated Savings: Less Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 5 Minutes
Further Resources:
Reader Tip: Negotiating Prices at the SuperMarket

67. Cancel Warranties on Inexpensive Items Never buy extended warranties on products like cameras or kitchen appliances. Warranties only make sense if repairs would empty your emergency fund.

First Action Step: Cancel warranties on items under several hundred dollars.
Estimated Savings: Less Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 15 Minutes

33 Ways to Save on Household Expenses Day to day living offers the most numerous opportunities for savings. Individually they don't count for as much, but add them together and you could well earn your $1,000 from this section alone.

68. Make and Commit to a Budget Use money management tools - online or spreadsheets - that will help you better control your spending.

First Action Step: Make a budget.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 30 Minutes
Further Resources:
How To Make A Budget In 10 Easy Steps

69. Get the Sunday Paper for Coupons Switch newspaper subscription to Sunday only for the coupons.

First Action Step: Call your newspaper and change your subscription.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 10 Minutes

70. DIYers: Buy Quality Tools Buy the best tools you can afford to make home repairs and gardening easier. Excellent, padded, battery powered and ergonomic tools you love will make it much harder for you to hire others to do the work!

First Action Step: Research high quality tools when you know you're going to be using them regularly, and for years.
Estimated Savings: Less Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 15 Minutes

71. Switch to Cloth Diapers Consider switching to cloth diapers to save money over disposables. Save even more by buying used cloth diapers, and using cloth for multiple children.

First Action Step: Learn more about how cloth diapers will benefit you, your wallet, your baby and the environment.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 15 Minutes
Further Resources:
Cloth Diapering: Does It Save Enough Money To Be Worth The Extra Effort?

72. Sell Unused Stuff Sell the stuff you don't use to earn money and clear some space. Sell through garage sales, local swap meets, and online through Craigslist.

First Action Step: Make a list of things to sell, then learn about selling safely and profitably on Craigslist.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 30 Minutes
Further Resources:
A Seller's Guide to Craigslist

73. Make Cleaning Supplies Instead of buying cleaning supplies try baking soda, vinegar, and Borax. With some elbow grease there is almost nothing these won't clean.

First Action Step: Read our resources and make a list of items and chemicals in your house that you can use for cleaning.
Estimated Savings: Less Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 15 Minutes
Further Resources:
25 Safe, Non-toxic, Homemade Cleaning Supplies
Homemade Cleaners

74. Request Discount on Trash Service Trash collection is a highly competitive business. Shop around and ask your current company to beat any better offers you find.

First Action Step: Call your trash service and ask for a discount.
Estimated Savings: Less Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 10 Minutes

75. Organize Your Bill Paying Get your bills organized to avoid missed payments, which result in penalties. If you miss a credit card payment, call your creditor and ask to have the penalty removed. They'll usually accommodate the request if it's your first time and your excuse is reasonable.

First Action Step: Research financial organization methods. Pick one and put it in action!
Estimated Savings: Less Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 15 Minutes
Further Resources:
How to Organize Your Finances in Four Easy Steps

76. Shop at the ReStore Instead of Big Box Hardware Stores Check to see if you have a Habitat For Humanity's "ReStore" Facilities in your area. Prices are 50-70% lower than they are at any big box retailer, and you never know what you'll find.

First Action Step: Find your local Restore.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 1 Minute
Further Resources:
Habitat Restore Locator

77. Agree to Limit Gift Giving Agree in advance to limit gift giving and come up with creative ways to show love. This saves everybody some money.

First Action Step: Write an email to your family about reducing gift giving expenses. Make it a proposal, not a demand! Send it.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 20 Minutes
Further Resources:
8 Rules for a Frugal Christmas

78. Exploit Natural Light Use skylights and well-placed mirrors to reflect natural light and help reduce lighting costs.

First Action Step: Price skylights and find locations in your house where mirrors could help spread light around.
Estimated Savings: Less Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 15 Minutes
Further Resources:
Reducing Lighting Costs

79. Save Water Every Time You Flush Put one or two 1 quart mason jars in the tank of your toilet. Keep the lid off the jars so the water stays fresh.

