Conclusion: Don't be cheap
It's easy to slam being cost-conscious as being cheap. I couldn't disagree more. It's not about cost, it's about value, and I'm value-oriented. I get a good feeling when I've gotten a good deal. Half price dining is great, yet I always leave a generous tip on the full undiscounted amount. I'm not staying in a flea-bag motel nor forgoing the big screen TV or cable to watch the Super Bowl. And that I drive the worst car in the neighborhood, demonstrating that my self-worth isn't defined by what I drive, is actually a source of pride.
So this isn't about being cheap - it's about getting the most for your money. While these are all my tried-and true ways of getting the most for your money, Clark Howard makes me look like an amateur by comparison: His recent book, Living Large in Lean Times, will give you over 250 great ways to spend smarter and live larger.
Adapt my motto: "Never pay retail." Admittedly, it's more of an aspiration than a reality.
Thanks - nice comments are always appreciated by the authors!
Thanks - a credit card gives more protection than a debit card. So the same 2% cash back with no fees so I'll stick to the credit card.
(1) Didn't know there was a 60 day thing with CDs out there. Good to know. For the rainy-day fund... I use IngDirect, but the interest rates are ... crap in comparison to your CDs. But more liquid.
(2) 2% credit card? Just get a 2% debit card instead: PerkStreet is the most prominent right now, but there are others.
-t
I'm not sure how you reached the conclusion on where I spend my money. I will tell you two things:
1) Fair competition is good and brings down prices.
2) Most issues are not as one sided as you and most politicians think.
I like most of these - especially #10. Cut your own hair?
Not taking it personally at all. I'm neither pro or con big business. I could get into the psychology of teaser rates but the word "teaser" says it all. Don't have the smartphone app you refer to. Cost benefit of getting a newer smaller car with better gas mileage isn't close. Keep the car.
Not taking it personally at all. I'm neither pro or con big business. I could get into the psychology of teaser rates but the word "teaser" says it all. Don't have the smartphone app you refer to. Cost benefit of getting a newer smaller car with better gas mileage isn't close. Keep the car.