How to Save Money on Internet Service Every Month

The Internet is practically indispensable for people in modern society. People rely on it to take care of bill payments. They depend on it to get access to the latest news developments. 

They even use it to receive local temperature and weather updates. If you love the Internet but want to save on your monthly Internet expenses, you need to test these suggestions out.

Do Significant Research

Don’t ever assume that your Internet service provider is the cheapest one around. Take the time to research other providers that are available in your region. Online price assessment devices can help you figure out which providers may be better value for your money. 





If you discover a cheaper option, reach out to your current provider. Inform the staff member on the line about your discovery. You may be able to get access to an even better monthly rate.

Search for Promotions and Deals

Be on the lookout for exciting promotions and deals that may be accessible to you through Internet service providers. If you score a terrific deal, you could end up paying less for service for a significant stretch of time. 

Some companies offer deals that are good for as long as a full year, believe it or not. If you want to continue saving big, talk to your provider once the deal period is coming to a close.

Find out if You’re a Subsidy Candidate

There are many subsidies out there that can help people decrease their satellite internet for streaming costs. You may just be a good candidate for one. 

If you want to reduce your speedy satellite internet service costs considerably, subsidies may be able to help you achieve that goal. 

There are subsidies for public housing residents. There are even subsidies for households that fit into certain income brackets.

Decrease Your Internet Speed

You can also minimize your monthly Internet costs by decreasing your speed. Don’t assume that higher is always better. It’s not always necessary for people. If you don’t do a lot of video streaming on the Internet, you may not even realize that your speed is any different than it was before. 

The majority of households out there are A-OK with speeds that are in the range of 20 to 30 MBPS (megabits per second).

If you want to decrease your Internet service costs monthly, you should have no issues. There are many convenient and practical options. It’s just a matter of being proactive and learning about them.

How to Set Aside Extra Funds for a Rainy Day

If you’re looking to do something on a rainy day, you’re going to need some extra money to do so. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways you can set aside money for a rainy day. Here are some of the best ways you can start putting away extra funds today!

Swear Jar

One of the easiest ways you can set aside money for a rainy day is by establishing a swear jar for the family. The premise is pretty simple, every time someone swears, they put a quarter in the jar. 

Depending on what kind of family you have, the next rainy day you spend together can be a lot of fun not that you have some extra funds to spend.

Savings Account

Another popular way of setting aside some extra funds for a rainy day is to set up an additional savings account at your bank. Simply put two to three percent of your paycheck into this account and watch your funds grow. 



This is a great way to keep your cash untouched until the next rainy day. By the time the next rainy day comes, you’ll have plenty of money to spend with your family or significant other.

Pawn Your Gold Jewelry

One way to add a little bit of cash to your rainy day fund is by pawning your gold jewelry. If you have broken pieces of jewelry or things that you don’t wear anymore, there is no point in keeping them around your home. 

Instead, head down to your local pawn shop and sell them. Alternatively, if you need some quick cash, you can pawn jewelry in your home and return for it later on.

Searching for Change

Another great way to find extra cash for a rainy day is by checking for loose change around your home and in your car. You can likely find some lost money in between your couch cushions, under the bed, in your car’s glove compartment, and more. 

You may even find an old piggy bank that you had forgotten about. You never know how much cash you will come across!

Rainy days can feel pretty glum, but they can get a whole lot better when you have extra funds to spend. Hopefully, with the help of the examples above, you can get a better idea of how you can set rainy day funds aside and enjoy the day off, even if it is downpouring outside.

7 Apps to Save Money

For many people saving money, budgeting and tracking their finances is an utmost difficult. That’s because there are money saving apps are bombarded with a bunch of discounts and offers. Money saving apps have been on trend for the past few years. 

The most attractive thing about these apps is the various offers and cash back opportunities. Want to save more money on shopping, to recharge, to pay bills etc? paytm, phonepe and much more have got your back! 

Now, just by using any one of the apps down and save money by getting unbelievable cash back offers and amazing discounts.

