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Earn a high-yield savings rate with JG Wentworth Debt Relief
Trying to save money when you’re struggling to pay off debt can become a frustrating vicious cycle. What do you prioritize? How do you get started? This article offers practical strategies for different groups to save money while managing debt payments, focusing on realistic approaches that can work alongside debt obligations. After all, where there’s a will there’s always a way…
Essential money-saving strategies for everyone
Here are some go-to tips and tricks for anyone wanting to cut costs and increase their savings:
Optimize housing costs
Housing typically represents the largest monthly expense for most people. Consider these approaches to reduce costs:
- Evaluate cheaper neighborhoods or smaller living spaces.
- Find a reliable roommate to split costs.
- Negotiate with landlords for better rates in exchange for longer lease terms.
- For homeowners, refinance if possible to lower monthly payments.
- Rent spare rooms or parking spaces for extra income.
Reduce utility bills
Small changes in utility usage can lead to significant savings:
- Install LED bulbs and use natural light when possible.
- Use programmable thermostats to optimize heating/cooling.
- Fix leaky faucets and running toilets promptly.
- Take advantage of off-peak utility rates.
- Use cold water for laundry and air-dry clothes when possible.
- Conduct an energy audit to identify major waste areas.
Smart food shopping and meal planning
Food costs can be dramatically reduced without sacrificing nutrition:
- Plan meals around sales and seasonal produce.
- Buy in bulk for non-perishable items and frequently used products.
- Use apps to compare prices across stores and find the best deals.
- Cook meals in large batches and freeze portions.
- Grow basic herbs and vegetables if space permits.
- Use loyalty programs and cashback apps for additional savings.
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Specific strategies for low-income individuals
If you’re making ends meet on a low income, here are some ways you can optimize your savings:Transportation savings
Transportation costs can be significantly reduced through careful planning:- Research public transportation options and monthly passes.
- Evaluate walking or cycling for shorter distances.
- Join or create a carpool for work commutes.
- If car ownership is necessary, learn basic maintenance tasks.
- Compare insurance rates annually and bundle policies when beneficial.
Healthcare cost management
Healthcare expenses can be minimized through preventive measures:- Research sliding-scale medical clinics in your area.
- Use community health centers for routine care.
- Ask about generic medication alternatives.
- Take advantage of preventive care services covered by insurance.
- Look into prescription assistance programs.
Entertainment and social life
Maintaining a social life doesn’t require significant spending:- Utilize library services for books, movies, and events.
- Look for free community events and festivals.
- Host potluck gatherings instead of dining out.
- Take advantage of free museum days and community programs.
- Use free trials strategically for streaming services.
Money-Saving Tips for Retirees
If you’re retired and looking for ways to save money, take these tips into consideration:Healthcare and insurance optimization
- Retirees can often find additional savings in healthcare:
- Review Medicare plans annually during open enrollment.
- Investigate supplemental insurance options carefully.
- Use preventive care benefits to avoid larger expenses.
- Consider medical tourism for major procedures.
- Join AARP or similar organizations for additional discounts.
Making the most of senior benefits
Many businesses offer senior discounts that can add up:- Ask about senior discounts everywhere you go.
- Use senior public transportation rates.
- Take advantage of early bird specials at restaurants.
- Join senior membership programs at grocery stores.
- Look for senior citizen property tax exemptions.
Lifestyle adjustments
Retirement often allows for more flexible lifestyle choices:- Consider downsizing to a more manageable home.
- Relocate to areas with lower cost of living.
- Take advantage of off-peak travel rates.
- Join senior centers for free or low-cost activities.
- Volunteer for organizations that offer member benefits.
Strategies for families
No one experiences financial strain like parents with children. If you’re struggling to get by while raising a family, maybe some of these suggestions could help:Education and childcare
- Families can find creative ways to reduce educational expenses:
- Research free pre-K programs in your area.
- Share childcare responsibilities with other families.
- Look into dependent care FSA accounts through employers.
- Take advantage of after-school programs.
