What are you doing to save $$$?

It is evident for many of us just how dire the economy has become. Loss of jobs and homes, increasing cost of food and goods, and less extra money all weighing heavy on everyone it seems. Normally I really don't think about the economy, however, I have found myself worrying about things like finances and how to get from one month to the next.

Clipping coupons has become a necessity. Anytime you can save a few cents here or there becomes a game. I actually like seeing the money coming off the total at the check-stand. Of course I also love to vacuum, so you can see how I might be a bit on the weird end. But seriously, living frugally is hard to do, especially in this day and age where credit is used more than it should be.

So, here are few ways that I am saving a little here and there, and even earning a little here and there.

First, GPT sites. These sites are not for earning tons of money, but if you stick to the 100% free offers, you can earn money. It can take a while, but if you are on the computer anyway, why not earn a few dollars each time, right!

My GPT sites (of course providing a link as a referral)

Treasure Trooper http://www.treasuretrooper.com/254833

****This site is a little fun site providing you with quarter surveys, etc. I have made nearly $200 by just doing piddly free offers. Just be sure to click the final offers page at the end (usually the silver is one offer, Gold is 2 offers, and platinum is 4 offers) you click them open for a few seconds and move on, you do NOT need to purchase anything.

CashCrate: http://cashcrate.com/500301

***This one is a new of for me, but I am earning, I have been lax in this site but now almost to the minimum payout, which is $20.00 Again with strictly FREE offers and surveys.

Inboxdollars: This on I have no link for. I have been just reading their emails (hint: sent up your inbox to put your inboxdollars emails in a separate folder). This beginning minimum payment is $30, i am nearly to that just by clicking emails.

Sendearnings: This is the same as inboxdollars. Treat it the same way and click emails to earn money.

Now, these are the ones that I am using right now. Like I said, its slow, but if your messing around on the computer anyway, why not take a few minutes each day and earn for your trouble!

Now, heres another site I absolutely LOVE!!

Mypoints: You must sign up for this site! This past year I earned enough points to purchase gift cards for family members christmas gifts! All you do is sign up for the service. Its FREE! You earn for reading emails (5pts per email); Earn for completing surveys, signing up for websites you find interesting, websearching,playing games, etc. You can redeem your points for gas cards, target cards, walmart, and more--70 different choices.

Other things to do to save $$$:

Clip your coupons: (MyPoints also has a coupon center, you print, clip, redeem and earn points so you save money and earn points). Every little bit counts!!!

Shop Generics: Look for generics to your favorite food items. At Target stores their Generic Brand is usually much cheaper, and the taste is the same. From soups to cereals, you can save money just by shopping the generics.

Gas: Watch the gas prices as you drive by different places. Most of the time they will change the price in the later evening. I work 3 nights a week and am driving past a QuickTrip on the way there (5:30pm) and on the way home (10pm). If the price per gallon is going to change I see the price at 5:30pm and then by 10pm its either cheaper of more.

Lower your thermostat: Just a few degrees cooler and you will see a difference in your monthly statement. You put on socks and a sweater during the and save on your monthly costs.

PAY CASH: Get away from the credit cards! If you can't pay for it in cash, then you don't need it right now! Work on paying down credit and stay on budget. If you were doing without that big screen TV before, then you really don't need it now. Save up! Purchase with cash, a TV will be there a few months down the road.

There are numerous things you can do to shed expenses, earn a little here and there. We just have to change our mindset. Which is hard to do!! I am Trying!