I wrote today about how BWI Airport has seen an uptick in passengers in four out of the last six months because people are flying its discount airlines.

Thanks to economy, many people aren't traveling at all. But those who are taking trips are looking for the best price out there.

More than 63 percent of BWI's flights are with discount airlines Southwest, AirTran and JetBlue. If you do enough comparison shopping you can normally find a good deal.

Take our poll and let us know how you decide which airport to use.

Photo by Amy Davis at The Sun

Posted by Andrea Walker at 12:32 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)
Categories: Airlines, Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Travel
        

When I came in this morning one of the big news stories of the day was Toys R Us offering layaway on high-priced items, such as bikes, play kitchens, trampolines and pools and water slides.

But not in Maryland.

A short sentence at the end of a press release said Maryland isn't included in the program, but didn't say why.

I called a spokesperson and got a vague email that said:  "We are working through some of the internal systems requirements unique to implementing the layaway program in Maryland."

Yeah, I don't know what that means either.

I called for further explanation but haven't heard back. I also called the Maryland Attorney General's office, which regulates layaway policies, to see if they know what the reasoning could be. I'll let you know when I hear back.

Toys R Us is offering the layaway program to compete for cash-strapped consumers during the important holiday season. Many consumers will be on tight budgets this year.

 Layway allows people to pay off gifts over time and can be a good alternative to charging on a credit card.  But watch for fees. The Toys R Us program has a $10 fee, for example.

Most stores don't offer layaway anymore, but there are a few, including Marshalls, Kmart and Sears.  I recently blogged about some other things Sears and Kmart are doing for the holidays.

Posted by Andrea Walker at 9:28 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Holiday shopping, Shopping
        

Looks like more of us are cutting up our credit cards, or putting them in the freezer for safe keeping.

The Associated Press is reporting that the Fed says consumers cut debt by a record $21.6 billion in July from June, the most since 1943.

Looks as if the bad economy could be making people think a little harder about how they use credit. Perhaps, the free spending ways of the last decade are behind us.

Anyone else finding that they are depending less on credit? Where else are you cutting back?

Posted by Andrea Walker at 5:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Budgeting, Credit cards, Credit reports, Debt
        

More consumers are trading down to store brands to save money during the recession and Consumer Reports found they're not giving up taste or quality to do it.

The magazine did a blind taste test of 29 store-brand foods and found that 23 tasted as good as, or better than, national brands.

For instance, Consumer Reports tasters preferred Archer Farms Chewy Soft Baked cookies, a Target store brand, to similar products by Pepperdige Farm. It liked Kirkland Signature Organic Medium Salsa by Cotsco over Old El Paso and Great Value Whipped Topping by Walmart to that by Kraft.

 “Our tests should erase any lingering doubts that store-brand packaged goods aren’t at least worth a try," Tod Marks, senior project editor, Consumer Reports Shopping, said in a statement. "In many cases, you’ll save money without compromising on quality.”

Consumer Reports said its test also found 19 other store-brand foods that tasted just as good—albeit a bit different— as their name brand competitor. Duncan Hines Family Style Chewy Fudge and Target’s Market Pantry Fudge brownies, and Grey Poupon and Publix’s GreenWise Market Organic mustard are just a few items on store shelves locked in a taste test tie, the magazine said.

The store-brand foods that Consumer Reports tested cost an average of 27 percent less than big-name counterparts—about as much as consumers will find across all product categories, according to industry experts.

The biggest price difference was 35 cents per ounce for Costco’s vanilla extract vs. $3.34 for McCormick’s.

Consumer Reports says the price gaps have less to do with what goes into the package than with the research, development, and marketing costs that help build a household name.

Tasters found America’s Choice (A&P) multigrain spaghetti with omega-3 at $1.59 per box to be similar to the costlier Barilla Plus at $2.25 per box (14.5 oz for each box). Testers found the difference to be marginal; "both pastas have a mild whole-grain flavor and are quite tasty with a nice sauce," the study found.

So how many of you are trading down to private brands? Do they taste as good as the national brands? What are some of your favorites?

Posted by Andrea Walker at 6:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Food, Shopping
        

As students head back to college campuses in the next couple of weeks, they're going to be met by credit card companies hawking plastic.

With credit card reform passed this year, credit cards have gotten a pretty bad reputation in some circles. College kids are getting warnings from everybody to stay away from the cards.

So now marketers are pushing prepaid cards. Parents put money on the cards that their kids then use. No more racking up debt. At least we hope.

But as my colleague Eileen Ambrose writes in a story in The Sun today, debit cards might not be that great of an alternative either. The cards come with fees, some which are hidden, she said.

Ambrose writes that a checking account with a debit card tied to it might be a better option. And when students learn to handle that responsibly over time, they can graduate to a credit card.

Posted by Andrea Walker at 9:40 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)
Categories: Budgeting, College/Financial aid, Credit cards
        

It isn't what you think.

Most people might assume that new cars, pretty clothes or a fancy house with all the trimmings could make them feel satisfied with life.

However, researchers have found that giving to charity, buying things for others and investing in experiences like vacations or performances makes people happier than any of these trinkets, according to an article in the Boston Globe's Ideas section.

Even giving a small amount, such as $5, could make a significant impact in a person's outlook, the researchers said. 

Another point: investing in vacations and dinners with friends leads to fonder memories down the road, perhaps because these indulgences let us enjoy time with others and because recollections of any unpleasant aspects of a trip --- missed flights, etc. --- seem to fade with time.

