NOTE: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only.
Happy New Year, friends! It’s that honeymoon period – we’re still basking in the afterglow of the holidays… but haven’t yet received our December credit card statement.
Oh yeah, all that holiday spending. Shudder.
Now, if you read my previous post Holiday Shopping? Here’s How NOT to Blow Your Budget! and took my advice, congratulations! You’re in the clear. However, we’re all human and mistakes do happen – even when that mistake is a pair of Louboutin peep toe pumps. (Which happened to a friend, obviously.)
I have good news. It’s the beginning of a new year, which means another chance to wipe the slate clean and start fresh. Today, I’m sharing three of my best tips for staying on budget – and guess what? You *don’t* have to cut up your credit cards to do it!
1. Shop online for groceries. No, really. With so many companies offering grocery pickup service, it’s time to try it out. Here’s why.
First, you’re less likely to impulse shop and stick to your grocery list, especially if you utilize the website’s “search” function vs. the “browse” function. Not being swayed by fad products or add-ons (which are bad for your wallet and your waistline) is a great way to stick to your weekly grocery budget.
Second, when you shop for groceries online, the total amount is tallied in real time vs. at the end of the checkout process, so you’ll always keep on top of how much you’re spending. And when you use a prepaid card, like a prepaid Mastercard, American Express or Visa, you’ll add another level of budget-staying prowess – you can conveniently use prepaid cards online while accessing a set amount of funds.
2. Use prepaid cards to set spending budgets throughout the year. The holidays aren’t the only time Canadians overspend. Think about it: vacation spending, back-to-school shopping, birthday celebrations, etc. – there are many times throughout the year where it’s possible to blow your budget. Purchasing a prepaid card and assigning it to an expense allows you to control the amount of spending.
(To those who say, “I want to collect points with my credit card!” No problem – simply buy a prepaid card with your credit card! YES! All the rewards, zero chances to overspend.)
Why else should you love prepaid cards?
a) Funds are universally accepted. You can make purchases anywhere in the world where MasterCard, American Express and Visa are accepted, including online and over the phone.
b) You are protected. Prepaid cards issued by card networks can protect consumers by the Zero Liability protections of the card brand. Make sure to read the terms and register your card!
c) They make the perfect gift. Which takes me to point #3….
3. Gift the gift of prepaid cards. Not only is it the single most effective way to stay on budget, the 2016 Annual “What Canadians Really Want: Holiday Gift Trends” survey revealed that Mastercard, American Express and Visa prepaid cards were a top gift for the second year in a row. In fact:
– 37% of Canadians indicated that a prepaid card is the TOP gift
– 63% of Canadians want to receive prepaid cards so they can get exactly what they want
– 67% prefer giving gift cards to cash because the recipient is more likely to spend it on something special for themselves
– 68% of Canadians prefer to receive a prepaid Mastercard, American Express or Visa over a retail store gift card
The numbers don’t lie! Make 2017 the year you stay on budget with finesse and be a champion gift giver – by giving your family and friends the gift of a prepaid card!
To learn more about prepaid cards, visit cppo.ca. You can find them at your favourite supermarket, drugstore or big box retailer.
Or – you could WIN one right here! Here’s a little help to stay on buget in 2017– courtesy of my friends at CPPO, I’m giving away a $250 Prepaid Mastercard! To enter, simply fill the form below with your qualifying entries. Good luck!
I Play to use cash, prepaid gift cards etc for purchases. I do not want to use credit cards at all.
using credit cards gives you a credit history which you need in order to get a favourable car loan or mortgage. The key with credit cards is to use them but pay them off fully each month. As long as you have the discipline to do this you will build a good credit history and not go into debt
I’ll stay on budget if my husband stays out of the grocery store. He’s the biggest impulse buyer I know.
I really like the idea of using prepaid cards to stay on budget throughout the year. I’m going to give that one a try for sure!
We dont have credit cards, when we want to buy something online we buy the prepaid cards so this way we’re not owning and well we can stick to budget
Try using cash instead of credit…
I will keep track of my spending and review expenditures at the end of each month!
I’m going to do my best to use cash and prepaid cards,for the next while.And only buy things I need and get back into using coupons.
I will stay on budget by keeping track of all monthly expenses on a spreadsheet and reviewing it with my husband.
