When you hear the word frugal, it automatically brings up negative connotations and is often mistaken for being cheap.  In reality, frugalness is a traditional value where  people are careful in the expenditure of money or the use of material resources.  In American culture where consumers are constantly bombarded with advertising and pressured to spend, spend, spend, saving money has become a rarity.  According to the Bureau of Economic Analysis, the US personal savings rate as a percentage of disposable income decreased to –0.4 percent at the end of 2005.  It might be time to rethink your definition of frugal and begin to think of it as being wise with your money and not wasteful.  Not only will you be able to save, but you’ll set a good example for your children.  Here are some things you can do in your household, beginning now!

• Take advantage of your local library.  These are your tax dollars at work.  Buying books and movies, or renting, can add up.  Besides books, most libraries have video and DVD collections to check out, free of charge. 
• Eat out less often.  Eating at home can save you a lot of money, and it’s probably healthier.  If you go out twice a week, try scaling back to once a week.  When you do go out, try not to be wasteful.  Children’s meals often go uneaten.  Try splitting a regular meal for two kids.
• Cook with what is in the pantry.  Often times we run out to the grocery store to pick up ingredients for a meal when you have all sorts of stuff on your shelves.  Challenge yourself to use what you have Clip coupons.  Tedious you say?  It can be, but if you stick to the items that you buy on a regular basis, it’s money in your pocket.  Find a grocery store in your area that doubles coupons and you’ll save even more.
• Pay your bills online.  You’ll save stamps, time and maybe some late fees if you set up automatic payments.
• Hire yourself.  Although it may be a matter of convenience, a lot of things that you pay others to do can be done yourself, such as oil changes, mowing the lawn, and cleaning.Wash laundry in cold water.  Washing in cold water can cut your electric bill substantially, yet still get the clothes clean.
• Turn your lights off!  This may bring back fond memories of your parents shouting this at you when you were growing up, but, it really does make a difference in your electric bill.

Whether you live paycheck to paycheck or make a comfortable living, it’s wise to take a closer look at how you debt your money and not waste.  Creating more opportunities to save is simply being wise with your money.

About Christian Credit Counselors:

Christian Credit Counselors is a national, non-profit organization dedicated to helping consumers achieve financial wellness through counseling and education. Established in 1994, Christian Credit Counselors has provided Christian credit counseling to over two million individuals nationwide. Christian Credit Counselors is one of the top members of the American Association of Debt Management Organizations (AADMO), Christian Credit Counselors provides personalized and confidential consultations in person, by phone or online. Visit Christian Credit Counselors or call 800-557-1985.

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Christian Credit Counseling

When you’re faced with the having to deal with debt collectors, it can be one of the most devastating times in your life.  Constant mail, annoying phone calls, even embarrassing calls to your employer or family can really cause a lot of stress. Following these tips can help you alleviate some of the problems.

Know what you owe.  It may sound obvious, but make sure you know the amounts owed and to whom.  Mistakes can be made—you could be hounded for a debt that isn’t yours.  Examine balances, interest charges, and other fees.

Know your rights.  Debt collectors are obligated to treat you fairly and not use coercive tactics to collect the money.  They must abide by the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act.  Go to www.ftc.gov for more detailed information.

Organize and prioritize your bills.  No matter what a debt collector tells you, necessary bills, such as electricity and heating, need to be on the top of your priority list.

Keep the conversation simple and focused.  Don’t go on with your life story and divulge other private information, like where you work or bank account numbers.

Assert your right to privacy.  Ask for all future contact to be in writing, rather that on the phone.  If your don’t want them to call anymore, tell them. 

Keep detailed records.  Track all phone calls and correspondence.  Make sure you note the agency name and the name of the person with whom you speak.

Don’t agree to anything you can’t afford or to something that will cause more problems.  Avoid sending post-dated checks and don’t allow electronic payments from your account.

Get proof of any payment agreement in writing.  If you come to an agreement for an amount, ask for it in writing.  When you make the payment, include a letter outlining the payment agreement. 

If a payment plan cannot be agreed upon, you may want to look professional advice from Christian Credit Counselors.  Go to www.CCone.org for more information.

About Christian Credit Counselors:

Christian Credit Counselors is a national, non-profit organization dedicated to helping consumers achieve financial wellness through counseling and education. Established in 1994, Christian Credit Counselors has provided Christian credit counseling to over two million individuals nationwide. Christian Credit Counselors is one of the top members of the American Association of Debt Management Organizations (AADMO), Christian Credit Counselors provides personalized and confidential consultations in person, by phone or online. Visit Christian Credit Counselors or call 800-557-1985.