On the flip side, the Globe article also discussed how being focused on money can also less likely to invest in activities with other people.

These findings leave me with a lot of questions ... 

Continue reading "Frugal dilemmas: happiness that money can buy" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 9:27 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Food, Shopping
        

Sears and Kmart today announced the introduction of a Christmas Club card that the retailers claim will help shoppers save for holiday shopping. Shoppers can put aside money on the card from now until Nov. 14. They can earn rewards of up to $100 on the car based on how much they save.

The announcement comes as retailers are bracing for a slow Christmas season and consumers are depending less on credit cards. The retailers have also been touting their layaway program.

Susan Ehrlich, president of financial services for Sears Holding said in a press release: “We heard our customers were concerned about how they are going to pay for their holiday shopping this year and we wanted to provide a way to ease their concern.”

But the card is also good for Sears and Kmart sales. It guarantees people who sign up for the card will have to shop their stores when the holiday season hits.

I’m all for the notion of saving. Too many people are probably still paying for their holiday purchases from last year. But consumers can save on their own too. Open a savings account you don’t have easy access to. Or put 50 bucks a week aside in your drawer if that’s what makes you save.

The rewards Sears and Kmart are offering are good if that’s the only place you plan to do your shopping. Then you might consider signing up for the card. But I bet there will be pretty good deals at all the retailers given the gloomy holiday shopping season that is expected.

Posted by Andrea Walker at 5:54 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Budgeting, Credit cards, Debt, Holiday shopping, Shopping
        

It’s hard to believe, but the holidays are just a few months away. And if current trends continue, there’s not going to be a lot of spending on gifts this year.

A survey by PriceGrabber.com found that 75.3 percent of consumers are concerned about holiday gift giving this year because of the economy.

The online shopping site has put together a list of tips on how to save $1000 over the next three months, so you’ll have a little more cash for holiday gifts.

Have you started your holiday shopping yet? Let us know some of your savings tips.

1. Pack a lunch. Eating out five days a week at $10 a day costs $50 per week. Preparing a daily meal at home with $3 worth of groceries can yield savings of $35 a week. Potential 3 month savings: $420

2. Downsize the cell phone plan. Cell phone rates vary based on the desired amount of coverage. Downsizing from a $140-per-month plan to a $60-per-month plan could lead to savings of $80 per month. Potential 3 month savings: $240

3. Live without the latte. Drinking the free coffee in the office instead of spending $3 on coffeehouse coffee every work day can save $15 a week and $60 a month. Potential 3 month savings: $180

4. Search online for coupons and discounts. Taking the time to cut $30 worth of coupons online or in the newspaper can add up each month. Potential 3 month savings: $90

5. Join the library. Checking out two books a month instead of buying two books at $15 a piece can help consumers save $30 a month. Potential 3 month savings: $90

Total potential 3 month savings: $1020

(Photo: Doug Kapustiin)

Posted by Andrea Walker at 11:14 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Holiday shopping, Shopping
        

Safeway said today that it is slashing prices on thousands of items in its stores. The reductions will be as much as 25 percent.

The grocery market is more competitive than ever and everyone is looking for ways to drive people into their stores. Wegmans and Giant have also reduced prices. Whole Foods has a newsletter that gives shoppers tips on how to shop its stores frugally.

Safeway will mark its reductions with yellow tags that show the new and old price. On some items, there will be additional savings for people who use their club cards.

(Photo: Kenneth Lam/The Baltimore Sun)

Posted by Andrea Walker at 12:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Food, Shopping
        

I wrote earlier this week about Giant and Safeway now offering electronic coupons.

Well, Superfresh started the service today as well.

If you have one of their club cards you can log onto their website and save coupons to the card. The savings will automatically be deducted at the cash register. Enjoy.

Posted by Andrea Walker at 10:43 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Food, Shopping
        

For the first time in my life I’ve been clipping coupons as I try to become more responsible with my money. But being the disorganized person that I am, I often end up at the store and the coupons are still sitting at home on my kitchen table.

Some area grocers are now giving shoppers like me another way to get coupon savings – electronic coupons. Now you can download certain coupons onto your grocery store value card. That way when you go to pay, the cashier swipes your value card and you get the savings. Convenient.

This doesn’t mean I’m advocating people stop cutting coupons from the newspaper. Electronic coupons are still in the early stages and somewhat limited. For one, not every grocery store offers it. Giant and Safeway do, for instance. Wegmans doesn’t and has no immediate plans to change that. ShopRite is exploring the option. You’re also not going to get the same variety from electronic coupons. But electronic coupons can enhance your coupon cutting.

To get Giant’s coupons you have to sign up for their electronic monthly newsletter, which the grocer will email to you. The newsletter will include monthly coupons you can download. A recent special was three free ears of locally grown corn.

Safeway rolled out electronic coupons to all its stores in June. Safeway partners with shortscuts.com, cell fire and P&G eSaver – all providers of online coupons. Consumers log onto Safeway’s website and connect to the couponLink page. They then browse coupons on the above sites and download them to their value card.

I haven’t tried either service yet, but plan to do so. Have others out there tried electronic coupons? What do you think? Any tips for us newbies? What other advice do you have for using coupons?

Posted by Andrea Walker at 9:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Food, Shopping
        

This economy is no joke. If you're straining financially due to debt caused by medical bills, a job loss or other dilemmas, perhaps you've considered filing for bankruptcy.

Got questions about how it works: what debt would be covered, or how your credit history might be affected?

