Keeping within budget can be tricky and is an art. Here are some ideas:

Food Cost – One of the highest monthly expenses. Minimize waste with a plan, reduce the number of times you purchase meals out with a menu plan and leftovers for lunch.
• Plan a weekly menu
• Include meals for dinner that will make leftovers for lunch
• Make a list and go to the groceries once
• Buy in bulk for high use items
• Buy on sale

Banking Charges – Interest, monthly fees, transactional fees and NSF fees can add up quickly.
• Call your bank to find out what monthly flat fee plan is best for you
• Avoid using other banks’ ATM machines
• If you have a habit of ‘going over’, apply for overdraft protection (be mindful of how often you use it, typically the interest charge is very high)
• Be mindful of how much money is in your account before you write a cheque

Other Monthly Bills – Utilities, cable, Internet and telephone
• Turn the lights out, turn the heat down at night and while you’re at work
• Contact your cable/Internet/telephone company and inquire about the monthly cost of these services if they’re bundled
• Would you benefit from a long distance plan?

Large, Annual Expenses – Car and home insurance, professional and membership fees
• Set up an automatic monthly transfer to your savings account so the funds are there to pay the bill when it’s due. Many organizations offer monthly payment plans…but at a price!

These are just a few…What tips and tricks do you use to stay within budget?