Here are the 7 apps that everyone can save money through: 

Paytm

Paytm has started 8 years ago. It is one most user-friendly, most loved and trusted e-commerce and e-payments brand. Everyone can save money by shopping or by booking tickets online or by recharge your mobile/ DTH/broadband/landline/data card and cable TV or pay your bills for electricity, water, gas, and credit cards. Just add money to your Paytm Wallet and be eligible to pay any other Paytm user. 

You can transfer your Paytm money/cash back to your bank too. Here is best promo code that paytm offers to save money on buying groceries up to 200/-

• paytm newly introduced this promo code ONCEAMONTH. But above 300/- purchasing products are available to use this promo code. And this offer is only applicable for once in a month. You can save 200/- per month. 

likewise there n number of discounts and offers and promo codes are available in paytm. Use BHIM UPI to pay to get additional Rs. 30 cash back for your first UPI based transaction on Paytm. Get the Paytm app for free on the Google Play Store and App Store.

Phonepe

Phonepe! It is one of the brands. By using phonepe everyone can receive instant refunds and cash backs from your favourite shopping destinations. 

Just link your bank account to the phonepe app and make secure payments and hassle-free directly from your bank account 24/7. They are providing multiple payment modes; make your daily payments seem less by this one, use your UPI enabled bank account, phonepe wallet or your debit and credit card. 

If you use phonepe for everyday payments for mobile recharge, utility bills and for booking tickets etc., you will get 70% cash back offer. Recently, phonepe introduces gold sell option. You can buy gold at a reasonable price. Get the phonepe app for free on the Google Play Store and App Store.

• You can save up to 50% of your money on payments via UPI transactions. 

And there are various offers providing to save money like on DTH recharges you can get upto INR 300 cashback.

Free charge

Freecharge is one of the recharge and bill payments brand and as its name suggests, it offers you cash back in wholesale! Free recharge’s goal is to provide you with free recharges by offering you the same amount of coupons as the recharge amount. 

Use free charge app and get coupons for exciting fascinating clothing brands, restaurants, movie tickets and many more. Also get cash back on your transaction using your Freecharge account at a merchant’s website. 

Ultimately, you can save money on this app. you have an opportunity to save up to Rs. 100/. Freecharge is available for free on Play Store and App Store. 

• Everyone can save up to 150/- rupees on postpaid bills. 

MakeMyTrip

MakeMyTrip is one of the money savings apps by giving special discounts on travelling. It was started 18 years ago and successfully leading with best customer satisfaction till now. MakeMyTrip offers great offers exclusive discounts and a seamless online booking experience. 

Flight, holiday and hotel bookings through the website or mobile app is a delightfully customer-friendly experience. By just a few clicks you can complete your booking. Ultimately, this one gives instant discounts, my rewards program, fare calendar, my wallet and many more. 

By just sign up and by inviting referrals chances to earn money to 555/-. Download the MakeMyTrip app from the Google Play Store or App Store for free.

Mobikwik

Mobikwik is also one of the money saving app. It allows you to pay for hotels and bus tickets along with mobile recharge and payments. Add your money to Mobikwik wallet and enjoy cashless payments in major stores and vendors using Mobikwik. 

In their 10 years of presence in the e-payments industry, Mobikwik has managed to catch a lot of attention because of its eye-catching Rs. 150 cash back offers and also allows you to convert your Payback card points into super cash and can be used for payments. Get the mobikwik app from the Google Play Store or App Store for free.

• By applying online recharge offers everyone can save money up to 15/- 

Tez

Tez is a mobile-friendly payment service provided by Google. This one asks for your mobile number associated with your bank accounts to set up the app. We can get cash back by transferring money. 

After a referral, both people will get the money added to their bank's accounts. By transferring amount every time you can get a scratch card only once in a week. Scratch card gives the user the chance to earn up to 1000/- like this you can save money. Download Tez app from the Google Play Store or App Store for free.

• Google is offering users 51/- for referring new users to use the app by this you can add money to your bank.

payZapp

PayZapp is a complete payment solution giving you the power of pay and offers in just one click. Just download the app and link your debit or credit card by scanning it and you are good to go. Get amazing offers on the same. Best deals on shopping, dining, travelling, and movies are here.

• Use coupon code “ACTIVE” to get Rs. 25 cashback on Rs. 100 DTH recharge amount. So, everyone can save money up to 25/- 

Now make instant payments at malls, restaurants, cab service and much more using PayZapp to avail cashback. Get the payZapp from the Google Play Store or App Store for free.

