Evan Vitale

Evan Vitale – Prep For Winter; Save Money

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By Evan Vitale

The transition from summer to fall is the perfect time to make sure your home is ready for the coming change in weather. Ensuring your home can handle the cold season efficiently will reduce your utility bills so you can save money for the holidays.

Inspect/adjust your heating systems

Your heating system should be serviced every year to keep it working efficiently. Consider replacing your thermostat with a programmable one for even more savings. As the weather starts to cool, set your thermostat no higher than 68 degrees when you are home and the water heater no higher than 120 degrees. Furnace filters should be replaced monthly once you start using it on a regular basis.

Be window wise

As much as 25 percent of your home’s heat can escape through your windows. The first thing to do after summer is remove and store any window air conditioners. If they can’t be removed, cover them both inside and outside to keep cold air out. Use weather stripping, caulking products, heat-shrink plastic sheeting, reflective window films, storm window kits and insulated drapes to make sure your windows and doors are as draft-proof and energy efficient as possible.

Bundle up your home

Besides sealing and covering up your windows, there are other things you can do to keep your home insulated from the outdoors. These include installing draft blockers for light switches and electrical outlets; using heat reflectors that fit behind radiators; and increasing the insulation in your attic, basement, and walls. You can also prevent warm air from escaping outside by closing off unused vents and closing the fireplace damper when not in use.

Lighten your energy load

As the days get shorter, your lights will probably be turned on for more hours of the day. To use less energy to light your house, replace incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent (CFL) bulbs, which last longer and use 75 percent less energy. Other small things you can do to save money on lighting include cleaning lighting fixtures and repainting walls. These efforts allow you to have a brighter home with fewer lights turned on.

Don’t forget to schedule your annual furnace check-up before you need to start using it. Don’t wait until the snow starts flying or when the temperatures start falling before you start to bundle up your home for the winter months.

Evan Vitale – Back To School Savings!

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By Evan Vitale

As summer seems to quickly come to a close, attention has started to shift to back-to-school themes as children get back in the routine of books, lunches and homework. If your child hasn’t started the new school year yet, you probably know the first day of school is approaching fast.

For many families, back-to-school expenses can be costly. This can include new clothes, shoes, school supplies, fees and, in some cases, new calculators or computers. Being thrifty in purchasing back-to-school items doesn’t mean you have to be cheap or skip on some essentials.

Here’s how you can help fit your child with what they need AND save on money at the same time:

– Always look for and take advantage of “Back To School” sales. Almost every major store (and even some local stores) offer back-to-school sales. Here’s where you’ll find all your discounts on school supplies as well as an opportunity to stock up on those supplies your child may use and need all year (i.e., pens, pencils, paper, glue, etc.).

– Think eBay. Here you’ll find name brand clothes and backpacks at great prices. Most sellers are quick to answer questions (before you purchase) and free shipping. Shop early, so your orders will arrive before school begins. If there’s a problem with your order, most sellers offer 30-day return policies.

– Shop, if you can, without your child. By doing so, it’s easier to select items based on price and not on what the child wants. Typically, the items the child wants are usually more expense than what the child needs and your back-to-school list and budget is quickly skewed.

– Avoid fancy items and those items with cartoon characters. Yes, a Spiderman backpack is going to cost more than a simple red and black backpack.

Think smart. Stick to your list – and to your budget – and you’ll be able to arm your child with that they need in order to start school on the right foot!

Evan Vitale – Keeping Your Car Cool

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By Evan Vitale

Traditionally August is the hottest month of the year. Soaring temperatures and high humidity can take a toll on the human body.

