Easy Tips To Reduce Your Cost Of Living And Survive Recession

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Copyright © 2009 Fred Vanhoosen


Recession is a period of general economic decline and we need to prepare for it. Surviving the recession is much easier when you are prepared for it.

Here are some tips for surviving the current economic crisis.

Don't panic, keep your senses open and pay great attention to the market news. Only a thorough knowledge about recession will help you to cope up with the situation. Read books, visit public libraries, gather information etc.

Calculate your total monthly necessary expenses as well as your total monthly discretionary expenses. Your total necessary expenses are those that must be paid even if you lose your job. Clearing your mortgage or rent, your gas and electric bills, groceries, your minimum credit card payments are a necessary expense.

A discretionary expense is an expense you can eliminate without a substantial penalty. Cable TV, the pool membership, and meals out are all discretionary expenses. You can get rid of your discretionary expenses. Get rid of anything that is a waste of money or is no longer needed.

You can also trim or cut back some of your expenses. Save on heating and air conditioning. Turn off lights and appliances when not in use. Cut back on the number of times you eat out. Cut back on entertainment in general. Instead of going to a movie and spending money on popcorn, rent a movie and pop some microwave popcorn.

Try to make dinners and lunches that are more economical.

If you have always paid your bills on time and are in good standing with your credit card companies, ask them to reduce your interest rate.

Making these small changes can add up to a few bucks a month.

Spend wisely and prudently.

Always keep an emergency fund with you.

Keep your budget with you at all times. Before you spend money on something, look at the budget. By constantly referring to your budget, you will be reminded of your goal. Stay focused and determined.

Keep your budget updated.

Money breeds money, hence try to find out alternative sectors where you can make money. Be positive and invest in them because recession always creates opportunity. Try to earn as much as possible by making smart moves and decisions.

If you lose your job due to recession, never get depressed or feel bad about it. Use your skills to earn as much as you can. Change your field if you want.

If somehow you struggle to make mortgage payments, keep calm and think for the best possible option. May be you can opt for extending the mortgage payment period or may be you can temporarily do away with the interest.

Never try to get your hand on any additional major loans or debts. It may only deteriorate your current situation.

For some, these tips may be easy. Others may need to make some lifestyle decisions.

The choice is yours. But for peace of mind, it is better to cut back your expenses now than to be short of money should the unfortunate happen.


About the Author:
Fred Vanhoosen writes about money issues. While he recommends that one should be careful about using cash advance loans in times of dire need, he also knows that sometimes we need fast access to fast money to cover an unexpected expense. When that happens, Fred recommends http://www.fastcash4all.net/ for your payday loan needs.


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