Send them to Sun personal finance columnist Eileen Ambrose at eileen.ambrose@baltsun.com. She is hosting a live chat at noon Tuesday with Jeff Sirody, a bankruptcy lawyer in Pikesville.

Sirody will be available for the half-hour to answer any questions you have about the process, benefits and drawbacks.

UPDATE: And don't forget, Eileen will take questions on other personal finance topics as well. 

Posted by Liz Kay at 11:25 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)
Categories: Budgeting, Debt, Personal finance
        

Kids used to getting a new wardrobe for school might be finding themselves wearing the same gear from last year instead.

That’s because parents are more cash-strapped then ever and aren’t planning to spend a lot on back-to-school this year, according to a survey released today.

Back to school spending will drop 8.5 to 12 percent, according to the survey by America’s Research Group. More than half of parents are trying to get their kids to wear what they wore last year. And 34 percent of parents said they will spend less than last year. The survey consisted of 1,000 telephone interviews conducted July 6 to 10.

So what are your plans for back-to-school shopping? What will your kids be wearing? Anyone have tips on how to save on back-to-school gear?

Posted by Andrea Walker at 11:28 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Budgeting, Shopping
        

We've discussed before how not only do  people with lower incomes have less money to spend on their needs, but the poor also often have to pay more for basic expenses as well.

Some of the loyal members of The Sun's talk forums spotted this story in the Washington Post, which took a closer look at the premium charged for the most critical services --- food, banking and even laundry --- in poorer neighborhoods.

For example: you pay more for groceries than folks who have cars and the money to afford memberships to warehouse stores or even the shops with the best prices.

The expenditures take on a cyclical nature as well. If you don't have money when you receive a bill ... 

Continue reading "Frugal dilemmas: the poor pay more" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 11:07 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Economy
        

We all know it's cheaper to buy your own food and cook it yourself. But, if you're going to go out, it make sense to get the most value for your money.

That's why we're highlighting dinedowntownBaltimore.org as the Consumer Web Site of the Week. The site, run by the Downtown Partnership, highlights specials that can be found at Baltimore's cafes and restaurants.

For example, on Mondays this month ... 

Continue reading "Baltimore dining deals: Consumer Web Site of the Week" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 9:06 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

We've told you before about businesses refunding or covering payments if you lose a job --- hoping to entice some customers to go ahead and make a purchase even if they're feeling insecure about their job situation. Ford, Hyundai and even menswear retailer Jos A. Bank have tossed out those offers with some caveats. The latest to join has been Virgin Mobile, offering to cover up to three months of payments for people on monthly plans (via Consumerist).

This week, Eileen Ambrose covers some practical tips on places to find financial support after losing a job. And remember, you're not alone --- lots of very successful people, including Harry Truman and Walt Disney,  have all found themselves in financial straits at some point in their careers, according to her column.

Posted by Liz Kay at 11:34 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Budgeting, Wages
        

Eileen's got an excellent column this week with savings tips for recent college graduates, helping them set financial priorities due to poor employment outlook and dismal economic climate.

One important piece of advice when weighing potential jobs: consider positions that might a. help you develop marketable skills that can aid your next employment search and b. benefits. A job that offers lower pay but adds health insurance can be a valuable bonus. 

Also, when talking about health insurance, did you know that in Maryland, uninsured, unmarried dependents up to age 25 ...

Continue reading "Financial advice for the Class of 2009: Consumer Sundays" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 9:07 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, College/Financial aid, Insurance, Student loans, Wages
        

Rite Aid, Barnes & Noble and Naturalizer coupons to use this weekend or beyond!

* Save $5 off $25 purchase with this Rite Aid printable coupon, via Spoofee. Expires April 30. 

* Take 10 percent off one item online or in stores with this Barnes & Noble coupon, through April 12. Thanks to daddyodeals.com.

* Save 30 percent off online with this Naturalizer coupon code from April 9 through April 12, via MrDealFinder.

* And it might be a little late for Easter or Passover crafts, but check out these JoAnn Fabrics coupons for 40 or 50 percent off a single item, courtesy of shoppingguru.com and stock up for next year. Expires April 11 through 15.

Posted by Liz Kay at 2:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Shopping
        

Save some money when buying trees with coupons, just in time for Earth Day on April 22 or National Arbor Day on April 24.

Tim Wheeler over at the Bay & Environment blog highlighted a few great discounts on trees, including a $25 coupon off the purchase of a native tree worth $50 or more from participating nurseries. 

Then I spotted ...

Continue reading "Tree coupons: even more Cheap Trick Thursday" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 2:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Greenies, Home/Real Estate
        

Snap up Tax Day freebies to reward yourself for completing the task by April 15!

We told you Tuesday about free McDonalds McCafe coffee on Tax Day.

But the folks at Walletpop.com have compiled a list of other free April 15 stuff, including:

Continue reading "Tax Day freebies: more Cheap Trick Thursday" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 10:56 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Shopping, Taxes
        

Put your haggling skills to work in these three situations and you might get what you need for a lot less.

What's the key to negotiating? Be nice, respectful and realistic, said one business owner in a Marketplace Money story about bargaining in retail stores:

She says start by asking if there's any flexibility on the price. And don't forget to smile and maintain eye contact as you wheel and deal.

But where is it wise to negotiate a price? Americans are accustomed to haggling when it's clear there's a commission involved, such as on a new car or furniture. But what about ...

