Organize to Save Money

Swap Savers Price Sheet.xls
Swap Savers Shopping List.xls
Swap Savers Gift List.xls



Organization is a key component to saving money. Here are some tips to help you get organized.

Bills In order to avoid late fees, you have to pay your bills on time. Create a designated bill in-box in your home office or any area you frequent, as a reminder to pay your bills. Order the bills with the most recent due date on top. You can also mark your calendar to remind yourself to pay the bills. You should mail your bills at least one week before the bills are due or if you pay your bills on-line through your bank sometimes you only have to pay the day before. Another option is to pay the bill on the business website (i.e. a credit card company) which usually allows you to pay the same day the bill is due. Automatic bill pay is another option to avoid fees when paying your insurance. You also should mark the date on your calendar of when the automatic bill pay is deducted to make sure you have the money in your account otherwise you may incur fees for insufficient funds in your bank account.

Coupons You can use a coupon organizer (see my blog post) or any method which works for you. It is important to organize your coupons in order to use the coupons before they expire and to remember to use the coupons when shopping. If you do forget to bring the coupons with you to the store, the next time you are at the store ask customer service if they will reimburse you for the coupons.

Price List Create a price list of items you shop for on a regular basis. Include the size/weight of the item along with the price and store purchased. This way you will know when you see a great deal. You can keep this sheet in your coupon organizer and take it with you when you shop. I have attached a sample of the price list for you to download and use.

Shopping List Create a shopping list with items you shop for on a regular basis. You can add or delete item before you shop. You can also make a notation if you have a coupon to use for the item and attach the coupons to the list. You can keep a copy of the list in your coupon organizer. I have attached a sample of the shopping list for you to download and use.

Plan your Meals When you plan your meals for the week, especially before you go grocery shopping, you will avoid impulsive spending at the grocery store and you will avoid ordering a meal out or eating at a restaurant.

Gift List Create a gift list of people you purchase gifts for and possible gift ideas. Include the person’s birthday or occasions you purchase the gifts for the person. When you are shopping or browsing through store circulars, keep the list in mind and purchase the gifts when they are on sale or if you have a coupon for the item even if the person’s birthday or other occasion is months away. Most stores allow you to return an item 3 months after the purchase. Check the stores return policy before making the purchase. I have attached a sample of the gift list for you to download and use.