Opt for extra layers instead of turning up your thermostat

Energy bills can get downright astronomical once October rolls around. Try wearing an extra sweater and slippers — and snuggle up with your partner or pets. By turning your thermostat back 10-15 degrees for eight hours; you can save 5 percent to 15 percent a year on your heating bill.

Use curtains in lieu of a thermostat or air conditioner

Curtains help to keep your place cool in summer and warm in winter. Think about it: They block out sun and help prevent your home from turning into a greenhouse during the warm months, and they lock in heat during the frostier part of the year.

Pack your lunch

Believe it or not, brown-bagging it can save you more than $1,000 a year. Check out this mind-blowing “Lunch Savings” calculator for proof. You’ll definitely think twice about hitting up Q’doba on the fly.

Double your recipe so you’ll have leftovers

You likely won’t need to buy more ingredients; you’ll just use more of the ingredients you already have. That way, your meals will go twice as far and you’ll spend half as much. (Which could also lead to fewer trips to the grocery store — saving gas and time. The list of money-saving reasons for leftovers goes on – and on. Just like leftovers.)

Turn off the lights when you leave the house

Don’t be dim! Granted, you won’t become an overnight millionaire, but conserving energy is always a good thing. For best practices when it comes to this illuminating subject,

Ways To Save On Money - Leave the credit card at home

Decide how much “mad money” you will allow yourself per paycheck, and take it out in cash on payday. When you’re out — you’re out.

Ways To Save On Money Budget, budget, budget!

The most obvious, and perhaps most painful, way to save money is to create a BUDGET – and stick to it! In so doing, you’re forced to evaluate how you spend your money and what you’re spending it on.  Keep a journal of your spending habits to pinpoint your areas of opportunity. (Do you need a new pair of shoes each week?) Find more helpful tips to get you started here.