10 Money Saving Tips| Learn them with us

It can seem difficult to save money—you have bills to pay, and like many Americans you may be living paycheck to paycheck. Here are ten tips on how to save money that you can take to the bank.

1. Track your spending.

One of the greatest contributors to overspending is a credit card. It's easy to swipe the card and lose track of how the expenses are adding up. By reviewing your spending regularly, you can track exactly where your money goes, and where you might need to trim back. You might find yourself surprised at how much you spend on things like coffee and entertainment each month!

2. Establish a budget.

Setting up a budget is one of the best ways to manage your spending habits. And it doesn't have to be difficult or overwhelming. Use apps to set up monthly spending limits by category and track your spending. That way, you can see when you are spending more or less than you would like.

3. Set up savings goals.

Setting specific goals – small or large – can make saving money easier. Knowing you're saving for something meaningful, like a family vacation or holiday gifts, can make it easier to cut back in other areas.

4. Use an automated tool.

Another great way to save money is to use an automated savings tool. You can work with your bank to set up a pre-authorized savings transfer to come out of your paycheck, so that you don't get a chance to spend the money first. It's amazing how quickly you'll adjust to the change.

5. Bring your lunch to work.

Packing your own lunch instead of buying it every day is another great way to save money. It's no secret that eating out at lunch cost more than food you prepare at home. Doing so doesn't have to be time-consuming, either; cooking websites and cookbooks have thousands of meals that can be prepared in under an hour. Make enough to bring lunch to work all week, and you've just saved a lot of money.

6. Buy used instead of new.

Another great way to save money, buying used items can add dollars back into your bank account each year. Do you really need a new car, or can you get by with one that's a few years old? It's an oft-cited rule of thumb that cars lose their value when you drive them off the lot. How about furniture? Scout thrift stores, yard sales, and consignment stores before you pay more to buy new. Do your research before purchasing and you can find ways to save money by making the dollars that you do spend go further.