I'm 66, single and content for 19 years and retired. It's getting more difficult to have any money left over after paying bills. That doesn't include having to buy a tire for the car, etc. What are some ways single people are thrifty?
I know the small ways, like don't use paper napkins, plates, etc. But what are some big ways you have found to help you? My house payment is my biggest debt. I was planning on working after I retired but I got covid-19 in the summer of 2020 that has left me with a horrible hard cough that has caused me to have a nerve out of place or something. I have sciatica and can barely walk. No help for the covid long haulers. Just wondering if you all have and thrifty ways for a single woman. Thank you.
Add your voice! Click below to answer. ThriftyFun is powered by your wisdom!
If your mortgage is with a commercial bank, consider moving it to a credit union. They're more likely to work with you, and for lower or no fees.
Here are some other thoughts:
- Cut your cable (check out streaming services)
- Cut your land line (check out a mobile phone discount)
- Inquire about your state's discount prescription program
- Have your property tax frozen or reduced
- Share a car and/or double up on errands to share gas cost
All changes become harder when you're not feeling well. Sending light and love to strengthen you.
You could get a roommate. In some places the town government has a service that matches senior citizens looking for housing and those looking for someone to live in their home. All applicants are carefully screened.
Check with your local senior services center to see if they might have some options to help you. Some churches may provide help, as well. You might also check to see if there are any charity food drives where you live. Another option is to see if there are any sites on Facebook where people are giving away free things.
Several years ago, I worked as a family counselor and I have to say that your question/comments complete about half of the information needed to really help someone make major changes in their living arrangements.
Example:
Your area may have a high cost of living that is not suitable for frugal folks..
1. Do you own or rent?.
2. Do you have a mortgage?
3. Do you need to downsize?
This is only the beginning but without more information, members can only make suggestions that may have no bearing on your lifestyle.
Hope some of the information members have provided will be helpful.
Research. Learn answers to such questions as (for example), cost of landline vs. cell 'phone. Do you really need a cell 'phone when a landline can cost as little as $10 / month (in Western Canada, that is). Simple stretches can help with sciatica pain and mobility ... Google has the answers. If you don't have a computer or online access, check your local library.
Gardening (once you're able to move about with less pain) can help reduce grocery bills. Find a second-hand deep freeze and take advantage of sales on meat and vegetables. Consider more plant-based meals (again, research will help ensure you get adequate nutrition).
I walk whereever possible ... to the grocery store, for instance, and that saves on gas as well as vehicle wear and tear. Again, stretches and simple exercises for that sciatica - as well as walking itself - will enable you to keep walking (speaking from experience).
Canning jars can often be found at garage / yard sales and seasonal produce, canned (by you, now that you're retired), will be welcome treats over the winter months. Find / research recipes that don't call for a lot of sugar when preserving fruit (to keep costs minimal). A water-bath canner will do in most instances (again, research will tell you when you might need a pressure canner).
Does you city have a ride-sharing type of service? bestreferraldriver.com/
How's your arithmatic? Would it be cheaper to get involved with such a service, do all your errands one day / week and not need a car at all?
Do everything you can to stay as healthy as possible: eat your veg, get plenty of exercise, stretch thoroughly every day, drink water galore, learn to relax, make a point of having fun. Healthy mind and healthy body correlate with less illness (save the cost of medicine).
What skills do you have that you might want to turn into a few extra dollars (but only if you really like doing it)? Tutoring or teaching music, clothing alterations or editing papers for university students ...?
Feel free to get in touch (wordswork@telus.net) to chat / exchange ideas?
I save money on TV by having a simple antenna connected to my TV. The cord runs out the corner of the window so the antenna can sit on my porch rail. They are available at places like Best Buy and Walmart or even the 99cent store. That way my TV service is FREE. I only get the channels that are within about 40 miles, but that is plenty for me.
Add your voice! Click below to answer. ThriftyFun is powered by your wisdom!
