Best Loss Method

Utility Savings. Lowering the thermostat on your water heater by 10°F can save you between 3-5 percent in energy costs.

Spend to Save
Let's face it, utility costs seldom go down over time, so take charge now and weatherize your home. Call your utility company and ask for an energy audit or find a certified contractor who can give you a whole-home energy efficiency review.

Take a "Staycation" If you can't drive the distance, look for cheap flights in your region.

Take a "Staycation". Though the term may be trendy, the thought behind it is solid: instead of dropping several thousand on airline tickets overseas, look in your own backyard for fun vacations close to home.

Stop Smoking. According to the Centers for Disease Control, the percentage of Americans who smoke ci******es is now below 20 percent for the first time since at least the mid-1960s — join the club!

Stop Smoking. No, it's certainly not easy to quit, but if you smoke a pack and a half every day, that amounts to nearly $3,000 a year you can realize in savings if you quit.

Pay Yourself First. Whether it's $50 every two weeks or $500, don't cheat yourself out of a healthy long-term savings plan.

Pay Yourself First. Set up an auto debit from your checking account to your savings account each payday.

Set Savings Goals. Want to buy a house in three years with a 20 percent down payment? Now you have a target and know what you will need to save each month to achieve your goal.

Set Savings Goals. One of the best ways to save money is by visualizing what you are saving for. If you need motivation, set saving targets along with a timeline to make it easier to save.

Eliminate Your Debt. A personal line of credit is just one option for consolidating debt so you can better pay it off.

If you're trying to save money through budgeting but still carrying a large debt burden, start with the debt. Not convinced? Add up how much you spend servicing your debt each month, and you'll quickly see.