Tips for Being a Better Saver

We’ve all heard that American households don’t save enough. At around 4.3% of income, many families are not amassing a nest egg large enough to weather a family emergency, invest in retirement, or deploy savings strategically: say, to make large purchases with cash and avoid costly payment plans. The results can be devastating. Luckily, all hope is not lost. There is low hanging fruit available for any family that wants to boost its savings rate.

Keep Your Service Providers on their Toes

If you dutifully pay your phone, cable and utility bills year after year, your service providers love you. They’ve likely ratcheted their prices upward, hoping you’ll just keep paying. Call to let them know that you’re a valuable customer and that you’re exploring other providers. It can lead to savings of $10-20 per month.