ALWAYS ASK for these discounts...

Cash payment
As first reported by The Wall Street Journal, Visa Inc. and Mastercard Inc. plan to increase the fees they charge merchants for processing credit card payments by more than $500 million! So going forward, merchants will eagerly accept cash.

Recent transaction on a day trip to Del Norte Colorado:
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Senior citizens discount
If you enroll in an AARP or Association of Mature American Citizens membership on your 50th birthday, you’ll have a head start cashing in on senior discounts. For all other discounts, the minimum age requirements vary based on the company or location and can range from 50 to 65 years of age.

A great guide is here.  For food deals,


Cheapo Remodeling >> Save Hundreds of $$$

Kitchen cabinets don't need expensive brass handles. In fact, they don't need handles at all!

Cinder blocks and 2X4 can make for great cocktail tables and entertainment centers.
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With all pros and cons of wood vs composite considered, I recommend composite decking to best set your deck up for long-term enjoyment. A durable, low-maintenance Trex deck is a sound long-term investment that won’t commit you to the unwieldy regular upkeep demands of wood. 


Strategic shopping can save you more money than coupons

Buy produce and non-perishable items that are in season:
Focus on watermelon and berries in summer and citrus in winter
Canned soup, baking supplies, cold medicines, canned fruits and vegetables, baking supplies, and oatmeal are all cheapest in winter

Use what you buy and don't buy more than you need:
Freeze or re-purpose leftovers
Avoid overbuying and throwing away food
Check for expiration dates and consider the shelf life of products

Take advantage of store loyalty programs:
Get a loyalty card to access sale prices
Earn bonuses and discounts by using your card
Clip digital coupons and automatically apply them at checkout

Learn the sale cycles of your favorite products:
Pay attention to when your favorite products go on sale
Calculate the price per unit and stock up when prices are low

Ask about markdowns and find the store clearance rack:
Inquire about unsold product markdowns with department managers
Look for discontinued products in sale bins for additional savings

Try store brands.  You will find many are just as good as national brands. Walmart's Great Value canned veggies work for us!


Free Food = The Easiest Way to Become Frugal

  • Start your own garden
  • Barter with neighbors who have large gardens
  • Take up hunting/fishing
  • Work at a hall that hosts weddings and funerals - or get friendly with someone who does – take home salads, leftover chicken, etc.
  • Go to the grocery store and take advantage of free food demonstrations since they usually give samples