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Spend Smart, Save Smart Tips

Ten Tips for Managing Money

Track your spending. Keep weekly and monthly totals to prevent overspending.
Develop a realistic budget and stick to it!
Instead of buying an item, think of alternate ways of getting it, like borrowing or sharing.
If necessary, go on a spending or credit “diet.” Have a “spend nothing week.”
Shop with a list. It will help you avoid impulse buying.
Think twice before buying. Ask yourself, “do I really need this?”
Pay more than the minimum on credit card payments. You’ll pay off the balance faster, and save more by paying less in interest.
Pay bills on time to avoid late charges and a negative credit report.
Plan for savings. You should have at least 3 months of savings in reserve.
Go to the More for Your Money website, http://moreforyourmoney.extension.uiuc.edu, for more information on how to better understand your money and use it wisely.