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With the economy tightening up a bit, your budget may be getting tight. That’s not to say that you can’t save money in this day and age. Take a look at your daily expenses and see where you can cut back.
Your station in life or how high your income is has little to do with how much you can save. It has to do with the specific strategies you put in place.
How To Save Money On A Low Income
You don’t have to make a lot of money to save your cash. The key is to be frugal and smart with your money.
First of all, you should jot down all your expenses. The reason why it’s important is because you’d be surprised to learn how much you’re actually spending if you just write it out.
1. Create An Emergency Fund
One of the most important ways to save cash is to take your leftover cash and create an emergency fund. It doesn’t have to be a lot of money.
If you’re able to stash away $20 a week or even a month, it will add up in one year.
Here’s how to save $300 really fast.
2. Reduce Your Cell Phone Data Plan
Let’s face it, you’ve got Wi-Fi at home as well as in the office. In fact, the average cell phone user only uses 1.6 gigabytes a month, by some estimates.So you likely could cut your phone’s data plan to bare bones without much impact.If you’re paying for gobs of data with AT&T or Verizon, you monthly bill is likely $75-$100.Why not check out one of those pre-paid economy plans that give you unlimited data for $45. Two plans that come to mind are Simple Mobile (runs on T-Mobile’s network) and Straight Talk. See more on saving on phone costs.3. Eat What’s In Your Fridge
Most U.S. consumers spend $10 a day on food, which is generous for three meals a day — but what if you could cut that in half?Designate two days a week that you will eat leftovers either for lunch or dinner.Instead of paying $50 a day for food, save $25 of that amount.4. Cancel Old Subscriptions
Sometimes your subscriptions get stale, meaning you don’t use them anymore or as much. That’s why you should do a subscription audit and cancel old ones.
Many people today have a combination of streaming services, which may equal or exceed what they were paying for cable TV.5. Use Digital Or Print Coupons
The next time you see the crazy coupon lady on aisle 7, ask if she’ll teach you a thing or two. Coupons are the easiest way to save money at the grocery store.
You can clip coupons from sales flyers in the store or go online; either way you save money.
Here’s how to save with coupons.
6. Buy In Bulk
Believe it or not if you buy in bulk, you’ll get a better price than if you bought food wrapped individually.
That means places like Sam’s and Costco will get your grocery dollars, but it’ll be worth it.
7. Be Flexible With Your Travel Dates
When it comes to saving money on travel, knowing when and the best time to book your trip is half the battle.
Travel experts say that if you book a flight between 21 and 30 days out, you should be able to get a deal.
But no matter what, it pays to be flexible with your travel dates. Use Google Flights to find wiggle room in the days you plan to travel. You’ll be thankful for the money you save.
8. Fly On A Budget Airline
If you really want to just get there, avoid the United and Deltas of the world by flying on a budget airline. You can save up to 60% on your airfare by choosing low-cost airlines that fly in smaller or regional airports.
Don’t know of any budget airlines? Check out WhichBudget.com to research some carriers.
Here are some of the best budget airlines:
9. Open A Savings Account
One of the most formal ways to put money away is to open a savings account. What’s so attractive about opening a savings account is that you can really gain some ground if your APR is low.
To open a savings account, visit your local bank or credit union.
10 Set A Savings Goal
It would be foolish to think about saving money without a goal in mind. Look at your income and decide how much money you can save each week and each month.If you find that your savings goal is too ambitious, adjust it downward. If you find that it’s too easy, raise it a bit.11. Don’t Spend Extra Money
If you’ve gotten a bonus at work, income tax refund or stimulus money, don’t spend it. Put that money away for a rainy day. If you have to put it in the bank or under the mattress, do that.12. Open A 401(K)
If you can open a 401(K) retirement plan with your employer, please do so. The money is tax-free and can be matched by your employer up to a percentage.
If you’ve worked at a job that matches your 401(K) for years, you can earn a pretty penny.
Here’s what to know about a 401(k).
13. Pay Off Your Credit Cards In Full
If you happen to swipe your credit cards often, that’s OK. The key is to pay off your credit cards at the end of every month.
