Reading, 'Riting, 'Rithmatic Recap

"The bank is the place that will loan you money if you can prove you don't need it." -Bob Hope

I realize I didn't go into much detail with my last post, but the math portion of saving money is the most basic. The most difficult math you need to be able to do is multiplication (by 12 to figure annual cost, by # of years of a loan to figure total cost). Most importantly is the adding and subtracting. If you can do simple math you should never be overdrawing accounts or paying late. Follow these simple steps to educate yourself and save yourself time and money:

1. Read thoroughly every contract you sign and every account you open.

2. Write down every transaction you make with a debit card in your checkbook register.

3. Keep up with your account balances and don't spend money if you don't have it in the bank.

Tip of the day: Create an Excel spreadsheet to keep track of all of your bills monthly. Check it on a regular basis to ensure you do not miss any due dates.