God and Money
Eric Lucan

 
How would you like to save $100 a month?  For the past 4 weeks, we have been covering the topic of God and Money in our Sunday morning gatherings, and we have looked at the spiritual application as well as some practical ideas.  For this lifeblog, I thought I would list few concrete ideas and options that, if explored, just might save each of us some money every month.  I know this might not be the most "spiritual" lifeblog, but if we utilize the savings to bless others or bless the Lord, then it will have a return effect.
 
1. Shop around your car insurance - Start by just calling your insurance company and see if you are eligible for any discounts.  Also, just updating the mileage of how far you drive each day can have a huge savings if the mileage is less.  Then get a few more quotes and choose the best.  Do the same with your homeowners insurance. Estimated savings: $15/month

 

2. Reassess your house for property tax purposes - Did you buy a house in the past 3-4 years?  If so, there is a good chance you are paying too much in property taxes each year.  Contact your county assessor/recorders office and ask to have your home reassessed. Estimated savings: $100/month

 

3. Eliminate your home phone line - Many people are switching to just using cell phones in their house.  This could produce a nice annual savings. Estimated savings: $25/month

 

4. Downscale your cable - Does anyone really need 900 channels?  Call your cable or satellite provider and see if they have any current promotions you can apply for.  If they say no, consider moving to a competitor to take advantage of promotional offers. Estimated savings: $15/month

 

5. Stop paying bank fees - Most banks offer free checking with direct deposit.  If your bank charges you monthly maintenance fees, go into your branch today and find out how to eliminate the reoccurring fees. Estimated savings: $10/month

 
These are just some examples, but they can produce huge savings over the long run.  If you want to look for even more savings, start by evaluating any reoccurring monthly payments such as blockbuster/netflix, magazine or newspaper subscriptions, cell phone, internet, etc.  However, in the case of unused monthly gym memberships, rather than cancel, it is often better to just utilize it.  If you happen to find savings in one area, share it with others and encourage them to do the same.