Having a plan is the first step, then track it because knowing if you are staying on plan or not is huge. Also set up automatic savings plans, Christmas doesn’t have to be a huge expense if you start putting money away each month now.
gonna be a tight one in 2017 as I will be on mat leave. gonna have to price match and coupon
Only purchase what we need & not wants.
Use cash/debit only – if we don’t have the cash we don’t buy.
Purchase things when on sale
I stay on budget over holiday season by stashing away 50 dollara a month for grpceriea and gifts i love the prepaid credit card idea too that way if i find deals throughour the year i can buy gifts at a discount for christmas and not have to worry about paying it back or intereat rates
I will stay on budget in 2017 by using prepaid cards for groceries, gifts and other necessities.
I will try to use less credit and keep a running list of purchases
Usually we set monthly goals and set something aside for an emergency which usually comes in handy every year!
I use the Flipp app to compare prices and clip the best deals so I can price match at the store. I use coupons and site specific codes to get the best deals possible.
Pursue more free activities for entertainment, like sledding and evening walks. Cut back on our cable tv, and shop for sales at the grocery store.
It’s pretty simple for us really. We don’t spend money that we don’t have and sometimes go without extras. I think many people who are seriously in debt tend to live beyond their means and we have chosen not to do that. That’s not to say that times can’t be tough but restraint is important.
I will use cash instead of credit – only buy what we need and stay away from impulse purchases.
since one of us is self employed and that income fluctuates we keep a strict weekly and monthly budget which we review at least once a week. and we are taking advantage of all sorts of things like running everything through our credit card to receive the points and then immediately paying it back down. then we redeem the points for free groceries!
I am using money saving app, coupons, price matching etc to help stay on budget. 2016 year was a bad year for us, seemed every time we turned around there were emergency requiring money so 2017 we have to catch up.
I am going to try and stay on budget by following a money plan and also a spending plan :) Thanks!
I budget , I’m not afraid to use a coupon or price match ! I start with what i have , work out what i have to pay and whats left !
I will use meal planning to stay on budget. I’m someone who can go into any other retail store and just browse without spending money but every time I go to a grocery store, I come out $100-$200 later, even if I just ran in for milk and bread. Meal planning lets me have a list of exactly what I plan to buy, No I just have to get better at sticking to that list.
I check my spending on a weekly basis
I only pay cash for my purchases. If we don’t have the money, we can’t buy it. All essentials are paid for before we make non essential purchases
I use credit for absolutely everything, even a coffee, As I have a pretty decent cash back card. However I clear it monthly and my husband takes out his chart once a month and shows me our value, spending, etc. I also love to shop smart so that helps us stay on target for bigger purchases
Make a grocery list and stick to it.
I will use prepaid cards to stay on budget in 2017! I got in the habit of using them last year, and it made me very aware and accountable of my spending habits. Thanks for the chance!
I am not buying anything that is not food for 6 months.
I use cash for everything, keeps me in order!
I always keep track of my spending, and only purchase what we need.
stick to the list
I’m retiring this year, so I want to use up everything in the pantry/freezer/cupboard first.
using a cash diet – taking out a set amount of cash for the week and not spending more than that.
I downloaded a new app to keep track of my spending. In addition I’m planning to keep using Checkout 51 to help me save money at the grocery store.
I only purchase what I need, and I am mindful of what is on sale as far as groceries go.
I will stay on budget in 2017 by tracking my spending and being careful to only purchase items we really need versus what we want.
Whenever we get money whether it be paycheck, gift, tax return, we simply don’t spend it all. Always save something is my motto.
It’s going to be really hard this year with all the new taxes the Ontario Gov’t are putting in place. Everything else is going up except for my wages. This is apparently quite common nowadays so I’m not alone, but the idea of using a prepaid card really appeals to me. I plan to try this out and see how it works.
I plan on using cash to stay on budget!
I’ll be sticking to my shopping list and using coupons!
I check weekly flyers, to stretch my dollar, for specials & sales on items I need.
I only use cash or debit cards to pay for purchases.
I make my grocer lists and stick to it and check weekly flyers for sales.
I will stay on budget as I let my Wonderful Wife handle all the finances!
I check weekly flyers and get coupons. I also meal plan and try to make meals with stuff at home to stretch my money further!
Oh I like the idea of ordering groceries on line…only issue I have is I live so darn far from any stores it would need to be picked up and I also shop the sales and do a ass much price matching as I can. Awesome article-thank you!