By the introduction of above money saving apps, life is becoming easier day by day and practically free. Cashback and discounts are so readily offered, and basically, online payments save a lot of time and money and provides extra discount/cashback using online recharge offers. Go ahead with these amazing savings apps online today!

6 Ways a Smartphone Can Help Seniors Save Money

Thinking of buying a mobile phone but not sure you want to spend the money on a smartphone? Did you know buying the more expensive smartphone can actually save you money in many ways? 

Before you pick out a flip phone, let's look at different ways your smartphone helps you save time and money in today's world.

Ease of Smartphones

Carrying a mini-computer in your pocket once belonged to the realm of science fiction. But today, smartphones are just that, a mini-computer. Capabilities include tracking and managing your finances, comparison shopping from the store (should I buy it here or somewhere else?), and taking quality pictures without buying a high-end camera. 

When you purchase a smartphone from a reliable carrier like T-Mobile, the world is at your feet.

Money Management

There's an app for almost everything today including tracking your finances, checking your balances, paying bills, and even swiping your phone instead of a credit card. Choosing a financial management app is the hardest part. 

Look for apps with a lot of positive reviews, such as Mint.com or BillGuard. These apps keep your information secure and let you track with the ease of touching the phone screen.




Banks also offer smartphone apps for checking your balance, paying bills, and transferring funds. Some even make it possible to deposit checks into your account. Plus, new security measures make online transactions safer than ever. 

Purchase items with your phone using digital checks, debit cards, or credit cards. Never worry about losing your checkbook or credit cards again. All you need is your phone.

Compare Prices

Why go from store to store comparing prices and then find out the first stop had the best deal? Sit in the comfort of your living room and let your phone do the shopping. Apps let you compare prices in both stores and online. 

Once you decide which items you want, pay with your phone, and decide if you want to pick up the item or have it shipped directly to you. You save time and gasoline; plus, your feet won't tire out.

Energy Saver

Purchasing a new appliance is more than just comparing prices. You need information about the cost of energy for of running that appliance. With an energy saving app on your phone, just input the manufacturer and model of your selection. 

The app calculates the cost of gas or electricity over the next several years. That way, you know if a new appliance is energy-efficient and worth the price of the item. This helps you save money throughout the life of the appliance.

Use your phone for controlling your home thermostat, even when you're away. Turn on the lights before you get home and don't enter a darkened house risking trips or falls. 

Check the weather on your phone's weather app before heading out the door or find out road conditions after storms move in. Smartphones let you do all those things with just a swipe or touch of the screen.

Picture Taking

Some of the best point-and-shoot cameras available come on smartphones. Many of the latest phones offer dual cameras for close-up and far away shots. Recent technology lets these cameras take shots that come out clear, crisp, and frame-worthy. 

Using your phone as your camera also means you only have one thing to take along with you, not two. And, it's easy for posting online when the pictures are on your phone and not a separate camera. Share with friends and relatives without downloading to a computer.

Navigation Help

No more hard-to-fold paper maps when you travel. GPS systems come standard with smartphones. These map apps not only show you the route but give directions out loud as you drive. Your eyes never leave the road helping you arrive safely at your destination. These tools don't even need a Wi-Fi connection.

So, consider buying a smartphone. It still makes and receives calls, but a smartphone offers so much more. Whether you're checking prices, looking for the nearest gas station, or needing a map, a smartphone offers all that and fits comfortably in your pocket. What more do you need?

How to Save Money on Heating Costs during the Cold Winter Months

 It just seems that the weather becomes worse with every winter we experience. The extreme cold temperatures, wild snowstorms, and damaging winds can really affect the size of our heating bills. If you’re looking for ways to save money on heating costs, you’ve come to the right place.

Dress Warm While Inside

You may be tempted to increase the heat in your home by turning up your thermostat. This will heat up your home to a pleasant tropical climate, but it will also drain essential money from your checking account once the bill arrives. 

Instead of turning up your thermostat, opt to dress in warmer clothes while you’re milling around in your home. Purchase some cute fuzzy socks, a comfortable hoodie, and thick pajama pants or sweat pants. This is an affordable way to keep yourself warm and your heating bill down.