First Action Step: Put open jars in your toilet tanks.
Estimated Savings: Less Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 2 Minutes
Further Resources:
19 ways to reduce water use around your home
25 Painless Ways You Can Reduce Your Water Consumption

80. Learn to Sew Learn the basics of sewing. You don't even need to buy a sewing machine, just learn basic proficiency with needle and thread for button replacement and small rip repairs.

First Action Step: Read about the basics of sewing and make a list of needed supplies.
Estimated Savings: Less Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 30 Minutes
Further Resources:
How to Sew

81. Find a Roommate If you're renting and have an extra bedroom, find a roommate and share the rent.

First Action Step: Write a classified ad and post it on Craigslist.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 20 Minutes
Further Resources:
How To Find a Roommate

82. Renegotiate Your Rent Log on to sites like http://rentometer.com to find out whether your payments are reasonable for your area. If not, call your landlord to negotiate.

First Action Step: Check local rent rates and call your landlord.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 15 Minutes
Further Resources:
How To Negotiate Your Rent
Reason #39: How to Negotiate Your Rent

83. Research Major Appliance Purchases When buying major appliances search online for reviews and ratings on specific appliance brands and models, as well as ways to evaluate them, including energy use. Once you've selected a specific brand and model, check the Internet or yellow pages to learn what stores carry the brand. Call at least four of these stores to compare prices and ask if that's the lowest price they can offer you. This comparison shopping can save you as much as $100 or more.

First Action Step: Look for appliance reviews online. Check out appliance discussions in forums as well.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 30 Minutes
Further Resources:
The Best Time to Buy Guide for 45 Products and Services
Buying appliances: 25,000 readers help you find the real deals

84. Use "Paperless" Paper Towels Save cardboard tubes from paper towel rolls. Then buy two yards of white cotton flannel and cut it into paper-towel-sized squares. Stitch around the edges of each one and roll them up onto the tubes. When dirty, wash them in hot water with bleach, dry them in the dryer without a dryer sheet and roll them onto another tube. Go for an entirely paperless household!

First Action Step: Add flannel to your shopping list. Make a note to save cardboard tubes.
Estimated Savings: Less Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 1 Minute
Further Resources:
Saving Money on Paper Towels
Ditch Paper Towels for Cloth, Save Money

85. Get Multiple Bids Select from among several well established, licensed contractors who have submitted written, fixed-price bids for any home repair work. Do not sign any contract that requires full payment before satisfactory completion of the work.

First Action Step: Arrange for at least 4 bids on your next improvement project.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 30 Minutes
Further Resources:
Top Five Home Renovation Tips
10 Grand in My Hand

86. Appeal Your Property Tax Bill You may be paying too much in property taxes. Get a copy of your home's assessment from your local assessor's office and compare it with assessments on similar houses in your area. About 75% of appeals result in a reduction of taxes.

First Action Step: Call your assessor and ask for a copy of your home assessment.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 20 Minutes
Further Resources:
DIY: Don't pay for home reassessment

87. Buy a Large Freezer, Buy Food in Bulk Buy a large freezer begin shopping in bulk. For example, buy a 10 lb container of hamburger and break it up into 1 lb bags. That way you don't have to go out to shop as often, too.

First Action Step: Research good freezers and wait for one to go on sale.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 15 Minutes

88. Rent Out a Room If you have a multiple room apartment or house then rent out a room to a young professional.

First Action Step: Learn about the legalities and best practices of renting out the extra room in your house.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 20 Minutes
Further Resources:
How to Rent Out Your Spare Room?

89. Vacuum Seal Your Wine Bottles Get a vacuum sealer for wine and champagne so you don't waste spoiled, half-empty bottle.