I leave the credit cards for times of emergency and only if a really good deal comes up that I know I can pay for before the statement date.
I am going to try online shopping. I like the idea of seeing the total as I go and avoiding buying things on impulse.
I will def be using cash to stay on Budget in 2017 :)
I vow to not buy impulsively !
I am not a big shopper other than groceries. So I will price match, use coupons and use cash back apps.
I will be staying on budget by really considering my needs vs. wants this year!
I’m aiming to track my finances this year.
I will stay on budget for 2017 with the help of my hubby! thankfully I don’t work so don’t have much money coming in on my end (trust it’s a good thing lol) so I don’t have to spend on useless things
I’m going to use cash – this way I can see the money being used!
I will stay on budget in 2017 by using cash only i just payed off the credit and i am not ringing that up again
We will be couponing, eating at home more and not buying anything unless necessary.
I will stay on budget by using cash instead of credit and price matching to save money.
We use coupons, we do tend to buy prepaid Visa cards, we try to eat in for the most part, and we stick to our guns when it comes to grocery shopping especially when hubby does the shopping! ????
Visa and Mastercard that is ☺️
I think as times change you will see less and less people keep balances on their credit cards. People are getting smarter with their money.
I do like your suggestion about the prepaid credit cards. It is a terrific way to budget yourself.
I’m using budgeting software this year to keep track of spending. Hopefully it keeps me on track!
I’m staying on budget this year by keeping track of what I buy monthly and taking cash out and only use that.
I will stay on budget by setting limits on what I spend. I will also think, “Is this something I need or just want?”. That will help to curb unnecessary spending.
This is the year that I document everything. My husband and I are great at not spending much money and we have our mortgage paid off, with TFSA’s full, etc. But still we have not put down in a chart just what we are worth financially. So, this year it will be done. We use 2 for 1 coupons, at dinners, etc. to save and this makes us get out to have a date night every week as our kids are in their early 20’s and no longer want to come to dinner with us, so we just go when we want and do what we want. We also pay off our credit cards right away, no crazy interest charges for us.
Use interact or cash .. stay away from using credit
We will be staying on budget as much as possible by not purchasing anything we really do not need.
I only buy what I know I can afford, I look for sales, and I’m not afraid to use coupons!
I have created an account just for groceries and another for extras. If the money is not in there I don’t spend it. I price match, coupon and buy in bulk. All the money I save goes into appropriate account. I DO NOT SPEND WHAT I DO NOT HAVE .. AND NO CREDIT.
we set a budget at the end of each december for the complete year, month by month. it has worked very well.
Going to do my best to set a budget and stay within it. I like the idea of pre-paid cards to help with spending
keeping track of my spending very closely to stay within budget
I really like the idea to buy groceries online. I like the convenience of that but never thought it would save me money. I will try it.
Couponing, price matching, shopping only the sale items, keeping to the list.
I use a free online program called Mint. It links to my bank account and categorizes every transaction. I have used it for several years and love it.
I try to buy as much as I can on sale plus I price match and use coupons. I also watch for deals on gift cards. just before Xmas Old Navy and The Gap gift cards were being offered at Rexall at a 20% reduction. Since my sons are changing shirt sizes I was able to buy a $50 GC for $40 for both places and pick them up some long sleeve shirts that were on sale (plus the GC was already 20% off). SDM had a similar offer for Sportchek cards so I bought some to use a month later to buy running clothes for my husband for father’s day. I try to really limit how much we eat out since that is a killer for my budget. If we do feel like having a break from cooking we often pick up take out in order to avoid delivery charges and tips. I personally do not agree with your tip of buying groceries online -many places charge a fee for the convenience and I am not sure that you can price match. To avoid overspending just bring a list and stick to it -all it takes is some actual willpower. Cell phones are a big expense so switching to cheaper cell phone plans can save a lot of money.
I will stay on budget in 2017 by not making any impulse purchases and only buying what is needed. I will also use coupons and apps to save on necessities. Happy 2017 ????
I stayed on budget pretty good kinda like a wave at times! lol
It’s tricky right now with my husband off waiting for cataract surgery. NO spending right now unless really necessary!
Another option is to purchase gift cards for everyday purchases from a service such as Fundscrip. You can buy the gift cards with a percentage going to a charity or team. Then you have assigned how much to spend for yourself and donated.
