Do you want to know the best ways to save money when you're earning minimum wage? Most people know the importance of a savings account however, if you're only earning minimum wage, saving money can be a bit of a challenge. But don't give up on your savings efforts. Here are seven of the best ways to save money when you're earning minimum wage.
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1. Don’t Add New Debt
Avoiding debt is one of the best ways to save money when you're earning minimum wage. Even if you have existing debt, avoiding new debt can point you in the right direction. For the time being, focus on paying off your current debt. And once this debt has been eliminated, put the money you would have spent on minimum payments into your savings account.
2. Hoard Free Money
Instead of splurging when you receive free money, make a habit of hoarding this money. This is an excellent way to build your savings account if you don't have enough disposable income. Free money can come from anywhere, such as a tax refund, a work bonus, birthday money or any other type of gift money. If possible, deposit this cash into an online high-yield savings account, or a money market account. You will earn a higher rate and grow your money quicker.
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3. Save Coins
This might seem like an insignificant move, but saving all of your coins can generate a nice chunk of cash. Place a jar or plastic container somewhere in your house, and each day when you return home, toss your spare change into this jar. Once a year, or once every other year, take the rolled coins to the bank and deposit the money into your savings account.
4. Round up
Ask your bank about special savings programs. For example, some banks have round up programs where debit card purchases are rounded up to the nearest dollar, and then the bank deposits the difference into your savings account.
5. Use Coupons
It doesn’t matter whether you're shopping for groceries or buying clothes for yourself, never spend a dime without having a coupon; and if possible, look for coupons that you can combine with a sale or clearance. This results in tremendous savings, thus freeing up cash and increasing your disposable income.
6. Get Rid of Your Car
Even if you own your car free and clear, the cost of ownership might be too much for you at the present time. If you live in an area with abundant public transportation, consider getting rid of your car and putting the savings into your savings account. Without a car, you'll save on routine maintenance, gasoline, auto insurance and personal property taxes.
7. Sell What You Can
Look around your house and see what you can get rid of. Maybe there's a piece of furniture or electronics that take up too much space. Or maybe your closet is overflowing with clothes that you never wear. Have a yard sale, take these items to a consignment shop, or put them up for sale on craigslist.
It's hard to make ends meet when you're earning minimum wage and because you don't earn a lot, saving money might be the last thing on your mind. But even if you earn a little, there are creative ways to boost your savings account and build your emergency fund. What are other tips for saving when you earn minimum wage?
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