However, August is also tough on automobiles, so here are a few tips on how to keep your auto running well during this hot month and avoid a trip to the mechanic:

  • When your car is cool, check your radiator fluids. If your radiator coolant has a milky or rusty color to it, then it’s time to have it flushed and changed. Remember: never remove the radiator cap when the engine is hot. If you don’t want to do this yourself, have your mechanic check it for you during regular oil changes. You should always have your system flushed every 24,000 miles.
  • Visually check your hoses for any leaks or cracks.
  • Get into a regular habit of checking your oil level. Learn where your car’s dipstick is located and how to check your oil level. Depending on how much your drive, oil should be changed ever 3,000 miles or 3 months (whichever comes first).
  • Keep an eye on your battery for corrosion around the battery posts. This will cause a poor connection making it difficult for your car to star and pull proper power during the summer months.
  • Obviously, air conditioning is extremely important during the hottest month of the year. An easy test is to stick a thermometer through your car’s air vent to see how cool the air is that’s pumping into your car. If it’s not cool, you may want to consider changing your car’s cabin filter, which should be done every 20,000 miles. If you can’t get your AC to blow out cool air, then you should see an auto mechanic.
  • Always keep an eye on your automobile’s temperature gauge (located on the dashboard) to make sure your car is not getting ready to overheat. Typically, driving at high speeds, idling in traffic or at a stop sign or running the AC will cause your car to heat up faster. If your temperature gauge is starting to climb to HOT (and possibly overheat), a quick solution is to turn off the air conditioner and turn the heater on MAX (yes, the heater!). This will help vent some of the engine heat and keep your car from overheating.
  • The biggest concern during the summer months is an overheated car. If your car becomes overheated (and the little light on the dashboard warns you of such a problem), you should never continue to run your car as this can lead to expensive damage.
  • Always keep an eye on your tires during the summer months and check your tire pressure frequently. Check your automobile manual to make sure you’re inflating your tires at the correct specifications.

These tips will help you – and your car – stay cool during the hottest month of the summer. Drive safe!

Evan Vitale – Budget Coupon Power!

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By Evan Vitale

So, you’ve cut unnecessary expenses; use coupons from time-to-time, but you’re always on the lookout for ways to help stretch your budget from week-to-week and month-to-month.

Face it: the No. 1 item that you can’t go without is food. You need to make healthy (and smart) choices for meals for you and your family. If you haven’t done so already, taking a closer look at coupon usage at the grocery store is definitely a way to stretch your budget.

Here are five easy ways you can save more at the grocery store without having to skimp on food quality:

Look for and use coupons that offer “Buy 1, Get 1 Free” offers. This is the best way to save, but you need to always be on the lookout for these kinds of deals. Check your coupons in the Sunday paper or online. In some cases, these deals might be available in-store only, so keep your eyes opened when you scan the grocery store shelves.

Watch your expiration dates on coupons. If you want to be a true coupon-clipper, coupons only work when you use them before they expire.

Don’t be afraid to purchase off-brand every once in a while. You might find the grocery store brand tastes just as good and might be even cheaper than using a coupon for the national brand item. Canned green beans are canned green beans. Right?

Use store brand coupons and shopping discount cards. Look for those deals that let you know 10 cans of corn for $10 but only when you use your shopping discount card. When it comes to groceries, always become a proud discount card holder. Discounts here and there add up when you hit the cash register and, in some cases, many store chains offer points for more discounts or gasoline discounts when you use your shopper card.

Share or trade your coupons with family and friends, especially coupons you don’t need or use. Some neighborhoods will form a coupon club. Why not trade baby food and formula coupons with someone who needs them in exchange for coupons that you and your family can use?

Once you get started clipping and using coupons, you’ll quickly be surprised on how much money you and your family can save and still enjoy the same times of foods and products that you’ve been purchasing all along.

Evan Vitale – Big Savings At Dollar Stores

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By Evan Vitale

You’re probably used to seeing them in just about every town and, sometimes, they are located in nearly every strip shopping center these days.

No, we’re not talking a Starbucks Coffee shop, either.

Instead, “dollar” stores are becoming a very popular retail destination for many people (young and old) when trying to stretch your dollar, stay within your monthly budget, and find good days on every days products.

Dollar stores have come a long way. They are no longer the dirty, low-rent stores selling absolute and out-dated products. Have you visited one lately?

