Watch CBS News

How To Save On Those Fixed Expenses

BOSTON (CBS) - So what can you save on your fixed expenses?

If you have a variable rate mortgage you should consider refinancing to a fixed rate as soon as possible.

If you are single and you own your home do you want a roommate? The hassle of a roommate may be worth the extra income of a $1,000 a month.

If you're paying rent, is your place big enough for you to take in a roommate? Would it be okay with the landlord? It could cut your expenses in half.

Insurance, review your policies. Ask your agent how you can save.

Your computer monitor draws more energy than the hard drive. Make sure it turns itself off when you're not using it. Unplug all of those chargers when not using them. Phones, toothbrushes, baby monitors all draw power when they are plugged in.

And when you buy any new appliances look for the Energy Star logo so you know you'll be saving on energy costs.

Cable bills– do you need all that you have contracted for. How many movies a month can you watch? Saving $50 a month is $600 a year. Consider bundling your phone and cable.

Phone bills– if you have a landline and a cell phone, consider just getting a basic service for the landline and using your cell phone for long distance calls.

If you use your cell phone a lot be sure you look at the family plans or the Verizon plan where you can call other Verizon customers for free. Everyone in our family has a Verizon plan and we put in a lot of time talking to each other.

With the price of gas increasing you just may want to consider public transportation or carpooling,

And some grocery stores and warehouse clubs like BJ's offer cheap gas for their members. And it does not make any sense driving around looking for cheap gas.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.