Continue reading "Negotiate in 3 unexpected places: Cheap Trick Thursday" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 7:41 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Banks, Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Healthcare, Personal finance, Shopping
        

Try this Sports Authority coupon for $25 off a purchase of $100 or more, valid through April 4, whether you're stocking up for spring or summer sports or just need a new pair of sneakers or workout gear. Read the fine print to find a code valid for online purchases as well.

 Thanks to twitter user willyredeemed for sharing the tip.

Posted by Liz Kay at 4:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Shopping
        

Be sure to check out Recession Tales, The Sun's look at how people are cutting back during these tough economic times. They'll be archived on the Riding Out the Recession page (just scroll down).

Take a look at the story by Patrick Gutierrez about golfers who are saving cash but still hitting the links and Bill Ordine's story about families cutting costs of athletic gear.

I'd missed this story ... 

Continue reading "Recession tales: more Cheap Trick Thursday" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 12:23 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Shopping
        

Don't get taken to the cleaners by your trips to the cleaners, whether you're just dusting off your interview suit or packing away your winter sweaters and coats.

The easiest way to cut dry cleaning costs, of course, is to limit purchases of clothes that require it. Other items, such as cotton or cashmere sweaters, could be hand-washed carefully and rolled in a dry towel to squeeze out excess water, according to Consumer Reports' laundry guide.

But what about the stuff that's already in your closet?

Continue reading "Cheap Trick Thursday: cut dry cleaning costs" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 5:33 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal
        

Ford Motor Co. has joined the list of companies trying to encourage spending by covering car payments if you lose your job, the Associated Press reports. And General Motors may soon offer a similar deal.

According to the AP story, Ford will cover payments of up to $700 each month for up to a year on new Fords, Lincolns or Mercurys after a job loss, through June 1.

In January, Hyundai started a program allowed drivers to return vehicles within a year if they could no longer make payments due to job loss or disability, the AP story states.  The "Assurance Plus" program now will cover your payments for three months, according to the Web site, and after that you can still bring the car back.

Then JetBlue got on the bandwagon, making its own announcement last month.

Continue reading "Businesses cover, refund your payments if you lose your job" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 12:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Budgeting, Cars, Economy, Energy/Utilities
        

Make your Making Work Pay tax credit work for you, recommends Eileen Ambrose in her Sunday column.

Sure, it's not a ton of money --- $15 per week --- but our smart colleague Dave Zeiler at Apple a Day plans to sock away that extra cash by increasing his 401(k) contribution.

Eileen offers some great ideas ...

Continue reading "Consumer Sundays: Making Work Pay tax credit " »

Posted by Liz Kay at 2:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Taxes
        

We've told you about Spa Week before --- when participating spas and salons discount certain services to $50.

If you've been denying yourself, Spa Week might be the time to indulge in a more affordably priced massage, facial or pedicure from April 13 to 19.

Then again ...

Continue reading "Cheap Trick Thursday: Spa Week, April 13-19" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 7:38 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal
        

Double-coupon savings at Kmart through Saturday, March 28! Check the Kmart Web site to ensure your local store circular includes the special.

Save twice as much as you would redeeming coupons at other stores by doubling them up to and including $2. Thanks to Money Saving Madness for the heads up.

Posted by Liz Kay at 1:24 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Food, Shopping
        

Financial aid departments are inundated with requests for additional assistance from families reeling from problems in the woeful economy, Eileen Ambrose writes.

The tragic stories about lost jobs, foreclosed home and other financial issues just keep coming in, according to staff at the University of Maryland, Towson University and others. 

How do you ensure that your questions --- and requests for additional aid --- will be honored? 

Continue reading "Financial aid woes: Consumer Sundays" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 11:20 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, College/Financial aid, Personal finance
        

The Sun's Taste section this week suggested many good ways to use up excess ingredients in your kitchen or pantry before they go to waste --- ideas for things as universal as bananas and stuff that you might have bought for just a recipe or two, such as coconut milk or capers.

Of course, the best method to avoid waste is to plan your meals so you don't have ingredients lying around without a plan for them ... but bunches of cilantro only come in one size, whether your recipe calls for 1 tablespoon or 1/2 cup of tightly packed leaves.

Another option ...

Continue reading "Cheap Trick Thursday: eliminate food waste:" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 10:56 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

Meet Jim Wang. You've read the Columbia resident's comments here at Consuming Interests, and we've certainly cited Jim's blog bargaineering.com along with his peers in the personal finance blogging world, including J.D. Roth from Get Rich Slowly and Trent from The Simple Dollar.

Read Eileen Ambrose's Sunday column to find out how these personal finance bloggers shared their experiences getting themselves out of the red... and have earned some green in the process.

As for Watchdog ...

Continue reading "Consumer Sundays: Moneybloggers and storm inlet grates" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 6:19 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Budgeting, Personal finance, Watchdog
        

Snap up this free trial for Sam's Club, one day only, courtesy of Allstate, discovered via A Steal of a Deal. Register to receive the e-mailed coupon, which expires March 31.

But don't go crazy: we've told you before to watch what you spend at warehouse stores --- avoid the impulse buys!

Here are Consumer Reports' tips on warehouse store shopping.

Posted by Liz Kay at 12:55 PM | Permalink | Comments (6)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Food, Shopping
        

Baltimoresun.com now has a way to compare grocery store sales online. The Grocery Guide allows you to browse and compare supermarket circulars from around the region and create a personalized grocery list.

It's an option to start your meal-planning and coupon-stacking. You can click the "details" button to get a price history for the product.