Dollar stores are easy to operate and, in some cases, the inventory is refreshed with new products added almost daily. Here are a list of things you can expect to find at a dollar store:

  • Cleaning supplies
  • Paper goods, such as napkins, paper towels
  • Personal health care items, such as shampoo, etc.
  • Toys, coloring books, etc.
  • Party supplies
  • Pet care, automotive products
  • Office supplies and back-to-school supplies
  • Seasonal items, especially for Christmas, Halloween, etc.
  • And, yes, in some cases, food items including soup, tuna, bread, drinks, candy, etc.

When you visit a dollar store for the first time, take your time and browse every aisle. You’ll probably be surprised at what you find and you’ll quickly spot items that you’ve purchases elsewhere (and paid more money).

Get into a habit of saving money by making the dollar store a regular weekly stop on your shopping trips. Some will visit the dollar store first before going to their regular grocery store.

If you’ve haven’t been a regular shopper at a dollar store, it’s definitely something you should consider when living on a tight budget and saving some money!

Evan Vitale – Getting Out Of Debt (Part V)

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By Evan Vitale

In this blog post, we’ll wrap up our series on debt and, more importantly, how to get out of debt. While it’s true we always carry around some form of debt, it’s certain not enjoyable to have a lot of credit card or tax burden debt hanging around your neck.

It’s true that we are living in a time where debt seems like it’s encouraged. We’re bombarded with credit card offers in the mail and by the cashier at the department store. We’re told how easy it is to buy tickets and rent a beachside condo for a vacation in Jamaica and how we can earn points for spending, spending, spending so we can upgrade flights at any time, etc.

In addition, loan brokers tell us that we can borrow up to 125% against our home equity and, if we need quick cash, you can get a loan on your car title.

At times, it definitely sounds like a mound of debt is the way to go, but it’s not pleasant when it’s time to pay the piper.

When money is tight, many people take the easy route and pay for things with a credit card. Try to avoid that temptation, especially if it’s not for essentials such as food, medical, gasoline, etc.

Instead of going into more debt, see if there are opportunities for more work or overtime at your place of employment, seek out a part-time evening or weekend job or tighten your belt and spend less money.

Debt isn’t always a bad thing. You’ll need to carry some level of debt when buying a house or a car or going to college. Someone once said to foster the debts that help the cause and banish the ones that don’t.

Always be looking for ways to control your spending and debt. Cut back on unnecessary purchases and expenses. Save. Save. Save.

Evan Vitale – Getting Out of Debt (Part IV)

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By Evan Vitale

As we know, credit cards can get you into a lot of debt very quickly. Credit cards are easy to obtain but if you don’t control and manage your spending, you can get into a lot of trouble very quickly.

So, what happens when you get in over your head and you can’t keep up with paying off credit card debt? After all, paying the minimum payment each month is not nearly enough to provide relief.

Here’s when most people consider hiring a debt consolidation agency to help and guide them through the debt consolidation process. Here’s how it works:

A debt consolidation agency will help you develop a plan that will help you pay off your debt. In addition, some agencies will continue to provide additional services after the debt is resolved in order to restore and rebuild your credit score. Debt consolidation agencies pool your entire debt together so that you’ll make one payment per month until your debt is paid off. In some cases, they will work with the credit card companies and may be able to get some of your debt excused.

A word of warning: debt consolidation agencies charge fees so make sure the amount you pay them won’t be more than the interest you’re paying to credit card companies.

Do a little bit of research before you hire a debt consolidation company. Read their websites; check out their reviews and call them to schedule an appointment. It’s always nice to have someone on your side you can help guide you through your debt process and make like a little bit easier on you.

Evan Vitale – Getting Out of Debt (Part III)

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By Evan Vitale

Our series on getting out of debt continues today by taking a look at credit card debt.

As we know, it’s very easy to use plastic; buy things we don’t really need and run up a credit card bill. While it feels good to “shop until you drop,” it certainly doesn’t feel good when the statement comes in each month.

