Simple Ways to Cut Costs in the Home — and Out

If you’re looking for ways to cut costs on everyday items around the home and in your day-to-day life, these simple tips can help you get started.

  1. Lower your thermostat. When you leave for work for the day, turn down your thermostat by 10 to 15 degrees (or switch off the air conditioner in the summer). This could lower your bill up to 15% throughout the year. Also, consider applying inexpensive shrink film to your windows during the winter for added insulation.
  2. Stop speeding. To save money on gas, drive the speed limit instead of over it. This can raise your fuel efficiency by up to 17%!
  3. Make coffee at home. This also goes for eating out, grabbing a snack, or going out for happy hour after work—limit these outings to once or twice a week instead of every day.
  4. Check the thrift store. Before you buy something new, such as an air conditioner or a winter coat, visit the thrift store or consignment shop first. You could save a great deal of money on something that’s in perfect condition!

5 big bills you can cut fast [Bankrate]
Lower Your Monthly Bills Checklist [Real Simple]
30 Ways To Cut Your Monthly Expenses [Lifehack]

Get Set for Tax Season with this Helpful IRS Guide

Beginning a bit late this year, 2014's tax season runs from January 31st to April 15th. To help you get ready to file your taxes, the Internal Revenue Service has created an informative tax guide.

This comprehensive guide helps taxpayers learn about a number of tax deductions and credits, such as the Child Care Tax Credit, the Earned Income Tax Credit, and various credits and deductions to help offset the costs of college.

Known as Publication 17, the guide has been published for more than fifty years in order to keep taxpayers updated on the latest changes to tax law. In addition to tax topics like capital gains, planning for retirement, claiming dependents, and itemizing deductions, the guide includes information on recent tax changes like revised tax rates and benefits.

Interested? You can learn more about Publication 17 by visiting the IRS website.

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