Two things you should know: 

Continue reading "Compare supermarket circulars online" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 7:28 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Food, Shopping
        

Some people may have seem to have the frugal gene, and don't need to nurture these instincts, according to Eileen Ambrose's column Sunday. But others can also learn to develop the habits of savers, her experts say.

Savers wouldn't waste money on bottled water or credit card fees but they also invest wisely, according to the column.

Sometimes outside forces can encourage saving, such as the grim economic news these days, which correlates with the personal saving rate increasing by 5 percent, Eileen said.

You know what else also helps?

Continue reading "Consumer Sundays: developing frugal habits and reserved handicapped spaces" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 7:55 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Watchdog
        

Excellent Eileen tackles an intriguing topic on Sunday: why some people are savers despite modest incomes, while others can't save a penny even on healthy salaries.

I'm not sure whether nature or nurture has a bigger impact on developing a frugal philosophy. However, you often hear stories about how living through the Great Depression, when people had to quit high school because they couldn't afford the socks (check out episode 3). It made people appreciate what they had and taught them not to waste anything. They fixed broken things and reused everything before recycling was trendy.

Anyone believe the current economic climate will help people form frugal habits they will practice for a lifetime? Check out what Eileen thinks on Sunday.

And as for Watchdog, we see how long it takes for someone trying to be a good neighbor to succeed in his quest to remove a handicapped parking space that his family no longer needs.

This week we're ending on a public service announcement:

Continue reading "Consumer Sundays: how do people develop frugal habits, and reserved handicapped spaces" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 4:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Personal finance, Shopping, Watchdog
        

So many people are struggling with utility bills, and have been for so long, that 84,000 Marylanders are at risk of having their electric and gas services cut off once winter restrictions are lifted on April 1, Laura Smitherman reports.

April 1 is the key date, because ...

Utilities can halt service when a customer's balance exceeds $200 for electricity or natural gas, or $300 for both; and when the total due is greater than the deposit. Rules are more lenient for low-income customers who apply for aid, the elderly and those on life support.

State regulations impose further restrictions on utilities during cold weather months for safety reasons. From Nov. 1 to April 1, service terminations are limited when the weather forecast does not exceed 32 degrees for 24 hours. Utilities also must file affidavits confirming that they made personal contact with customers before shutting them off and explaining the reason for doing so.

Now, a number of factors are affecting our bills this winter, including the colder temperatures. While everyone's situation is different, here are a couple of ideas to try to minimize your bills while staying warm:

Continue reading "84,000 people could have their electricity shut off" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 8:16 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Energy/Utilities, Gas prices, Home/Real Estate
        

Brent returns to admit he stumbled more than once this weekend on his No-Buy Month spending challenge ... and literally paid the price. --- lfk.

I've been slacking this week in my posts, in part, because I've been sick the past few days. I'm back at work and am vowing to finish strong. Only three more days left in my No-Buy month. From now on, I'll update daily, including one that will detail where I go from here.

A quick recap: I did go out Friday night and buy a drink. I limited myself to just one but received two drinks since it was Happy Hour (a great deal).

On Saturday I drove to Gettysburg and did the free auto tour of the Civil War battlefield, then played 80s Trivial Pursuit Saturday night with a few friends. All fun and free.

I did end up spending money Sunday though. An unexpected expense occurred.

Continue reading "No-Buy Month Spending Challenge Day 25: a stumble" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 4:09 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal
        

With just over a week to go to his No-Buy Month spending challenge, Brent doesn't think he can avoid socially mandated spending. --- lfk.

A tempting weekend awaits.

I'm going out tonight for a former co-worker's going-away party in Mount Vernon. She's a friend, so I have to go. Good news is, no cover and 2-for-1 drinks. I figure I'll treat myself to one. It's appropriate, I think.

I know technically this is going against the No-Buy, but I also don't believe I can sit in an establishment for hours and not purchase anything. Bar and restaurant owners tend to frown upon that. Of course, I can always count on the generosity of one of my other co-workers to buy me a drink.

Either way ...

Continue reading "No-Buy Month Spending Challenge Day 20: temptation" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 2:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal
        

Only 10 days left of my No Buy month. And I'm thinking about what's next.

Maybe I'll adopt a full-time frugal lifestyle. Doesn't seem as though I'd be the only one. With the economy in the tank, there are plenty of opportunities for low-cost spenders to have a good time, including a show Friday at the Hippodrome sponsored by Jack Daniel's (for all you drinkers out there). The skinny on this is at the end of the post. 

On the other end of the spectrum -- The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) "For Your Marriage" Web site offers ten suggestions for cheap, romantic dates, from planning an indoor "picnic" to "midnight bowling." I'm not sure the bishops are experts on how to get women, but still.

As for me, the first thing I'm going to cut back ...

Continue reading "No-Buy Month Spending Challenge Day 18: self-examination" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 4:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Shopping
        

As the No-Buy Month progresses, Brent learns to make the most of purchases of goods and services he's already made. Unfortunately, those amusements fade quickly. --- lfk. 

I've focused primarily on food but as you all know, my No-Buy covers entertainment and shopping as well.

Occupying my time when I'm away from work without spending money is equally daunting. If I had a wife and kids, my time would be filled rather easily. But since I have no such responsibilities at night, I have to make my own fun.

This past weekend ...

Continue reading "No-Buy Month Spending Challenge Day 10: boredom" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 4:58 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Shopping
        

Could you buy nothing during February? Reporter Brent Jones has already survived five days without spending a dime outside of a few areas. He'll be telling us all month about his experiences. --- lfk.