First Action Step: Add "vacuum sealer" to your shopping list if you're a bottled wine drinker.
Estimated Savings: Less Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 1 Minute

90. Decorate for Less Cut out and frame pages from an old art or architecture coffee table books instead of buying expensive prints. There are hundreds of frugal decorating ideas on the Internet!

First Action Step: Add "used coffee table books" to your thrift store list.
Estimated Savings: Less Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 1 Minute
Further Resources:
Frugal Decorating Ideas

91. No Impulse Pets Pets - both small and large - can cost a fortune in veterinarian bills and food. Never, ever buy a pet on impulse, or as an undiscussed gift.

First Action Step: If you're considering a pet, research costs first.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 10 Minutes
Further Resources:
Estimating Annual Pet Costs

92. Move to a Smaller Apartment There are many options should you choose to downsize your apartment. Move to a lower floor with no view, give up some perks or even move into the basement to save on rent.

First Action Step: Start the apartment search and set up appointments to view 3 appartments.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 30 Minutes

93. Consider VoIP Consider VoIP telephone service. The service has gotten very reliable, and most of the time you can't tell you're talking over the Internet.

First Action Step: Research VOiP options and find the one that works best for your needs.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 20 Minutes
Further Resources:
Cheap home phone service: switch to VoIP

94. Share Childcare Costs Split nanny or other sitter services with a friend or family member. If you're all going out together, why not share the costs?

First Action Step: Send out a group email to your friends - who is willing to share childcare costs?
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 5 Minutes
Further Resources:
Frugal Childcare

95. Time Your Heating and Cooling Upgrades Carefully Upgrade air conditioners in winter and heating units in summer. Never put off repairs until the hot or cold hits - that's what everyone else does and prices always go up.

First Action Step: Call several local HVAC providers and get bids.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 20 Minutes
Further Resources:
Ways to Reduce Lighting Costs

96. Go Stampless The average household spends about $79 a year on postage. Save time and money by signing up with the billers' customer-service departments to have your bills paid by credit card or automatic debit. Also consider post cards at the holidays instead of cards!

First Action Step: Sign up for all auto-bill and auto-payment plans available through your providers.
Estimated Savings: Less Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 15 Minutes
Further Resources:
Automated Bill Payments Are a Cinch (Not So Fast)
When Should You Use Automatic Bill Pay?

97. Cancel Your Landline If you have a cell phone be sure to cancel your landline if you have no compelling reason to keep it.

First Action Step: Call and cancel your landline if you have a cell phone.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 10 Minutes

98. Evaluate Your Cell Phone Usage Reevaluate your cell phone plan once a year, preferably with an agent from your provider. Make sure you're using everything you have. Be aggressive and tenacious in your call and demand straight answers!

First Action Step: Call your cell company and ask them to report on your usage statistics, and ask them to help you find the best deal.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 30 Minutes
Further Resources:
Should you cancel your cell phone?

99. Consider Prepaid Plans for Infrequent Use If you talk for fewer than 200 minutes monthly you should have a prepaid plan. Experts estimate that as many as 30% of mobile users who are not on a prepaid plan should be.

First Action Step: Call your cell company and ask them to report on your usage statistics.
Estimated Savings: More Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 10 Minutes
Further Resources:
Save Money on Your Cell Phone Bill
15 Ways to Save Money On Your Cell Phone Bill

100. Laser Printer Instead of Ink Jet Buy a desktop laser printer, not an inkjet. The printer and toner are more expensive up-front but a typical toner cartridge pumps out 5,000+ sheets (as opposed to the roughly 500-100 that an ink cartridge can do). If a black cartridge costs $20 and the toner is $80, you've saved $120 or more.

First Action Step: Research laser printers. Pick the best one and watch for it on Craigslist.
Estimated Savings: Less Than $100 a Year
Estimated Time for First Step: 15 Minutes

The Power of the First Step

Getting control of your financial life can feel completely overwhelming. We hope this guide helps you take those crucial first steps that will help you build momentum towards true savings. Start now - it's never too late to learn the joy of financial achievement. More Money Saving Resources These are our inspirations for this list!
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