From the monthly archives:

January 2009

File your taxes early (& cheap)

by Karen on January 21, 2009

photo by 427 We should be receiving our W2s in the mail in the next couple weeks. I always try to file within two weeks of receiving all of my paperwork. It’s better to get it out of the way, right? Be sure you’ve collected all of your documentation, including W2s, interest paid to mortgages [...]

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Frugal extras that bring me joy

by Karen on January 20, 2009

Between the economy, the freezing temperatures throughout the country, and the post-holiday blues, everyone can use a pick-me-up right now. I know I can. In the past, I often used money as a method of cheering myself up. If I was feeling down, I’d spend. But that only led to guilt and more depression when [...]

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Menu Plan & Grocery Round Up: 1/17-1/23

by Karen on January 19, 2009

Despite the extra healthy snack foods on our list, this week’s total was back within our budget. Yay! Our total for the week was $54. And I feel like our cart was stuffed! Here’s our menu plan for the week: Saturday: Chicken & vegetable pot pie (We used a store-bought pie crust to make the [...]

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Be wary of liquidation sales

by Karen on January 18, 2009

I came across this video, and I couldn’t resist posting it. Just as I suspected, liquidation prices aren’t necessarily the best deals. No matter where you’re purchasing an item, make sure you’ve done your homework to ensure you’re getting the lowest possible price. In the end, the supposed “percentage off” is less important than the [...]

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A few months ago, I wrote about a surprise bill I received from my dentist. Even though my insurance covers X-rays, preventative exams & two cleanings a year, I received a bill for an extra X-ray that wasn’t covered. I decided to keep a closer watch on the procedures being performed on me in future [...]

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TGIF Round Up: Totally Fried Edition

by Karen on January 16, 2009

Do you ever have those weeks where it feels like it’s just piling on one thing after another? That’s the kind of week I’ve had. One thing after another. I’m adjusting to my new schedule, which includes an hour at the gym before I come home every night. Losing that hour has had a surprising [...]

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photo by nataliej All over the blogosphere, I’ve been reading posts with very helpful ideas for frugal weight loss. I’ve even written on the topic myself (basic budgeting can help you lose weight without spending money). I once lost 40 pounds without a gym membership or any special equipment (though I did spend a fortune [...]

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Keep tabs on your health insurance claims

by Karen on January 14, 2009

We’re all aware of the dangers of identity theft these days. Most people keep a close watch on their bank accounts, credit card statements, and credit reports to ensure they’re not being victimized. This week I had a scare that made me realize my credit report isn’t the only way my identity could be stolen. [...]

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The second most frugal way to buy contacts

by Karen on January 13, 2009

The best way to save money on contacts is to wear glasses instead. You can get a great deal at online discount stores like Zenni Optical, and a good pair of glasses will long outlast your supply of contact lenses. I’ve had the same pair of glasses for two years, and they’re still in great [...]

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