My inner being is one of a cheapskate, although my bank account has not reflected that in the past few years.

I've spent freely -- not out of control -- but certainly with little regard when it comes to food, beverages and other forms of entertainment. I'm giving those luxuries up this month, pledging a No-Buy Month vow at the behest of a good friend of mine who is publicly undertaking the same endeavor.

The rules are simple enough. Obviously I'll spend money to pay my bills (rent, electric, cable, etc) and to buy food from the grocery store, but I won't go out to eat and I'll avoid buying drinks during happy hours (or I'll depend on some generous soul to purchase one for me if I go out).

Not shopping for clothes or shoes will be easy since I don't do that much anyway. And I'm not cutting out my $20 bi-monthly haircut, which should fall under the category of personal grooming.

I began this on Sunday, the first day of the month ...

Continue reading "No-Buy Month: the 28-day spending challenge" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 7:46 AM | Permalink | Comments (7)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal
        

Sorry folks: somehow this didn't post yesterday as I planned. Enjoy this morning!

We usually like to post Consumer Web Site of the Week a little earlier, but it's been a busy news day. So, here's a late afternoon toy to fool with that's only slightly less depressing than checking out your retirement investment losses.

Yesterday the New York Times posted a "comeback calculator" that allows you to figure out how long it will take for your retirement accounts return to their pre-recession levels. It will also tell you how much you'll have in retirement, but any run-of-the-mill calculator can do that!

Just plug in your previous balance, your current balance and your annual contributions, and let the calculator do the rest. Adjust the rate of return for optimistic outlooks and drearier ones.

Yes, we'll be working for a long, long time. 

Posted by Liz Kay at 4:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Budgeting, Investments, Retirement
        

Consumer updates for your mid-afternoon perusing:

1. It's official: Circuit City is liquidating stock at its remaining stores. But are liquidation sales a good deal? Not necessarily, according to this Chicago Tribune columnist. Be sure to comparison shop and confirm you're getting the best price.

And beware, because you won't be able to return products to a defunct retailer.

2. Christian Bernard Jewelers, which has several Montgomery County locations, has declared bankruptcy. The CT Watchdog at the Hartford Courant posted pun-laden quotes from the Connecticut Attorney General warning about Christian Bernard Jewelers.

3. Did you sign up for the cosmetics settlement? I did, and got an e-mail last week instructing me which free cosmetic products I can pick up ... on Jan. 20, which happens to be Inauguration Day. For people in this area who will be navigating presidential traffic, good luck picking yours up. Folks elsewhere, enjoy your Clarins Beauty Flash Bomb (I think they meant Clarins Beauty Flash *Balm*).

4. Sorry about the free coffee tease earlier this week, but here's a better offer for U.S. residents. Get a free Krispy Kreme doughnut on Inauguration Day.

(photo: Lloyd Fox/Baltimore Sun)

Posted by Liz Kay at 1:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Shopping
        

Folks, it's no secret that there are hard economic times ahead, but The Sun wants to help.

Every day we'll be sharing news and advice about dealing with the downturn at baltimoresun.com/livingforless --- tips on how to save your cash and where to stash it once you've gotten it.

You know we here at Consuming Interests always share cheap tips when they come our way, but we're always looking for suggestions, so please e-mail us with ideas.

Posted by Liz Kay at 6:36 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Economy
        

If your child's 529 plan investments took a nosedive last year, you'll have an additional chance to consider switching things up a bit, Excellent Eileen told us Sunday.

Usually you can make changes only once a year to a 529 plan, but this year investors will have two opportunities. Eileen warns, however, that just because you can, doesn't mean you should.

You might "lock in your losses" if you switch to less volatile, more conservative options and the market bounces back, she points out.

Whether you should make changes will depend largely on your child's age.

If you have a younger child, you have the time to ride the ups and downs of a fairly aggressive stock portfolio. And stocks still manage to provide the best returns over the long haul.

The difficult choice will be for families whose children are a year or two from college. Do you stay put with your investments, or not?

Continue reading "Consumer Sundays: a 2nd chance to change 529 plan investments and testing Comcast customer service" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 8:09 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Budgeting, Cable/Satellite/TV/Comcast/FiOS, College/Financial aid, Investments, Warranties
        

The last year has been tough on many people. Many people work in industries increasingly shaken by the recession, and even if you aren't, you've been squeezed by higher prices for essentials such as food and fuel.

That's why ING Direct's wethesavers.com site, with its Declaration of Financial Independence, was so intriguing. Click the link to "sign" the statement along with more than 500 other Marylanders.

The ideas are simple, such as spend less than you earn; protect your credit by paying bills on time and borrowing only when necessary; invest for the long term and in what is important; avoid waste and consumption and advocate for consumer rights.

However, some of these statements would be difficult to execute if you're already in dire straits, financially speaking. But you've got to start somewhere.

What would you include in your own financial guidelines, a framework to use when making decisions about allocating money, time, effort and energy? 

(photo: Nanine Hartzenbusch/Baltimore Sun)

Posted by Liz Kay at 10:47 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal
        

Eileen's Sunday column highlights some of the financial lessons we've learned (or been forced to learn) in 2008.

The events of the year really reinforces why financial gurus advise maintaining an emergency fund for unexpected expenses, investing only long-term money in the stock market (nothing you'd need within five years) and to expect risk in all investments --- even real estate.

Some of these concepts might not have been as clear during the boom years, but 2008 definitely put things in perspective.

