Keep records of every dollar you earn and spend. Classify your expenditures as fixed essentials (things you need and will always cost about the same amount, like your phone bill), variable essentials (things you need but which vary in cost from month to month, such as gas or food), and non-essentials (things you want but don’t necessarily need). There are many ways to keep track of your budget. While numerous computer programs and smartphone apps exist that can make this process simple, an ordinary Excel spreadsheet will also work fine, as will an old-fashioned ledger book or ordinary lined paper.
You can spend less on utilities if you use less energy. Make sure to turn off all appliances when not in use, and unplug them when they won’t be used for an extended period of time. Every degree you reduce your thermostat will also save you between one and three percent on your heating bill. The average person spends about $600 dollars a year on phone service. Especially if you are paying more than that, you may want to look into finding a less expensive plan. [2] X Trustworthy Source US Bureau of Labor Statistics U. S. government agency that collects and reports labor-related information Go to source If you subscribe to cable television, consider going without for a while. Many of the shows you’re watching are probably available for free online. Drive less, if you can. If you live somewhere with a decent public transportation system, you’ll probably find that it’s cheaper than gas and parking. You can also save thousands of dollars a year by carpooling. [3] X Research source
Switch to generics. Most generic medications do exactly the same thing as the name brand versions, but at a fraction of the cost. Visit in-store pharmacy clinics. For minor ailments, this can be a cheaper alternative to a regular doctor, especially if you don’t have insurance. [4] X Research source Get a free checkup at your local dental school. Many dental schools will give you a free checkup and cleaning as a way to train their students. [5] X Research source
Depending on where you live, you may also be able to save a lot of money by moving to a different neighborhood. You may even want to consider moving to a different part of the country (i. e. one where the cost of living is lower and/or job opportunities are more plentiful) if this is an option.
Plan meals in advance so you can use what you already have in your kitchen and take advantage of sales at the grocery store. This makes cooking at home even cheaper.
Avoid getting a “pay day” loan. These small loans come at a high cost. Often, the amount you will have to pay back will be nearly three times the amount of the loan. These loans should be used only as a last resort. [8] X Research source
Food banks are typically run by independent charitable organizations and churches in your local community, so you should be able to track one down on-line. If you’re having trouble finding out where the food bank is in your community this website describes many food banks around the nation, though it is not an exhaustive list. Similar services exist to help you meet your clothing needs. These clothing banks are are run by churches and other private charities, sometimes at the same site as your local food bank. If your food bank doesn’t have a clothing bank and you need some clothes, the volunteers at the food bank may be able to tell you where these services are available.
In most states, you can apply for SNAP online. Links to each state’s application page are available here.
Funds for TANF are provided to states in block grants from The Administration for Children and Families (ACF), a division of the Department of Health & Human Services. It is up to each individual state to distribute these funds. You can find information about your state’s requirements and application processes by visiting the ACF’s website and selecting your state. TANF benefits are available for a maximum of five years, and recipients typically must demonstrate that they are making an effort to become self-sufficient. [11] X Research source
Like TANF, Section 8 housing is administered at the state level. To find your local Public Housing Authority and apply for a HUD voucher, visit the HUD website and select your state.
Like many of the programs discussed above, this assistance is provided at the state level. To find out who to contact for information about assistance in your state, visit the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Childcare website.
The NSLP website also provides other valuable information about how create low-cost healthy meals and snacks for your children.
In some states, free classes are offered to help you prepare for the GED. The test itself also may or may not be free, depending on the state in which you live. You can find information about how to get a GED in your state here.
Participating in one of these programs may partially fulfill the requirements for TANF benefits.
You may think you could never afford a college education, but the Department of Education may be able to offer you a student loan or grant that could put college within your reach. While funding has decreased some in recent years, federal aid can make a less-expensive options like community college a real possibility for many people. To see what options they might make available to you, visit their website and file a Free Application For Student Aid (FAFSA).
Many people get jobs through their social networks, so it’s a good idea to make sure your friends and family know you are looking for opportunities. [14] X Research source There are numerous websites that exist to connect employers with potential employees that are worth exploring.
Carefully read the description and application requirements for any job you apply for. Then, make sure that your application is complete and responds to every major requirement in the job description. For example, your resume and cover letter should feature key words and ideas found in the job description. Neither the letter or resume should be generic, but instead should make it clear why you are a good fit for the job and the job is a good fit for you. [15] X Research source Make sure your application materials are easy to read and free of spelling and grammatical errors. If possible, have someone else check your work. As you start applying for jobs, make sure there is nothing to embarrass you on social network profiles such as your Facebook page. Any pictures of you drinking, dressed provocatively, or otherwise suggesting you are unprofessional should be removed, or your privacy settings should make these images unavailable to potential employers. Checking applicants’ social networking profiles has become a very common practice among employers. [16] X Research source
At the start of the interview, shake hands with the interviewer. Smile and try to relax, no matter how nervous you may be. Listen carefully to the questions you are asked, and answer them in a direct way and with a positive attitude. Try to emphasize why you would be a good candidate for the job using concrete examples.