I plan to stay on budget by sticking to my list when I go shopping
OMG .. I’ve been thinking about this topic and had purchased a budget blooklet to stay on track of spending.. i hope this works and gives me a glance of what i’ve spent and adjust accordingly … loved to read about how other people manages their budget!
i plan on staying on budget in 2017 by not being impulsive and buy things i wont use much and save more money.
I can stay on budget if my husband can stay away from Home Depot
I don’t use Credit Cards,plan a monthly payables budget and meal budget. Buy on sale dates like Sunday and Tues when things like veggies and fruits are on sale.Stock up on staples that are on sale. Use coupons when buying regular products. Dont buy processed and make and freeze meals.
I always shop with a list, use coupons, cash back shopping apps, etc. It really saves me a lot ! Oh yes – loyalty cards !
I really enjoyed your article on McDonald’s sponsoring of kids’ hockey !
I will stay on budget in 2017 by paying cash and using prepaid reddit cards in place of my regular ones.
I keep a record of all my spending
I have a budget and I stick to it. I pay for everything on credit card and pay it in total at the end of the month. I use an app to compare prices before I shop.
Hi Lena! I plan on using apps to comparison shop, creating shopping lists, price matching and by not buying stuff that isn’t needed! Thanks!
I will stay on budget by taking advantage of all the free family activities – especially in the summer.
Personally I think gift cards are so impersonal when it comes to gifting but I love receiving them! lol
I check flyers for sales and try to match with coupons.
I will continue to shop sales, price match and use coupons. I also hope to be more aware of what I am spending my money on. Sometimes I buy things that catch my eye but I don’t really need.
I will stay on budget in 2017 by continuing to not use credit cards which lead to unnecessary purchases & creating debt. I only use prepaid cards in all my shopping which helps me stay on track. I also utilize cash back apps like Ebates & coupon code sites like RetailmeNot Canada.
We treat our budget plans like a game. The more money we save, the less we spend, the more we win. It sounds silly, but we actually use monopoly money and a box as a reward system. We can physically touch and count what we have saved and write our goals on the outside of the box. It’s kind of fun! We do use our credit card when we can for points, but haven’t paid interest in years and only spend what we need. We are also really strict about eating out and try to make meals ahead, freeze meals, use coupons, coupon apps etc. It all adds up.
I’m going to keep better track of my spending so I can see where my money goes!
I walk 1.5 miles/ 2.4 km to the mall & back, use my own shopping cart, use cash & that’s stops me from buying to much. If it’s to heavy I don’t buy it. ????????
We have to stay on budget or even under, hubby is off work right now and he will be going in for surgery, plus he is the only one that works in the home so it’s been really tough and buying just what we need to get by on for groceries, it’s hard but can be done!
I will use coupons on all my grocery shopping
by tracking our spending and comparing it to the budget to see where we can improve
I’m planning to reign my spending now that the holidays. I will use coupons and and points programs and I never spend more than I make.
By using more cash then credit/debit
First of all i will not go the mall just to browse. Make a list when going to the supermarket. Save for items instead of just buying things when I feel like it.
We revisit our budget every second week on payday.
I stay on budget by not touching the money lol. We are on a set income and there’s not enough to get through a month period anyways, but my husband is really good at balancing and budgeting, was part of his job in the States. I let him control the money and manage it …. I prefer not having that stress.
by setting a budget limit for things (food, entertainment, etc)
I complete a budget via spreadsheet and try to stick to it. Buy as much as possible on sale.
I am keeping track of all bills and costs for groceries ect this year ! Have a budget and i wanna stick with it
I never use a credit card, unless its an emergency…
By only buying what I need and not wasting most of my money on food!
By using coupons and keeping track of sales especially on groceries.
My husband and I were just talking about a budget last night! As newlyweds and new homeowners we have to stretch our money as far as possible. We have decided to only eat out once a month (this will include coffee runs etc). We’re also going to have our weekly date nights at home and hit up the grocery store to make a meal together rather than always going out for date night!
We stay on budget by making a plan and leaving room for emergencies. We also use an organizer to keep it all up to date.
I am always trying to stay on budget,,but really really really want to this year and my motivation is saving for a trip!!
It would be terrific to
win a $250 Prepaid Mastercard.
In response to your question of
How will you stay on budget in 2017?
I will stay on Budget by using Coupons
and only paying for things with Cash.
I don’t use Credit Cards.
Thank you for having this contest.
