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Q & A

Question: My fiance and I both don’t have any debt. We have a joint account that we each put 80% of our money into. We can each do what we want with the 20%. I am trying to figure out how to lower the everyday bills. Any tips would be appreciated! EV

Dear EV,
Congrats to you and your fiance for not having any debt. When it comes to lowering everyday bills, I recommend you check the following:

1) For cable, television and internet – Do you currently have a bundle package? If not then, contact your local providers and find out what they have to offer.

2) When it comes to utilities – Do they have a program where you bill is a fixed rate regardless of what is happening with the weather? Check with the utility company.

3) Groceries – Two words Price Shop. Next word – Coupons. Watch your local paper for the different sales that are happening. Or even warehouse shopping for those items that you could purchase in bulk and save over the long-term. **Another thing – eat before you go shopping AND plan your shopping trips for all in one day which can reduce the amount of money you are spending on gas.

4) Entertainment – One word Groupon or Living Social if that is in your area! We have gotten some fantastic deals on meals and outings for the family that would have otherwise been very costly. When it comes to renting movies – we use either Redbox or Netflix.

5) Working outside the home – Take your lunches instead of going out to eat during the day. This requires that you meal plan your lunches and buy accordingly. Make sure there is enough variety so you do not get bored with your lunches.

Question: I’m upset with my fiance about his debts, what do I do? Signed, Frustrated over Finances

Answer: Dear Frustrated over Finances,

The good part is that you and your fiance are talking about money before getting married. What you must remember is, anything that happened before you and your soon to be spouse got together you cannot judge. You were not there (more than likely) and don’t know why he did what he did. Sure, you may have to live with some of the repercussions initially until both of you decide how to handle it. So I say, continue talking about the finances and work it out together so you know how to resolve the issue together even before you say “I Do”.