There are still some questions that remain unanswered in this week's Watchdog, however ...

Continue reading "Consumer Sundays: 2008's financial lessons and lights out at the Harbor Promenade" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 8:10 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Budgeting, Credit cards, Retirement, Watchdog
        

For this Consumer Web Site of the Week, we want to know: how are you going to stick to your financial New Year's Resolutions this year?

Sometimes it's good to tell other people about your goals, so that they can help keep you honest by asking about them --- or helping you avoid temptation.

For example, if you want to spend less money eating out, your friends might help you by suggesting other activities than meeting for dinner.

Or you might consider a wider audience: some people start personal finance blogs to post their progress toward reducing debt, saving for something important or just changing their personal habits.

If you're too shy to tell your compatriots how much you owe, you could blog or participate in an online community anonymously or with a handle and get some support from strangers. One option is NetWorthIQ, where you can see where you stand and publicly --- but anonymously --- post your net worth.

You could also ...

Continue reading "CWSotW: help to keep your financial New Year's resolutions" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 7:06 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Banks, Budgeting, Consumer Web Site of the Week
        

This year the day after Christmas in 2008 mirrors Black Friday in two ways:

a. Dec. 26 falls on a Friday

b. some stores are offering "doorbuster" specials.

JC Penney will open at 5:30 a.m., for example. Sign up for a JC Penney wake-up call, if you're that kind of shopper, and take advantage of more than 100 specials.

Walmart will be open at 6 a.m. and Target opens from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. at Mondawmin and Towson (call to confirm the hours of your closest Target location).

Crate and Barrel also sent out a circular advertising Dec. 26 sales, according to SlickDeals.

And just like Black Friday, online retailers are trying to clear out their warehouses, particularly seasonal merchandise. Check out ...

Continue reading "Take advantage of after-Christmas sales, discounts and deals in stores and online" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 10:57 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Budgeting, Consumer Web Site of the Week, Holiday shopping, Shopping
        

These days consumers have a lot more options than just paper and plastic when it comes to paying for online purchases.

We told you in yesterday's Sun that services such as eBillme, Bill Me Later, Billeo and PayPal let customers make online payments without using a credit card. Bill Me Later asks for your name and birthday and the last four digits of your Social Security number. Billeo saves your bank account information in a toolbar.

Just FYI: Consumer Reports points out ...

Continue reading "Alternate forms of payment catching on online" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 4:09 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Budgeting, Credit cards, Holiday shopping, Shopping
        

Well, I hope Eileen's column reassured you about what benefits bankrupt or belly-up businesses must pay --- traditional pensions are protected, as are 401(k) plans.

However, there is plenty that isn't guaranteed, like health insurance, and life insurance. So it's worth it to factor that potential uncertainty into your financial plan --- and your emergency fund.

This week's Watchdog sought out the reason why northbound Aisquith Street between Baltimore and Fayette streets has been closed for months. 

It turns out ... 

Continue reading "Consumer Sundays: benefits from bankrupt businesses and details about detours" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 6:01 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Budgeting, Healthcare, Retirement, Watchdog
        

So, hypothetically speaking, you work for a business that has recently declared bankruptcy or otherwise goes kaput.

Unfortunately, given the downward trajectory of our markets lately, this is a reality that affects more and more people every day.

Read Eileen's column Sunday to learn the fate of your 401 (k), pension and other accounts that are tied up with the company's messy finances.

And over in Watchdog ...

Continue reading "Consumer Sundays: what happens to your 401 (k) and pension if your employer goes bankrupt?" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 4:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Budgeting, Economy, Personal finance, Retirement, Watchdog
        

Avalon had the right idea when he or she posted a comment last week about cleaning storm drains: 

"I clean the drains in front of my own house. I also do it in front of the houses of my neighbors. I don't want my neighborhood looking blighted. I don't expect the city to clean it up and I'd probably die waiting for them to cite my neighbors for not keeping the area cleared."

According to the Baltimore's department of public works, residents are responsible for keeping trash from washing down storm drains. And apparently, as highlighted in this week's Watchdog, trash in Baltimore includes bottles, cans, candy wrappers ... and crime scene tape.

By the way, did you see Eileen's column this week about more rewarding sources of unclaimed cash than the space under your sofa cushions? 

Continue reading "Consumer Sundays: unclaimed cash and clogged storm drains" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 9:02 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Budgeting, Watchdog
        

We've told you before that pennies add up to dollars, and with that mantra in mind you might go out of your way to pick up the coins passed over in less lean times. Have you broken the piggy bank, gone through the couch cushions or re-checked old coat pockets or purses for nickels and dimes?

Then you'd be surprised to hear about thousands of dollars of unclaimed money that Excellent Eileen has written about in her Sunday column. Be sure to check it out.

As for Watchdog, well ...

Continue reading "Consumer Sundays: unclaimed cash and clogged storm drains" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 4:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Budgeting, Odds & Ends, Watchdog
        

Help may be available if you're having trouble paying your energy bills this winter --- even before you've received a turn-off notice.

Apply to the Maryland Energy Assistance Program, which received more than three times the federal money it was allocated during the last fiscal year.

The Office of Home Energy Programs began distributing its $110 million appropriation last month and hopes to reach an additional 10,000 households --- more than 102,000.

However, state Department of Human Resources officials estimate that that's only about a third of the people who are eligible. 

For more information, call 1-800-352-1446. Another resource for help with this and other issues: www.problemsolver.maryland.gov. 

Income eligibility limits below the jump.