I am going to try to stay on budget in 2017 by cutting back on my spending….only buy groceries we need, and go on a full stomach…I tend to buy more if I am hungry….and do the same for other shopping as well…
I’m an impulse buyer and buy a lot of things that I don’t really need. I will try to curb my impulses and shop a lot less.
To stay on budget in 2017 we are putting money aside every paycheck for saving and going to see a financial advisor
I use cash or debit for my groceries.
We will be staying on track by keeping track of all purchases
Christmas is the only time I spend most but I am very watchful and I am trying to be good at savings, for 2017 i check what is on sale,using my giftcards, promotions and coupon.
I will try to use the online grocery services
I love to use coupons in conjunction with flyer deals and my cash back rebate apps!!
I’d like to try online grocery shopping and pick up, it does make sense to see what you’re spending
Keep couponing and watch for sales!
We are going to cut down on visits to our fave restaurants. We will take advantage of grocery coupons and the majority of meals will be homemade.
I do like grocery shopping online but I usually only do it when we are very busy. I should maybe look at doing it more.
I’ll make sure I pay off my credit cards bills when due.
I keep track of what I spend and I use coupons and watch out for sales
I have rules for spending and saving, but would have to exercise them more vigorously since our income haven’t grown in quite a few years, but kids and prices are growing.
I will stay on budget in 2017 by using coupons and keeping a record of all my spending.
I only purchase what I need
I will stay on budget in 2017 by cooking more meals at home and eating out less often.
I will stay on budget by staying away from the fast food places and if my husband stays out of Can Tire.
I don’t have much of a choice but to stay on budget. No credit card (I do use prepaids for online shopping) and no over draft! I write lists for the grocery store to make sure I don’t over spend, and bills get paid before anything “fun” gets bought.
In order to stay on budget in 2017, I plan to use this great advice to use prepaid cards. I have heard such great reviews about ordering groceries online that I have to experience it myself also. I will also rely on my weekly meal plans, ingredient lists and coupons.
I do not use credit cards, we purchase what we need not what we want. I also use coupons, shop sales and love thrift stores and yard sales
I will be taking out a personal loan this year; so I will need to watch my dollars with the extra expenses and only purchase what I need, watch sales for better prices and just spend wisely as a whole!
I plan on being more mindful of what I’m buying and buy less of what I want and more of what I need.
I plan on staying on budget in 2017 by never leaving my home again…lol
I plan to write down every $ that I spend for a few weeks and then see where I can cut and save money
I plan to use cash only
I use the Flipp app to compare prices and clip the best deals
We started last year sticking to getting out of debt, and working on it this year as well. Other than Christmas we don’t go overboard with anything, if we can’t afford it, we don’t buy it. Bottom line, purchase what we need, and hopefully by summer, we will be debt free.
I am retired and I am good at staying on budget, I only have one credit card and it has a low limit and usually only used at Christmas. I will try to cut out unnecessary clothing purchases this tear
I will try to check out the flyers to buy things that are on sale and always look for coupon whenever it is available. I only have two credit cards that I use in order to prevent overspending. Also, I will try to control myself to buy things that I need only
Awesome
I hope to keep our family on budget this year by paying with cash, tracking any purchases/charges, and by meal planning! Thank you! :)
I always use cash my credit card is for emergencies or if I do use it online I put that amount right back on my CC, and I always set a monthly budget
I am keeping track of all my weekly expenses in a journal .. giving myself a spending budget and depositing my extra in a savings account !
I really like the idea of using prepaid cards to stay on budget
We only use credit cards for emergencies, it’s so much easier to keep yourself on budget with cash!
making meal plans and sticking to them and watching sales
we downsized our credit accounts so living on csh is our goal this year!!
Love your recommendations of grocery shopping online and would definitely look into the pre paid cards. Also setting a budget is really helpful.
I will stay on budget by eating economical meals and staying away from the malls. We over indulged over the holidays and got everything we all needed.
Budget, and stick to it.
I am cutting back on non-necessity items in 2017.
My plan to stay on budget this year is to stick to my shopping list, shop sales and price match!
I will use cash and coupons, avoid credit cards to stay on budget!
I plan on cutting back on impulse spending!!!
now that little one has arrived i really have to limit my spending but it’s so hard when you find all these cute outfits and toys. I really need to stick to a plan. Either it be pay by cash or debit only and also use flipp for sales. Plus I also put money aside to 2 other bank accounts and don’t touch them until it’s really an emergency
I prepare a shopping list before I go to the supermarket and stick to it unless there is an in-store special that I will definitely use.