Winterize Your Home

Sometimes, your home becomes cold despite your furnace’s best efforts because cold drafts are finding their way into your homes to turn it into an ice box. This can be fixed with a quick trip to a local home improvement store to purchase a window insulator kit. 

These insulator kits usually come with a roll of plastic, double-sided tape, and instructions. This kit is designed to prevent cold air from getting into your home through openings around your windows and doors once properly installed.

Free Solar Heating

The sun is one of the most powerful forces in our universe. It provides life-giving warmth, light, and comfort. During the darkest time of the year when sunlight is scarce, don’t hesitate to take advantage of the heat it provides. 

If you have windows that face east while the sun is rising, open the curtains to let in the warm rays. They will warm your home for free. Once the sun begins to set, close your curtains to trap the heat and enjoy a warmer home at no cost to you.

Proper Furnace Maintenance

Keeping your furnace working at optimal levels is essential to ensuring a low heating bill. Furnaces are like any other piece of machinery. They need regular maintenance to ensure they function at peak performance. 

Be sure to schedule an appointment with a professional HVAC contractor to inspect your furnace and perform any repairs that might be required. You should also consider replacing your furnace filters. 

A dirty filter can cause your furnace to work harder to send heat through your home. Aim at replacing the filter once a month to keep your furnace costs down.

As an added tip to save money on your heating bill, try turning down the thermostat during the day. Once night falls and the temperature drops, turn your thermostat back up to a comfortable temperature. You can survive the day with a bit of a chilly house in order to have a warm house during the cold night.

Tips to Save Your Business Money

Retirement may be closing in, but that's no reason to ignore the changing tech that will save your business money and keep you up to date in the ever-changing, fast-moving world. 

You may have spent a few decades building your business from scratch, but a lot of the habits that you’ve grown into may be costing you more than you think. When it comes to using technology, it’s often easier to fall into the mindset of deciding it’s for the younger generation, but doing so may end up costing you more than you realize. 

Taking advantage of the technological perks of the modern world may just make your much-anticipated retirement even better.

Social Media

You may have been advertising in your local paper for the last 30 years, and you probably even get a long-term discount. The question that you need to ask yourself is whether or not that money is a business investment or a legacy of the days before social media? 

You may not be an avid user of Twitter, and you might just use Facebook to keep up with the grandkids, but it can be used for so much more than that.

Setting up a business page is quick and easy, and then it’s simply a matter of making an update or two every day, letting customers know about new stock, sharing relevant news articles or just a plain old “Good morning!” 



It may end up reaching more people and costing significantly less than that 30-year-old newspaper ad.

Trust in the technology

You might find that doing accounts on your computer is a lot more intimidating than sending everything off to your accountant, but there are a lot of reasons to feel safe. 

Although we are able to store everything on our devices, from photographs of the grandchildren to your customer’s contact details, there’s always that niggling doubt that technology will eventually fail or criminals will attack you with the latest virus, so that everything you have online or on your phone/laptop/PC will be lost forever. 

Luckily, with the help of your local computer forensics company you’ll find that most data is easily retrievable, especially if a crime has been committed and you need to build a case against them. Whether it has been lost by human error, a computer glitch or a malicious hack, trained Digital Data Forensics experts will protect your business. 

Knowing that your computer files are safe frees you up to use more and more of the online tools available that will help your business not simply save money, but to also grow.

Stay at Home

If yours is the kind of business that doesn’t require a brick and mortar store, then perhaps it’s time to work from home. The days of everyone needing to make the journey into work only to sit in an isolated cubicle from 9-5 are quickly fading. 

These days it is possible (and very easy) to get out of bed, switch on the computer and start work. No travel time, no travel costs. You end up saving money for yourself, your staff and ultimately for your customers. 

Between Facebook, Skype, Google Hangouts, WhatsApp, or the vast number of other options available to you, communicating with work colleagues while working from home has never been easier. Just imagine the savings you could make when you no longer need to pay rent on that office space.

If those suggestions have got you thinking, then that’s not even the end of it. If you open your mind to the possibilities of moving everything online, then you might find that the savings and profits will see you enjoying your retirement with even more money in the bank.

