As a mom, it can feel like you’re being pulled in a million different directions, and it can be hard to find the time or energy to focus on your finances.

But trust me, taking charge of your money and finding ways to save can make a huge difference in the financial health of your family and the quality of life as a whole.

Here are 20 tips I’ve picked up over the years that will help you save money and feel more secure about your finances.

1. Make a budget

Make a budget and stick to it

This may seem like an obvious piece of advice, but you should always start with the basics. Sit down and look closely at your money coming in and going out to figure out where it’s going.

Do you spend more money than you make? Are you spending too much on certain things?

By making a budget, you can see where you can save money and make better decisions about your money.

2. Cut unnecessary expenses

Now that you know where your money is going, you can start cutting expenses that aren’t necessary. This could be as easy as canceling a subscription you no longer use, or eating out and takeout less. Look for places where you can save money and put that money toward savings or other goals.

3. Look around for the best deals

Take the time to look around and compare prices before you buy something. This can be especially helpful for things like groceries and things you need for your home.

Find the best deals by using apps and websites, and don’t be afraid to haggle with salespeople or ask for discounts. You won’t know if you can get an extra discount unless you ask.

4. Use apps that give you cash back and credit card rewards

Using cash-back apps and credit card rewards is another way to save money on things you buy every day. You can get money or points back on your purchases through these programs, which can add up over time.

Just make sure to pay off your credit card balance in full every month, so you don’t have to pay interest.

5. Make a list of what you need to buy and stick to it

It’s easy to buy things on the spot and spend more than you had planned. To avoid this, make a list of what you need to buy before you go shopping and stick to it.

This will help you stay on track and keep you from buying things you don’t need.

6. Plan meals ahead of time

You can save a lot of money on groceries and takeout if you plan your meals ahead of time. Plan your meals for the week and make a grocery list based on what you plan to eat.

This way, you’ll only buy what you require and waste less food.

7. Use coupons and sales to save money

Use coupons and sales to save money on things you buy every day. Sign up for the email lists of your favorite stores to find out about sales and keep an eye out for coupons in the mail or online.

8. Lessen how much energy you use

You can cut down on your energy use to save money on your monthly bills. This could mean turning off the lights when you leave a room, using energy-efficient appliances, and unplugging electronics when they’re not in use. 

TIP: Super-cooling your home at night could help save on the electric bill in the Summer.

9. Talk about your bills

Don’t be afraid to talk to service providers about your bills. If you’ve been a loyal customer for a while, they might be willing to give you a discount or work out a better rate for you. 

It’s never a bad idea to ask! Especially with services that give you introductory pricing for a limited time.

10. Buy used things

Buying used clothes, furniture, and other household items is a great way to save money. You can get great deals at thrift stores, garage sales, and online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace, eBay, and Poshmark.

You’ll not only save money, but you’ll also help people live more sustainably and reduce waste.

11. Do it on your own

Instead of paying someone else to do a job or fix something, you might want to do it yourself. There are many tutorials and how-to guides and other resources online that can help you learn how to do a wide range of projects. You can save money on labor costs and feel good about what you’ve done.

12. Refinance your debts

Refinancing debts with high interest rates, like credit card debt or student loans, can save you money in the long run. You can pay off your debts faster and pay less in interest if you refinance to a lower interest rate.

13. Set up an automatic way to save

Setting up automatic transfers from your checking account to your savings account is one of the easiest ways to save money. This way, you won’t have to remember to transfer money by hand, and you’ll be able to save without even thinking about it.

14. Find free or cheap ways to have fun.

There are lots of fun things to do that don’t cost a lot of money. You could go on a hike, have a picnic, or visit a park or museum nearby. You can also check out community centers, libraries, and social media groups to find events and activities that are free or don’t cost much.

15. Spend money on quality items

Even though it might be tempting to choose the cheapest option, sometimes it’s better to spend a little more on something that will last longer. This could mean spending a little more on a long-lasting appliance or piece of clothing, so you don’t have to keep buying new ones.

16. Buy in bulk

When you buy in bulk, you can save money on things like toiletries, household items, and foods that don’t go bad. Just make sure to only buy what you know you’ll use, because buying more than you need can end up costing you more in the long run.

17. Use cash to buy small things.

Buying small things like coffee or snacks with cash can help you be more aware of how much you’re spending.

When you pay with cash, you’re more likely to think twice before buying something, but when you swipe a card, it can feel more impersonal and easier to justify.

18. For bigger purchases, use a credit card with cash back rewards.

Cash can be useful for small purchases, but a cashback rewards credit card can help you save money and earn rewards on bigger purchases, like flights or hotels.

Just make sure to pay off your balance in full every month, so you don’t have to pay interest.

19. Start a side business

If you enjoy a skill or hobby, you could use it to make extra money on the side. A side job can bring in extra cash and help you save more money. This could be selling your crafts on Etsy, affiliate marketing, freelance artist, or starting a direct sales business. 

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20. Save your extra money

If you get money you didn’t expect, like a bonus or a tax refund, you might want to put it in your savings account instead of spending it. This can help you save money more quickly and reach your financial goals faster.

It can be hard to save money as a mom, but if you take it one step at a time, and make small changes to the way you spend, you can make a big difference in the financial health of your family.

Don’t give up if you don’t see results right away. Saving money is a process, not a goal. You can get ahead and reach your financial goals if you are patient and don’t give up.

So, which tips are you going to try first to start saving money?