STON bot Trimming Monthly Expenses by John Addison (NAPSA)—There are some simple ways to limit monthly spending without drastically changing yourlifestyle. Still, more Americans say they’re tightening their belts and feeling the squeeze. In fact, a new poll shows that 30 percent of people in the U.S. have cut back on food, medicine and other daily necessities. So what are somerelatively painless ways to cut back on spending? Try these tips: Cut Food Spending Sure you have to eat, but you don’t have to go broke. Start with a list and stick to only what you need—forget brand loyalty and pick P= bw A generic or sale items. You mightalso enroll in your grocery store’s coupon club or ‘Ta similar program. —\— your weekly grocery bill adds up to more than $200 a year. And instead of taking the family out for dinner, consider going to breakfast instead. The entres are usually much cheaper, and you canstill enjoy dining out together. Trim Entertainment Costs Instead of going out to the movies, visit the library, where you can rent DVDs (usually classics and newer titles) for free. Theyalso often carry copies of the latest book releases. Borrow just two books or movies a month that you would otherwise buy or rent and you save $120 to $240 a year. Also, look into bundling cable, telephone and Internet services with one company and consider negotiating for lower rates. If you can reduce fees just $20 a month, you'll save $240 a year. Shave Insurance Could you pay less for your auto or homeowner’s insurance? Consider shopping your coverage around to different providers to see how much you mightsave. Cut Cards Fewer than 40 percent of respondents in a survey could determine how manyyears it would take for the amount of money they owe on their credit cards to double. Understand what you owe and work to payit off quickly. Carrying credit card debt leaves you vulnerable to fluctuating rates and fees that can affect your monthly budget—and the total amount you ultimately pay on a card. Learn More Financial professionals at Primerica have created a guide that can show howto take control of your financiallife. To get a copy of “How Money Works,” write to Primerica, 3120 Breckinridge Blvd., Duluth, GA 30099, ATTN: Corporate Relations, or call (770) 564-6329. For more information, visit www.primerica.com. John Addison is co-CEO of Primerica, a subsidiary of Citi- group, Inc.