I’ll use mainly my debit card and try to stay away from using my credit card for impulse buys.
Make a list and stick to it when I go shopping.
I stay on budget buy tracking my spending on an app (visual budget) when you look back and realize your some how spending $150+ at Tim
Hortons a month it’s s real eye opener !
Hubby and I will be accountable to each other for what we spend, no impulse purchases.
I will stay on budget in 2017 by not buying things that I really do not need.
I stay on budget by using cash instead of my debit card so I can keep track of my money.
I’m going to save money this year by only buying things I actually need and looking for sales while using coupons.
I do not have a budget and have been forced to live a minimalist life for the past 3 years so I am overly cutting back already . Coupon , contest , work from home cook everything you eat and not waste on eating out etc.
I only buy what I need and try to use coupons to match necessary items to stretch my dollar. I go into the grocery store with a list and stick to it.
We just bought a house, so staying on budget in 2017 is super important to us. We will not be eating out this year, and cooking much more at home.
We are always careful and check our account balances every evening and pay our credit card off straight away!
Definitely do up a list prior to going shopping.
By keeping a spreadsheet of all spending!
I will stay on Budget by doing more price match and not forgetting to use coupons. Trying to find free events for entertainment.
I will stay on budget by paying cash for everything, not credit and shopping sales with coupons to save some money.
I’m going to stay on budget by price matching more often and cut out frivolous spending.
I really like the idea of using pre paid cards for areas I have a strict budget in, such as groceries and clothes shopping. Let’s be honest, sometimes I am willing to scrimp on my groceries for extra clothes #imsobad
I stay on budget by stocking up on items when they are sale and using coupons.
I am using only one card instead of multiple when paying for things, so it is easier for me to keep track as all expenses will be in one place.
By using my credit card to make the majority of my purchases. This will let me analyze the data to see spend patterns and identify opportunity to save and lower overall spending.
I’m certainly intending to – we put money away every paycheque for things like vacations and Christmas.
I will create a budget spreadsheet and stay on top of our purchases and savings
I will stay on budget in 2017 by not making any spur of the moment purchases!
I hope so. We just retired so we have to look at budgeting from a different angle, with no employment $$ coming in. This card would help IG I go off track
my wife maintains a monthly budget and keeps the family on track!
I’ll stay on budget by avoiding malls as much as possible.
We will do our very best to keep on our budget by paying by cash or money that we have.
I’d keep track of my expenses monthly & make a list of what I need.
I pay cash for most things and if I use a mastercard I pay it off in full every month, if I can’t I do not charge and wait until I can afford it
I buy things ahead of time, like right now I’m looking for next winters jackets for my kids. This time of year they are all on clearance!
Being simple I’d go for the Pronto Plan for my family. Thankyou…
I try to stay on budget, but it’s hard when someone else in the family is a spender.
We finally got debt free last year and will stay that way with our 6-month ahead budget and ensuring all cards are paid in full monthly for anything we put on them to earn points
using my grocery flyers and coupons!
Make a grocery budget for each week
We stay on budget by making our annual budget in advance and checking in with it every month. We also look for value in everything we buy and really ask ourselves whether we need any of the extra items we buy.
I plan to stay on budget by writting everything down.
I plan to stay on budget by stocking up items we need when they’re on sale. We have dropped our credit limit on our credit cards and pay them off in full every month.
I have an app that I follow along and I break down our spending with that. I also only buy when things are on sale, or I get money back, or PC points! I do pretty well, but there is always room for improvement!
I am always watching the flyers for deals for groceries and things I need to buy
It’s going to be very tough to stay on budget this year as we have lots of changes headed our way that will impact our finances in big ways. I’m going to try cutting down our grocery bill as well as cutting out impulse buys.
I’m going to document all cents, in and out.
I still use my credit card (to collect airmiles)but I pay it off right away – credit card as a tool not a budget “extender”.
I write down everything we buy – this way, we know how much we spent at the end of each month and know to watch our pennies the next month!
I write down what I spend – it helps me realize where my dollars go
I will make a list and stick to it
I’ll make sure I pay off my credit
I am going to try the online grocery shopping. And iirc, some places will also price match online, so I will do that too!
I will use apps like Flipp to save money at the grocery store.