Cut The Cord And Be Free From Outrageous Cable and Satellite Bills

Because of the ever rising prices over cable television and satellite TV services, lots of TV customers have "cut the cord." Cord cutting implies that a TV watcher can cancel cable television or satellite service and get TV programs through various other alternatives.

What You Will Need to Cut the Cord

There are 3 cord cutting alternatives available:

Antenna (Over the air TV) - The antenna is how TV began. You hook up an indoor or outside antenna to your TV and get programs from over-the-air local area and network affiliate TV stations. This is a good way to get totally free shows from the big TV networks (ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox, WB, and PBS). It is vital to keep in mind that older analog TVs, and numerous HDTVs made prior to 2007, will need a digital converter box that is put in between the antenna and the TV.

Streaming - Assuming that you have a smart TV, media streaming box or stick (Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Google Chromecast, Apple TV, and so on ), or smart Blu-ray Disk player, plus an Internet service, you can access streaming TV and film content minus an antenna or cable/satellite solution. Well-liked streaming services consist of Netflix, Hulu, Amazon, Crackle, Vudu, and YouTube. Some of these are free and some have a modest fee.

Blend of Antenna and Streaming- This is the best complete cord cutting solution as you can access regional TV stations without paying a fee, and even get access to extra content through the web. 

The accessibility of the aforementioned options to cable/satellite service make cutting the cord most certainly appealing. Nevertheless, there are both advantages and disadvantages to cord cutting. 

Cord Cutting Advantages 

Reduced expenses and no agreement - You are not tied to pricey cable services or locked into a satellite written agreement. 

A la carte channel choice - You can select exactly what channels and programs you desire. You do not need to purchase channels and programs you do not desire. 

Lower hardware charges - While you still need to purchase a smart TV, media streamer, and/or antenna so as to get the channels and programs you prefer, however that is a one time expense, not a repeating month-to-month charge that is needed for a cable/satellite box service. 

Streaming Services and Hardware Deals

• - Hulu Plus New Subscriber Only -
• - Roku Streaming Stick with Voice Control -
• - Get a FREE Roku Streaming Stick when you prepay 2 months of     DIRECTV -NOW. 120+ live channels and 10,000+ on-demand titles.
• - DIRECTV® NOW - Start Streaming Today! Starting at $35/mo. No        Satellite - Required, No Annual Contracts, Cancel Anytime.
• - Sign up for fuboTV - Plans Starting at $14.99 -

 This post may include affiliate links to products we love and use, please read our disclaimer.

Cord Cutting Disadvantages 

There are some fantastic advantages to cord cutting. However there are likewise some disadvantages to remember. 

Not every single thing is free of charge -Though over-the-air TV reception and lots of streaming channels are totally free, there are lots of streaming channels and services that call for a month-to-month membership or a pay-per-view charge. If you just pay for one or 2 subscription-based or pay-per-view programs, you can save dollars over cable/satellite. Nevertheless, if you keep including more pay services, those costs can build up, and you may again discover yourself with a significant monthly membership or pay-per-view expense that might equal that old cable/satellite charge. 

You might still require cable television or satellite - Access to some Internet streaming networks demand that you are even an active cable/satellite customer. What exactly this suggests is that although a few of the channels you appreciated on your cable television or satellite service are offered via Internet streaming free of charge, when you attempt to access some streaming channels, you might be expected to supply confirmation that you also get that channel through a cable television or satellite service. But this requirement has been fading out over the last few years.

Not all media streamers provide the very same stations -Smart TVs and Blu-ray players, along with standalone media streamers, do not all use the identical assortment of channels and services. Roku devices are the most complete with thousands of possibilities, however there are other media streamers (such as Amazon Fire TV, Google Chromecast, and others) that might not have the channels and services you want. 

Streaming limitations - If you decide to gain access to all your TV watching through streaming, understand the limitations on the quantity of video you can stream every month. If you go above your data limitation, your web costs will increase. Check first if your Internet provider has any data caps or restrictions.

The Bottom Line 

Prior to canceling your cable television or satellite service, make certain your intended cord-cutting choices will work for you. Many streaming services provide a cost free trial to see if their service is right for you. I have tries them all with the free trial. It's easy to sign up and start streaming immediately.