(photo: Jed Kirschbaum/Baltimore Sun)

Continue reading "Apply for energy assistance for help paying heat and electric bills" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 4:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Budgeting, Energy/Utilities
        

Awesome Black Friday deals we spotted on various Web sites today:

From eBay: $1 Holiday Door Busters. Beginning today through Dec. 8, 100 must-have gifts, such as digital cameras and GPS devices, and one luxury item, including a brand new Chevrolet Corvette, will be listed each day on eBay.com for $1 fixed price.

From TechChuck: Wal-Mart is about the drop the price on the Magnavox NB500MG9 Blu-ray player to $128 on Black Friday. That's about half the price.

Continue reading "Black Friday Deals Spotted Today on the Web" »

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 3:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Economy, Holiday shopping
        

This will be interesting if it's true. Consumer Reports' latest holiday shopping poll showed that 26 percent of Americans say they will hit the malls on Black Friday -- that's up 5 percentage points from 2007.

It may be a young person's game, though. CR says that the biggest percentage of those planning on fighting the crowds and hunting for big deals are between the ages of 18 and 34.  

That's surprising to us since most of the commenters here are saying they're cutting back this year. Reader Don said:

Don't buy into the hype. Just tell family/friends you're not exchanging gifts so there's no guilt. This holiday shouldn't be about spending your bank account on "stuff".

Reader WillClark4HOF also said:

Shopping? Who can afford to go shopping this holiday season?

So many others have talked about trying to save more this year, making handmade gifts and buying only for the kids to make shopping more manageable. So the idea that more people will hit the malls this year seems out of whack with the chatter we're hearing. But, perhaps, there will be crowds because everyone knows there will likely be really good deals out there.

Continue reading "More Shoppers Will Hit the Mall on Black Friday" »

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 2:50 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)
Categories: Budgeting, Economy, Holiday shopping
        

Megabus.com, the express city-to-city bus service that offers fares for as low as $1 on the Internet, is giving away 100,000 free seats starting today.

If you were thinking about taking a winter getaway, but couldn't afford it, if you were planning a trip and wanted to shave some expenses, if you weren't even thinking of going anywhere, do check this out.

The free seats can be booked on their Web site for travel beginning Wed., Jan. 14, through Wed., March 18, 2009.  Customers must enter the promo code greenbus for the opportunity to receive a free seat.

Continue reading "100,000 free seats on Megabus" »

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 2:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (8)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Gas prices, Travel
        

The other day, we were talking about Starbuck's abysmal earnings report and how it really might be true that consumers are taking seriously that advice about how cutting one cup of coffee from your daily expenses will help you save lots in the long run.

Reader Don said he's been limiting the number of nights he goes out every week. Vegas Charlie said he and his friends are hanging around at home more. And the wonderful aeb says that packing lunches, bringing coffee from home has done wonders for the budget, although reining in shopping hasn't been quite so easy.

Continue reading "In tough economy, what goes first? Eating out or Pay TV?" »

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 2:50 PM | Permalink | Comments (11)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Debt, Economy, Personal finance
        

Holy Smokes. Did you see the news on Starbucks? I figured they were hurting, but their earnings report yesterday surprised me. The AP reported that:

Fewer U.S. customers and venti-sized costs for closing poorly performing stores led to lower sales and profit in the fourth quarter at Starbucks Corp., the company said yesterday. Seattle-based Starbucks said profit fell 97 percent to $5.4 million, or a penny a share, from $158.5 million, or 21 cents per share, a year earlier. The coffee retailer earned 10 cents per share when the costs from closing about 600 stores in the U.S. and 61 locations in Australia are excluded. Analysts expected profit of 13 cents per share, according to a poll by Thomson Reuters. Starbucks began shutting the U.S. and Australian stores this summer as part of a campaign to reverse falling profits

Continue reading "Starbucks 4Q Profit Drops 97 Percent" »

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 3:41 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)
Categories: Budgeting, Economy, Food
        

How many of you are still trying to pay off what you spent last holiday season? Consumer Reports says 12 million Americans are still carrying debt from last year, which is causing 76 percent of consumers to say they're cutting back spending this year on gifts, travel, entertaining, decorations, charitable giving, holiday cards, and tipping, according to a new Holiday Shopping Poll.

Among the poll results? About 59 percent said they will be giving fewer gifts, and nearly half (49 percent) will be cutting their travel plans.

Most consumers (84 percent) said they were willing to sacrifice buying gifts for themselves this year. But Fido will still make it out OK. Only 23 percent of respondents plan to cut back on gifts for their pets this season — far fewer than those willing to cut back on buying for friends and families (40 percent), service providers (30 percent) or co-workers (29 percent).

Continue reading "Shoppers Will Cut Back Holiday Spending This Year" »

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 10:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Budgeting, Debt, Economy, Holiday shopping, Shopping
        

We all know electricity prices are already putting a big dent in our pockets. We know that natural gas prices will rise by 10 to 30 percent this winter. Factor in a bad economy and that could cause many people to decide between heating their home or buying food, medicine or what have you.

Well, if you think you might get squeezed this winter, avail yourself of some assistance that might be available to you out there.

Today, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., BGE is holding an Energy Assistance Expo at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in Edgewater to assist qualifying customers to apply for grants through the Office of Home Energy Programs. Click the jump for details.

Continue reading "BGE Hosts Energy Assistance Expo In Anne Arundel County" »

Posted by Dan Thanh Dang at 6:38 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Budgeting, Energy/Utilities