I make sure we can pay off my credit cards monthly, so as to not get into a hole. We also try to “shop our pantry” for the month of January to use up stuff we have before it goes stale.
I will try to buy gifts throughout the year and catch the items ‘discounted’ if I can.
by paying with cash and not using my cards
I am going to write everything done on a paper – no fudging there lol
Use the envelope system. Only use the cash in the envelopes.
I will stay on budget by paying closer attention to where my money is being spent.
I’ll stay on budget by using only cash and prepaid cards. Everyone on my Christmas list got one this year! Easy for me and a great choose-it-yourself gift!
I will stay on budget in 2017 by buying conscientiously. I love your idea of using and also gifting prepaid credit cards! Specific store gift cards are so restrictive.
I will keep track of expenses to stay on budget
Our family won’t be taking a vacation this year to help us stay on budget.
I am saving $50 a week in a jar so that when Xmas rolls around I won’t have any bills.
Keep all receipts and tally them up. Also will purchase what I need not what I want to have.
I will stay on track by planning & tracking purchases. I did pretty well for 2016 so I home 2017 goes well too!!
I will use willpower and self-control!
I track my expenses, save 10% of my income, shop the sales and use coupons. I never put on credit anything I can’t afford to pay back. If I need to make a big purchase, I save for it first.
I stay on budget simply by not buying anything that I don’t actually need. If I needs something and can’t afford it, I save for it first. Credit cards can be evil !!
I coupon a lot and we look for deals.
I’ll try to focus on the essential
I resolve to only buy things i need and look for items on sale.
I will stay on budget in 2017 by reducing my household’s impulse spending and improving our food budget so we don’t overspend.
We’ll stay on budget with a budgeting app, we love YNAB!
I have a budget on Excel which I use.
I have created a budget , watching my spending and cutting down on extra spending -example eating out, gambling–this extra money will go to saving for a trip for my family
I will make sure I save a certain amount of money each month.
I will track my expenses to see where I can cut costs.
I will use more coupons, look for the best deals in the flyers and try to do more price matching!
I know the difference between wants and needs
I will keep using coupons and keep track of my spending
I will refrain from using my debit and credit cards when possible and I will save my receipts to help keep track of my spending habits.
I will get rid of unnecessary credit cards.
We’re trying to pay down our credit cards this year so our rule is if we don’t have cash for something we probably don’t need it.
We are getting ready for retirement this summer so we have been budgeting to live on less and save what we can. We use coupons, rarely eat out and I cook our meals from fresh ingredients rather than buy convenience foods.
I’m going to create a budget and do a better job of sticking to it. I find that if I cook more, I can do better at staying on track.
We’re tracking all this month and then using that to create a budget
2017 is one of my goals for budgeting. I am a single pensioner who likes to live frugal. I do not go to big box stores,I shop online to avoid impulse shopping. Besides, I find better deals online. I only purchase what I need. This win would decrease some of my debt.
I have already reduced my cable bill and am doing a lot more bulk shopping. Thanks for the chance!
Put away 100 dollar per month saving towards Xmas holiday spending
We are cancelling our cable bill this year and starting to negotiate are other bills like phone and internet to get our monthly costs down. I plan on being more conscientious at the grocery store this year too — stocking up on on sale items, using coupons etc.
Staying within budget is always difficult but I have found making lists and not carrying over a balance in my charge card reduces some of the damage.
I find writing down what I spend after each shopping trip makes me remember. It’s low tech, but it works for me.
And I love prepaid cards for the “extra” things.
Pay off your credit cards on time. I used to pay cash for everything, but credit cards have rewards that are pretty valuable.
Cook more often at home and order in less! This will definitely help to keep my expenses down. I have also been tracking my spending through an app … this will tell me how much and where I am spending the most.
I am trying to pay cash or at least pay off the cards each month.
Always pay off your credit card
keeping a spreadsheet of all incoming/outgoing so it’s obvious where things can be changed. thanks
Great ideas!
Try to just eat the food we have in our house i stead of going out & buying more
I will be staying on budget this year by sticking to my lists and necessities when shopping.We also keep adding a few extra dollars to a fund that is set aside for emergencies,so that if something breaks down we have some cash on hand to help with that.We also go out less to dinner and stay home more to watch movies.????☀️ :)
By making grocery lists and by not shopping as entertainment. The decluttering I have been doing is helping me realize I have to much stuff and don’t need to buy more.
