Budgeting
It's very important to budget and note down how and why you spend your money. Here are some great apps to help you do that:- Mint- For saving more and spending less.
- PocketGuard- For a simplified budgeting snapshot.
- Clarity Money- For all-inclusive budgeting.
Debt
A presidential decree last month saw a reduction on loan and mortgage interest rates. This is the best time to reduce your debt. Just get some of that crippling debt out of the way if you have a little change to spare.Shopping
Lots of people feel the need to stock up right now. But few of us have the cash to clear out the supermarket. Here's how to stretch those coins when it comes to shopping.- Center your shopping list on affordable, long-life food that won't spoil in case of power outages and can last for months. Purchase rice, pasta, and dry beans. Stock up on ultra heated or powdered milk. Look for fresh foods that freeze well like onions and carrots. Time to fight the urge to indulge in luxury foods.
- Medication: Consider picking up just a few things you'd need during a pandemic: Paracetomal works well with fever. Be sure to stock up on that. Get some stomach flu pills too.
- Shop in your house: You might be surprised at how much you already have in your house to keep you comfortable in quarantine. Raid your pantry, check all cupboards. Utilize everything! Reduce waste.
Spending and Expenses
If you haven't been keeping tabs on your budget, now's a good time to look for any waste and opportunities to save money.- Holed up at home? Do you have both internet and cable TV? Consider cutting off pay-to-view TV and opt for better streaming services so you have plenty of entertainment options without straining your budget.
- Look for monthly bills you could reduce—subscriptions and other non-essential services.
- Stop ordering in unless it's absolutely necessary.
