Welcome to Senior Tips

Always ask!

I seldom buy anything that I won´t ask if the retailer gives discounts; even restaurants often allow ´senior´ portions...cheaper. I learned this from my husband years ago. I was ready to pay full price for a suit at a large men´s store, when my husband asked for any discount; he saved us $30.00! I´ve gotten discounts from K-Mart, Target, Wal-Mart, HomeDepot, a woman´s dress shop, etc! If you don´t ask, you´ll not receive...that´s my motto! So don´t be bashful, ASK!

Coupons - in the mail

A good way to save money (not just on groceries) is to take advantage of coupons. Don´t throw away that bulky envelope with coupons you receive in the mail...there are usually some very good coupons enclosed, from ´oil change´ to ´restaurants, two-for-one´ to ´tire discounts´ for your car. Worth your time to check them.

Utilizing the humidifier

By using a humidifier in our homes we will actually make our homes feel warmer...AND use less heat and save more money!

Lower thermostat at night

We CAN lower our thermostat at night and still stay cozy during cold weather....two words: electric blankets!

Better CD interest rates

Consider the fact that banks pay more interest on your CDs (Certificate of Deposits) for longer time-limits. If you will not need your money readily available, you might want to extend a 6-month CD to 1-year (or 1-year to 2-year), earning a better rate of interest. Always be alert to the renewal date of a CD and interest being earned.

Fresh vegetables last longer if...

To keep vegetables fresher and longer-lasting, line your refrigerator bins with newspaper, which will absorb excess moisture and prolong freshness and life.

Save on auto/home insurance

Buying home and auto insurance from the same company can earn us savings. I´ve found having a good, trustworthy agent, then discussing my needs/wants works best for me, and saves me, too!

Prolong life of fishing worms

Pack your worms in moistened sphagnum moss for longer life and better activity. You can also line your creel with the moss to keep your catch fresher.

Sharpening scissors

You can sharpen a dulled pair of scissors by cutting through several thicknesses of aluminum foil.

Automatic withdrawals

If you´re like me, I hate wasting time paying bills :o), but I DO like being ´on-time´. Most utility and telephone companies offer the ´automatic-withdrawal´ payment plan: each month your bill is paid directly thru your checking account and notification is mailed to you by util/tele company. Easy, timely, and safe.

Buy favorite ice cream in bulk

Save by buying your favorite ice cream in bulk, then pack/store in smaller containers with wax paper over the surface of ice cream for your needed servings.

Utilize worn pillowcases

Don´t throw away those worn pillow cases in the rag bag. Snip a small hole in the center of end seam to use as dust-covers for clothing stored on hangers in the closet.

Hit the showers

We can actually use less hot water by taking showers rather than baths. Hidden savings on utilities.

Cash from the grocer

When grocery shopping and you realize you are low on cash, add the amount you need to the grocery check. Most all grocery stores will NOT charge Seniors for this convenience...you´ll save time and money this way, avoiding the trip to and charge of using an ATM machine. 7-11 stores will also allow cash of $10. without a charge, too.

Getting the best interest on your money

If you are able to keep a goodly amount of money in a savings account, are you getting the best interest available? You may want to put some of this money into a Certificate of Deposit. Check with your banker for the best rates to let your money work for you. If they offer you...say...5-1/4 interest on a 6 month C.D., ask if there is any way to earn more interest. I do, and I always get a better rate. Then have the bank deposit your monthly interest earned from the C.D. into your regular savings account, building up more savings! Remember, you pay taxes on income earned, but then you´ll have these savings to pay the taxes.

Lining shelves with paper

To save money, try using heavy freezer wrap instead of white shelf paper to line your shelves...with the waxed side up. This can be wiped off with a damp cloth, and outwears more expensive shelf paper.

Saving on ATM charges

I don´t ever use the ATM machines. I mean NEVER! Why pay for using your own money. Is it really THAT convenient? Plan ahead and use the drive-in window or go inside the bank and cash a check. All those charges do add up, if your not careful.

Savings at the fireplace

Closing the damper tightly when not using the fireplace keeps heat from escaping up the chimney. A glass fireplace screen helps keep warm air from being drawn up the flue. Just remember to *open* the damper when burning the logs :o)