Not only does paying off your credit cards build your credit, but it means you pay zero interest and can save that money.
14. Designate A ‘No Spend’ Day
Sometimes you have to spend money, but you may find that some days you can go without using your wallet. These “no spend” days can really allow you to save money if they’re done on a regular basis.
15. Turn Off Your AC Or Heat
If the weather is nice, you may be able to turn off your air conditioner or heat. This practice to keep the money you make in your own pocket instead of giving it to the energy company.
Last Words
Saving money may seem like a lot of small steps, but it really is about adopting a lifestyle. Some of the things you can do to pull back your expenses will change your habits for good.
Not only will this help your finances, but it can lead to some real healthy lifestyle changes that benefit you.
If saving money is something you’re serious about, AtlantaFi.com has a lot of resources to help you.Read more: -
Adidas. Nike. Under Amour. Those are some of the most prestigious brands in athletics. And who doesn’t appreciate some new fits?
We’re going to show you some great athleticwear that you can sport when you exercise.
Cool Athletic Wear For Your Workout
Athletic gear has come a long way. We’re way past the point of wearing some baggy gray warmups and Converse tennis shoes. These days, athletic clothes are form-fitting and protect against the sun, perspiration and more.
The Best Nike Shoes For Women
Nike Free Rn MTN Fk 2018 Iwd Womens Shoes Size
QAUPPE Womens Fashion Lightweight Air Sports Walking Sneakers
Nike Womens Dunk High WMNS DD1869 102 Football Grey – Size
The Best Nike Self-Lacing Shoes For Men
Nike Mens Adapt BB AO2582 001 Basketball – Self-Lacing – Size 10
Nike Mens Adapt BB AO2582 001 Basketball – Self-Lacing – Size 11.5
Nike Adapt BB AO2582 001 Basketball – Self-Lacing – Size 14
What To Wear To The Gym
Everyone from time to time wants to focus on fitness, but in order to do so, you need to make sure you’re dressed comfortably.
You’ll want some gear that offer flexibility. Here are some suggestions:
Also, make sure your outfit allows you to move freely. Here are some top Zumba outfits:
Buy A Punching Bag
If you want the convenience of working on your body in your own home, you might want to invest in a punching bag. Here are some good ones from Amazon:
Last Words
No matter what you wear when you work out, make sure it complements your figure. Clothes that are too tight will only distract from your goal: exercise.
When you don’t know what to wear, nothing beats some simple yoga pants and a fitted tank top or T-shirt.
More Articles:
- Best Zumba Classes In Atlanta
- 5 Places To Buy Affordable Shoes
- Where To Buy Beyonce’s Ivy Park Collection
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One of the best-kept secrets to great hair is coconut oil. The benefits of using coconut on your hair are well documented. But who sells coconut oil products specifically designed for your hair?
This article will show you some of the best coconut oil products for your hair and scalp.
What Does Coconut Oil Do For Your Hair?
Coconut oil is made up of a very beneficial ingredient: lauric acid. This acid has moisturizing properties and acts like a salve for your skin, specifically your scalp.
Because coconut oil seeps into your hair follicles relatively quickly, it has become a favorite in the hair industry.
The Benefits Of Coconut Oil
A U.S. government study on the benefits of coconut oil said this: “Previously published results showed that both in vitro and in vivo coconut oil (CNO) treatments prevented combing damage of various hair types.”
Coconut oil can also have the following benefits for your hair:
- Make it long and shiny
- Act as a detangler
- Keep dandruff to a minimum
- Moisturize the hair and scalp
Now let’s go over some great coconut oil on the market:
Lot of 3 Coconut Oil Cream 6 Oz/ea Coconut Oil Moisturizing Cream
Seborrheic Dermatitis Cream with Manuka Honey
NATUREWELL Extra Virgin Coconut Oil Moisturizing Cream
First Aid Beauty Hello FAB Coconut Water Cream
The Body Shop Butter, Coconut
Plantoria Plant Based Organic Coconut Oil With Vitamin E
Final Word
Because coconut oil can lead to breakage on dry hair, it is best to apply it after you’ve wet your hair, typically after a shower or bath.More AtlantaFi.com:- Best Skin Care Products To Try Right Now
- The Best Natural-Looking Red Wigs
- Gabor And More: Best Wig Brands
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It’s not easy to clean up a home. There are so many things that need to be wiped down, disinfected or downright washed. The good news is that with a little effort, you can do it.