- Consider homeschooling cooperatives.
Family shopping strategies
Families have unique opportunities for bulk savings:- Join wholesale clubs for frequently used items.
- Organize clothing swaps with other families.
- Buy children’s clothes off-season.
- Use hand-me-downs and consignment shops.
- Take advantage of tax-free shopping days.
Family activities and entertainment
Family fun doesn’t have to break the bank:- Create a rotation of free family activities.
- Use family memberships at museums and zoos.
- Plan staycations instead of expensive trips.
- Take advantage of kids-eat-free promotions.
- Organize neighborhood activity exchanges.
Technology and tools for saving
Need help getting organized about cutting costs and saving up? Here are some resources you can leverage:Digital resources
Technology can help optimize savings:- Use budgeting apps to track spending.
- Sign up for price drop alerts on essential items.
- Join local buy-nothing groups on social media.
- Use cashback credit cards responsibly.
- Download apps that offer rebates on everyday purchases.
Banking optimization
Smart banking choices can prevent unnecessary fees:- Choose free checking accounts.
- Set up automatic savings transfers.
- Maintain minimum balances to avoid fees.
- Use bank reward programs effectively.
- Consider online banks with higher interest rates.
Building emergency savings
Even small amounts can build meaningful savings:- Start with saving just 1% of income.
- Increase savings percentage gradually.
- Save all unexpected income.
- Consider micro-savings apps.
- Look for ways to earn extra income through side gigs.
The bottom line
Remember that saving money while managing debt is a marathon, not a sprint. Start with the strategies that feel most manageable and gradually incorporate more as your situation allows. The key is to find a sustainable approach that works for your specific circumstances while maintaining a decent quality of life.There’s always JG Wentworth…
If you have $10,000 or more in unsecured debt there’s a good chance you’ll qualify for the JG Wentworth Debt Relief Program.* Some of our program perks include:- One monthly program payment
- We negotiate on your behalf
- Average debt resolution in as little as 48-60 months
- We only get paid when we settle your debt
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* Program length varies depending on individual situation. Programs are between 24 and 60 months in length. Clients who are able to stay with the program and get all their debt settled realize approximate savings of 43% before our 25% program fee. This is a Debt resolution program provided by JGW Debt Settlement, LLC (“JGW” of “Us”)). JGW offers this program in the following states: AL, AK, AZ, AR, CA, CO, FL, ID, IN, IA, KY, LA, MD, MA, MI, MS, MO, MT, NE, NM, NV, NY, NC, OK, PA, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, DC, and WI. If a consumer residing in CT, GA, HI, IL, KS, ME, NH, NJ, OH, RI, SC and VT contacts Us we may connect them with a law firm that provides debt resolution services in their state. JGW is licensed/registered to provide debt resolution services in states where licensing/registration is required.
Debt resolution program results will vary by individual situation. As such, debt resolution services are not appropriate for everyone. Not all debts are eligible for enrollment. Not all individuals who enroll complete our program for various reasons, including their ability to save sufficient funds. Savings resulting from successful negotiations may result in tax consequences, please consult with a tax professional regarding these consequences. The use of the debt settlement services and the failure to make payments to creditors: (1) Will likely adversely affect your creditworthiness (credit rating/credit score) and make it harder to obtain credit; (2) May result in your being subject to collections or being sued by creditors or debt collectors; and (3) May increase the amount of money you owe due to the accrual of fees and interest by creditors or debt collectors. Failure to pay your monthly bills in a timely manner will result in increased balances and will harm your credit rating. Not all creditors will agree to reduce principal balance, and they may pursue collection, including lawsuits. JGW’s fees are calculated based on a percentage of the debt enrolled in the program. Read and understand the program agreement prior to enrollment.
This information is provided for educational and informational purposes only. Such information or materials do not constitute and are not intended to provide legal, accounting, or tax advice and should not be relied on in that respect. We suggest that you consult an attorney, accountant, and/or financial advisor to answer any financial or legal questions.