 TITLE: How to Avoid Overspending Each Month CONTENT: Reduce Monthly Bills\n--------------------\nRecurring bills like rent or mortgage payments, utilities or phone plans probably make up a large portion of your monthly outflow, so they're a good place to economize. Here are a few opportunities to explore:\n*   **Utilities**: Cutting energy consumption is always a worthy goal. Use appliances less often, turn lights off and set the thermostat to a slightly less comfortable setting. Also consider switching to low-energy lightbulbs and appliances: They may save you money on utilities, though they'll also cost you upfront.\n*   **Monthly phone or internet charges**: Can you reduce your service level without suffering? Is a comparable plan available for less money?\n*   **Insurance**: Shop your home or auto policy to see if you can find a better rate. You may be eligible for a multi-policy discount if you have more than one policy with the same carrier.\n*   **Credit cards**: Bring your monthly payments down by paying off debt and resisting the urge to charge. Also explore whether debt consolidation might lower your monthly bills.\nIf your budget feels out of whack no matter how much you recalculate, take a closer look at your housing expense. Rent or mortgage payments can take up so much of your budget that there's barely any money left to live. Though moving is a big decision, you may want to consider finding more affordable housing or refinancing the home you own if your housing expenses are weighing you down. END