For the antenna alternative to work well, you have to reside in a place where it is simple to get over-the-air TV telecast signals. A smart idea is to link an antenna to your TV and see exactly what regional channels you can get. Even, look at your smart TV, Blu-ray Disc player, or media streamer to see if they provide the streaming channels and services you want. 

Simply, check out the antenna signal, examine the features of the smart boxes you have, and run the numbers to discover if you are really saving dollars. Then you'll learn if it's wise to cut the cord and cancel cable television.

The Green and Clean Home: How to Save Money on Your Monthly Energy Bills

If you’re like most consumers, you are diligent about saving money whenever you can, whether it’s by using mobile apps or coupons to get the best deals on products or services you buy or by following a strict household budget. 

While it’s virtually impossible to eliminate all monthly energy bills, here are a few tips to help you save some money on them.

Ask Energy Suppliers If They Offer a “Budget” Payment Plan

One of the fastest ways to put a “cap” on your monthly energy bills is by enrolling in your Energy Suppliers Budget Payment Plan. 

Instead of charging customers in full for their usage every month, the energy supplier averages your use and “budgets” payments across multiple months for a predictable price.

Turn down Your Thermometer

While you always want to make sure that you and your family are comfortable, dropping the temperature of your home by just a degree or two significantly impacts your monthly energy bill. 



If you wear a sweatshirt or cover up with a blanket, you’ll still be just as warm.

Winterize or Update Windows

Did you know that the average home can lose as much as 30% of treated (heated or cooled) air? As you can imagine, this is a devastating blow to your pocketbook and the efficiency of your home. 

If possible, consider upgrading your window system to prevent air leaks. If you’re unable to buy new windows, winterizing them is an affordable way to block leaks and prevent drafts.

Replace Old Light Bulbs

Over the years there have been significant improvements made in the lighting industry. Old incandescent light bulbs fell out in favor due to their inefficiency. 

Lighting solutions and bulbs from companies like LED Lighting Wholesale Inc. are energy efficient and flexible to meet the needs of consumers in the United States.

Smart Thermometer

Smart thermometers are a breakthrough that empowers people with remote technology so that they can control the climate (and many other aspects) of their home using an app or their Smartphone. 

If no one is home during the day, you can adjust the temperature accordingly, so you pay less when no one is home.

Take Advantage of Your Fireplace

Using your fireplace is a great way to save money on your energy bills each month. It might require a little extra work by purchasing for finding and splitting your own firewood, but it is worth it if you can heat your home without having to use your furnace. 

This helps you cut down on your gas and electric bills each month as you will be heating your home naturally.

Go Solar

Solar energy is on the rise. You may have even driven around your neighborhood and have noticed some of your neighbors have solar panels sitting on their roof. 

With harnessing the power of the sun can also go solar with your home and consequently save money each month. 

This way you are not having to pay out all of your money to you electric and gas companies. Instead, by going solar you can power your own home (for the most part) without those other companies.

The chances are good that your monthly energy bills account for a significant portion of your household spending. 

The more money you can save each month, the more your bank account will thank you. It also opens up other opportunities to spend your money elsewhere. 

By implementing some of the suggestions mentioned above, you’re doing what you can do to control your monthly energy usage and controlling your budget.

Down the Drain: How to Save Money on Your Business’s Utility Bills

Business owners often find that while they are attending to the other details of their companies, their utility costs have begun to skyrocket. 

You can limit your utility expenses if you implement a few basic controls that will have a long-term effect on costs. Some of these tips require an initial investment, but they will pay for themselves over the long run.

Utilize Natural Light

Instead of depending on artificial light sources for work areas in your business, let in the natural light that provides a healthier light source and reduces your energy costs. 

Install shades that allow the light in during favorable parts of the day that can be closed at times when the light shining into the building is too intense.

Use a Programmable Thermostat

Make sure your facility has programmable thermostats installed in various areas. 



These devices can be set to provide comfortable temperatures when people are in the building, but will automatically change the temperatures to reduce energy use when the building is empty. Programmable thermostats can save you hundreds of dollars each year.