We use a budget binder
im saving 15 every paycheck only using prepaid gift cards for purchases
I am quite frugal, enjoy thrifting and don’t spend money that I don’t have while putting a wee bit aside for saving.
I will stay on budget by resisting impulse purchases.
I try to stay on budget by using a flyers app and coupons!! Would love to win!!
Such great ideas with prepaid cards. I have only used one before, but after reading this, I am going to use them more frequently for sure. Thank you so much!
Try and use cash whenever possible
I keep track of my monthly expenses
I’ll be eating out less, preplanning meals, and using cash and prepaid cards for purchases!
Im using prepaid card and sticking to a budget
Limit spending and use debit card or cash — so there are no nasty surprises when the mail comes overflowing with credit-card bills.
I am trying my best to be on a budget. I pinch my pennies and coupon.
Hi Lena, I have a tight budget; so I clip coupons and keep eye open for specials; I buy only what I need every two weeks. I only allow one entertainment outing during this time frame; I keep on top of my cc and loans and are my priority to get down. And now using prepaid cards when I make a purchase on line from walmart..this way I dont over spend. Thanks for this wonderful opportunity. sg.
I’ll stay on budget (hopefully!) by buying in bulk (we have teen boys, so it’s warranted lol) and by cooking bulk (that way, we have less dinners out). It’s tough, but it’s necessary for our family to stay on budget!
By using prepaid gift cards, of course!!
I will coupon more often!
I try to stay on budget by shopping sales and coupons
I am using money saving app, coupons, price matching etc to help stay on budget. Buying used clothing for the kids really helps keep costs down too. Making lunches instead of eating out helps to control spending too.
I find that going to the grocery store on a full stomach also helps to control impulse buys. I make purchases based on what we need, not what I’m hungry for that moment!
Stay on budget by buying what’s on sale, what is needed and not what you are craving for at that moment your in the grocery aisle. It’s a challenge that some people still need to master.
I just returned to work part-time after being off on sick leave for an extended period. So, I have definitely become better at avoiding the impulse purchases which were always a big issue with me. I want to be a better money manager goin forward!
will stay on budget by avoiding impulse purchases
I will try to spend on only what I really need, and revise my past expenses.
Im staying on budget by giving the household my regular wage and I get to keep my overtime for my expenses to budget with that.
i’ll stay on budget by using coupons, price matching and not spending money on frivolous things.
I will keep a spread sheet of my expenses and update it on a regular basis.
Small Steps but eventually lead to cash savings. Each pay cheque $50.00 deposited in the bank without fail. And two keys things in my routine – eliminate buying coffee and buying a newspaper. Bring coffee from home and e-read the days events online.
I’m already doing my grocery shopping online because of the convenience. I never thought of it as a way to stay on budget, but now that you mention it, it probably does! So I’ll keep doing it in 2017!
i use a budget program on my pc to track my expenses and track my savings
Make a list, stick to it, plan meals around flyer sales, no impluse buying!
Made a mistake in my tweet entry. Here is the correct link: https://twitter.com/WillFerret/status/827378276607733761
We budget by eating out less and making more meals at home.
Make meal plan.. find sale stock up..
Dining in often!
I plan on doing alot of couponing and leaving my credit card at home. Also we been eating at home a lot more then eating out.
I only pay with cash- I stick to a budget.
We’ve had a discussion about wants and needs. This year, we’ll be asking ourselves which it is and trying to stick to needs.
Purchasing groceries on sale and using coupons & using rebate sites.
I will win my way to staying on budget! Fingers crossed! <3
I’ll stay on budget by making lists of what I need and what I want…this will help me in prioritizing my spending!
Tracking everything we spend money on and cutting out stuff we don’t need
We will meal plan and comparative shop
Meal planning helps me stay on budget.
I will put more aside for savings and resist to buy stuff I don’t need! I will use coupons and my Flipp app to save money too!
NO Credit cards & being a single mom to 4 kids….Nevermind saving, I am lucky to make ends meet!
I will try to stick to a list and use cash as often as possible.
I try to buy oooonly what i need. I’m really cheap.
I plan to make 2017 the year I make s budget and stick to it.
2017 so far so good! I’ve been using coupons and created a budget to help me save.
I price match for anything I can that Im purchasing and I don’t own credit cards at all….anything I can’t afford, I dont buy
I will stay on budget by thinking carefully and making less purchases of unnecessary things.
Price match groceries!