January
Use cold cash in your spending. Put away your credit cards – hide them and forget where you put them. At least for a few months.
Benefit: Those of you who have to peel out the $10 bills will spend less.

February
Use coupons every time you go to the grocery store.
Benefit: Coupons add up to more than a few dollars off.  Last year, our family ate free for 3 full months of the year just by using coupons! And don’t forget my favorite lesson on compounding value.

March
Prepare early for taxes by reading a good book on taxes.
Benefit: Chances are high that you will save some money. It is estimated that the average family overpays by as much as 10% every year.

April
Choose one bad habit that costs you money and break it. Whether its that coke a day out of the vending machine or that gourmet coffee, try really hard to do without this month.
Benefit: You will be surprised how much you will have in your pocket at the end of the month.  If you can continue this new habit throughout the year, invest your savings in a favorite stock.

May
Only grocery shop from a written grocery list. Determine what you are going to make a week ahead of time, make up your list and do not stray from it. Remember, do not shop when you are hungry.
Benefit: You will increase your chances of reducing your grocery bill.

June
Vow to get in better physical shape by walking or jogging. How does this help your finances? See the benefit.
Benefit: The NIH has plenty of information to demonstrate that “couch potatoes” spend more in medical bills every year. With health expenses increasing 10% or more every year, we need all the opportunities we can get.

July
Conduct a mid-year check on what is coming out of your paycheck tax wise and adjust your W-4 if need be.
Benefit: Getting a refund from Uncle Sam is not a good thing. Paying less taxes throughout the year and investing that money is the best approach.

August
nvest in a ceiling fan and raise the temperature on your thermostat.
Benefit: Save money on your utilities bill.

September
Invest in some landscaping by doing it yourself.
Benefits – Planting some bushes and putting 10 bags of mulch down is a good physical workout and adds to the value of your home.

October
Make your holiday list and begin shopping.  Try to finish by the end the month. Negotiate free shipping early.
Benefit: A lot of less stress during December, both on you and your credit cards.

November
Look over your tax bill now and make any last adjustments in order to save more – like giving to charities.
Benefit: Pay less to Uncle Sam and give back to your community.

December
Invest in a small electric heater and insulation (windows, attics, etc.)
Benefit: Save on your heat bill.  With energy costs rising, anything you can do to lower your bill will be a smart move.

December
Buy your gift wrap paper and holiday cards for next year following the holidays.  There are some incredible deals to be had!
Benefit: Save, save, save