Update Your Light Bulbs

If you are using the same type of lighting businesses have used for the last 40 years, you are wasting money on your electric bills. New types of lighting can provide superior lighting while minimizing the amount of electricity used, so you can increase your business’s productivity while lowering your utility costs.

Use Power Save or Sleep Mode on Equipment

Encourage your employees to use power saving modes on their computer equipment while they are at work. In addition, they should also make sure they use the sleep modes on these devices when they leave the office. The use of power strips can also help you to save energy and reduce your electricity bills.

Implement Water Conservation Measures

Ensure that toilet fixtures in your facility are water-conserving types that will reduce the overall amount of water your employees use throughout the year. Install faucets with aerators that reduce water use. 

Put up signs that encourage employees to turn off the faucets in between tasks to save water and reduce costs. If you are able to use non-potable water for your production processes, contact a local water treatment facility like Econocycle to arrange to utilize this resource instead of fully treated water.

Landscape with Water Efficiency in Mind

When landscaping around your facility, keep water conservation in mind. Plant tree and shrub species that are native plants or drought-tolerant that don’t need constant watering. 

Similarly, install a turf species that can thrive without constant watering or choose low-growing ground coverings that will be attractive, yet reduce overall water use.

Simple actions can make a big difference in your utility costs. If business owners take the time to do an audit of their energy use and water use, they can often find a number of ways to conserve resources and reduce expenses. 

Implement a few of these tips, and you will soon find that saving on utility costs will become part of your annual budgeting.

4 Apps to Help You Manage Your Money

When it comes to handling money, it can be a struggle to remember to save a percentage of your paycheck every month, figure out how and where to invest your money, and budget how much money you spend on fast food and going out every month. The vast majority of American adults report that money is among their top three stressors.

However, technology can change that. While it might be difficult for you to sit down regularly and crunch numbers on a spreadsheet, apps have made it easy to make smart money management a part of everyday life. 

It’s just one way that an app outweighs a computer program when it comes to habit management and convenience. There are a few apps that can make budgeting, saving, and managing money a breeze. Here are a few of my favorites: 

Digit

This app helps you save money every single day. The first month is free, and then after that it’s $5 a month. You connect this app to your bank account, and then it uses an algorithm to figure out how much money you can afford to save that day. 

It takes into account all of your spending habits, and also the total amount you have in your bank account that day. Some days it may only save $0.20, and other days the savings may be closer to $20.

You can set your preferences within the app. For example, you can put a limit on how much it saves every day, and then also tell it to never save money if you have less than a certain amount in your bank account. 

Digit is an easy way to save money without even thinking about it. Before you know it, you’ll have a few thousand dollars saved away and you won’t have even noticed. This is perfect if you’ve been trying to save for an emergency fund, but haven’t been able to put very much away. 

Acorns

If you’re having a hard time figuring out how to invest your money, Acorns is the app for you. This app works in the same way as Digit where it makes the most of your spare change, or the leftover money that you won’t miss. 

You simply connect your credit or debit card to the app. Any time you make a purchase, it will round the purchase up to the next dollar and invest the leftover cents. It invests in over 7,000 different stocks, to reduce risk and make the most out of your spare change. 

Using Acorns means that you don’t have to spend time trying to figure out how the stock market works. You can just go to happy hour and grocery shopping like normal, and suddenly you’re investing. 

Mint

This app helps you budget your money. You connect it to your checking account, so you have a real time balance of how much money you have available to spend. After entering in the amount of your necessary bills and expenses every month, it will tell you how much you have left to budget out however you want. 

It also tracks your spending, so if you exceed your set budget one month, it will alert you. Mint helps you be more aware of your spending, because you can very clearly see how much you’re spending on fast food or travel every month. 

Prism

Prism helps you pay all of your bills! It tracks your payday and every single recurring bill that you have. You won’t have to check a dozen different websites to check the balance of your utility bill and credit cards, you can just open Prism on your phone and see everything laid out with the balance and the due dates. 

It can help you schedule when to pay them, so you’ll never have a late fee again. Not only will this app help you keep track of every single one of your bills, it also makes paying your bills a breeze. Your credit score will stay safe because you’ll never forget about a bill ever again.