Paying the minimum amount is only a temporary fix. Over time, the interest on your debt will bury you and, perhaps, you won’t be able to use your card again. Therefore, here are some steps on how to get your credit card spending under control:

  • The biggest step in getting your credit card debt under control is to stop using your credit card. Stop. Stop. Stop. A good rule to follow while you pay down your debt is to only use cash (or a debit card). In order words, if you can’t pay cash, then don’t buy it.
  • If your debt is serious – and a spending problem exists – cut your credit card(s) in half. This will definitely keep you from using them.
  • Create a spreadsheet and record your credit card accounts; how much you owe and how much you pay on each one each month.
  • Compare your numbers with your other living expenses: mortgage or rent; food; utilities, etc. You’ll be able to make quicker progress on reducing your credit card debt if you create a strict budget. That way, you’ll have a better handle on income and expenses and how much money is available to pay down your credit card debt quicker.
  • If your numbers don’t match up and you can’t pay more than the monthly minimum payment on each credit card, then you’ll eventually be in the red each month. The interest on those cards will continue to mount.

Next week, we’ll take a look at some options and theories on reducing and paying off credit card debt.

Evan Vitale – Getting Out Of Debt (Part II)

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By Evan Vitale

Let’s continue our series on how to get out of debt by focusing on a major stress point for many people and that is tax debt.

Depending on your situation, you might be past due on paying your federal taxes to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS); state taxes or county and local taxes. In all cases, ignoring tax reminders and past due notices, won’t make the matter go away. The longer you wait to solve the problem, the worse it will be, especially with mounting interest and penalties.

The best thing to do is to pay off – as soon as possible – any past due taxes you owe. Of course, that is easier said than done, especially if you are in a financial crunch. If that’s the case, you should contact the IRS (and any other agency you owe); explain your financial situation and offer to make payments. In most cases, all agencies will be willing to accept a payment plan. However, you should be aware that part of the payment terms is that you must remain current on payments and file and pay all future tax liabilities on time. If you are self-employed, you should be making quarterly payments on time.

In the case of federal taxes, the IRS has information on payment plans and installment agreements. You can read about them here:

https://www.irs.gov/individuals/payment-plans-installment-agreements

According to the IRS, “if you’re financially unable to pay your tax debt immediately, you can make monthly payments through an installment agreement. As long as you pay your tax debt in full, you can reduce or eliminate your payment of penalties or interest, and avoid the fee associated with setting up the agreement.”

Remember, always file your tax returns on time – even if you can’t pay the balance due in full. All tax returns must be filed in order to apply for any payment agreement.

In our next blog, we’ll review how to pay off credit card debt.

Evan Vitale – Saving On AC Costs

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By Evan Vitale

Summer is here. Can you feel the heat? And the humidity?

For many, summer can be miserable and at times it seems like the only escape is to stay indoors and crank up the air conditioner. Yes, AC feels good, that is until you get your electrical bill and realize the cost associated with trying to stay cool and comfortable – and affordable – at the same time.

So, here a few things you can do during the summer months that will help off-set your air conditioning expenses, while saving money in other areas:

* Fire up the grill (charcoal or propane) when preparing meals instead of using the stove or oven. This way, your air conditioning unit won’t have to work harder in order to keep the house cool.

* Did you know that your clothes dryer is the second largest energy-consuming appliance in your home? Therefore, in order to save on energy and fees, start hanging your clothes outside in the fresh air. Let Mother Nature do the drying for free.

* If possible, check your appliances (dryer, washer, water heater, etc.) for electrical efficiency. Try to take advance of summer sales by purchasing a more efficient appliance. Most major retailers will offer credit for major purchases and you’ll be saving more money at home at the same time.

* Swap out your incandescent bulbs for high-efficient CFLs or LEDs. Some electrical companies offer CFLs or LEDs for free to their customers.

* Summer is also a great time to check your home’s insulation and cracks for leaks. Yes, even insulation and sealing up leaks in your home can save money in the summer time because it helps keep cool air from escaping. Note: Summer is also a good time to buy insulation as many retailers will have sales!

* Make sure you schedule regular air conditioning maintenance and cleaning and always check and change (or clean) your furnace filter. If you have a window AC unit, check and clean your filter on a regular basis.

These tips will not only help you save money, but you’ll stay more comfortable and cooler when the summer heat pours it on!