If you anticipate this to be an annual expense than plan for $8.50 a month. Isn't $8.50 easier to save than $100? You can save that much by using coupons, saving change, taking it out of your paycheck with your bills, etc. Then put it in a separate savings account, one that you won't use often. ingdirect.com would be great place. Or..at your own bank or credit union, open a 12 month dedicated savings. It's a CD that you can add to during the term plus you earn a CD rate. When it matures, pay your membership and begin again. ... View related article.
Consumer Reports Magazine has a lot to say about the pros and cons of leasing vs. buying. Their advice may help you make a decision that's right for your family or at least give you some proof to back up your argument so you and your husband can compromise. ... View related article.
I just read a great book called "Shattering the 2-Income Myth." It teaches ways for a stay-at-home spouse to "work the home." There are a lot of things you can do from home, working or not, to make up for the lost income. It's really interesting and has hundreds of great tips. Pick it up from the library. ... View related article.
Every community, usually an association of counties, will have a heat assistance program. Also, check in the local Division of Workforce Services. They know about a ton of resources. Also, make lowering the utilities a family affair. Teach the kids what they can do, keep a list they can write their initial on after they do certain tasks (like turning off the lights, turning the water off while they brush, etc.), and then show them the difference it makes when the bill comes. Reward them with a fun activity like have a movie night w/ a rented movie or going out for pizza. ... View related article.