This article will provide some house-cleaning tips that you can use to stay focused on getting your residence up to par.
1. Make Your Bed Every Day
You may not think much of making your bed, but it’s the #1 indicator of whether a person is tidy or not. Think about it, if you don’t clean your most private quarters, can you be expected to have neat surroundings outside of that?
Another reason to make up your bed every day is that it gives you a sense of accomplishment regardless of whatever else you do that day.
Also, making up your bed is a great self-esteem builder, even when you live alone.
2. Wipe Down The Ceiling Fan Blades
One of the most overlooked areas of the living room (or any room) is the ceiling fan. The blades typically collect dust after about three months of use.
If you have a home where you leave the front or back door open more often, your ceiling fan may get dusty around five weeks at a time.
Get yourself a microfiber towel and wipe down your ceiling fan blades about every month to keep them clean.
3. Use A Bleach Pen To Clean Grout
The bathroom is oftentimes one of the most dirty areas of the home. Not only does the tub need constant attention, but after a while you’ll notice that your bathroom tiles will stain due to soap scum.
The way to tackle the dirt on your bathroom tiles and especially along the grout lines is to use a bleach pen.
4. Stock Up On Furnace Filters
Your air conditioner may work fine now, but if you don’t regularly change the filters, it won’t forever.
You should change your AC filters every three months for optimum performance, although it won’t kill you if you do it every six months.
To save time and money, why not buy several air filters at one time? Remember, you’ll always need them.
5. Use Baking Soda For Tough Stains
If you find that our name-brand cleaners aren’t doing the job, try baking soda.
Not only is baking soda a key ingredient in many cleaners today, it’s sort of a secret weapon when it comes to getting entrenched stains out of different types of fabrics.
Final Words
The key to having a clean home is to not put off what you can do today for tomorrow. Small tasks can turn into mountains if you continue to delay.
Tackle the smaller tasks first, then graduate to the larger items on your list. If you keep at it, the job will be done in no time.
If you clean better with music, put on some headphones and get lost in tidying up your home.
Atlantafi.com is bringing you the latest on the coronavirus pandemic, which has the state of Georgia and the city of Atlanta under a state of emergency. More definitive advice on health, please visit CDC.gov. Here are some helpful links:
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If you’re looking to go to the club soon, you need an outfit that will showcase your best features. Don’t know what to wear? We’ve got you covered.
The days of dressing all the way up may be over (for men or women), but you should still put a little effort into your outfit. Not only will you stand out, but you’ll feel more confident because you’ll look and feel good.
How To Dress Up (Men’s Style Guide)
This article is going to go over some men’s outfits for the nightlife as well as a day on the town. But before we do, here are some grooming resources you may enjoy:
- Best Barbershops In Atlanta
- Best Barber Chairs For Your At-Home Salon
- 10 Awesome Hair Clippers For A Reliable Shave
If you’re going out on the town in a city like Atlanta or even a smaller place, you’ll need to look your best.
In a big city, the simple reason is that there are people that you’re trying to impress that you don’t even know.
Here are some great outfits you can wear to the club, from stylish pieces to casual threads. No matter if you’re headed to the bar or to a surprise party, here is the men’s guide to dressing for a club.
Cloudstyle Men’s 3-Piece 2 Buttons Slim Fit Formal Suit – $70-$75
Men’s Premium Spring Casual Slim Fit Leisure Suit – $27
COOFANDY Men’s Casual Dress Shirt Button Down Shirts Long-Sleeve Denim Work Shirt – $16-$28
Woolly Clothing Men’s Merino Wool Button Up – Wicking Breathable Anti-Odor – $59
That is the question, isn’t it. An ascot tie is a great way to turn a dull outfit into a sophisticated look with very little effort.The thing with ascots is that a lot of people see the upscale neckbands as overdressing. You’ll have to decide if that’s the statement you’re trying to make.If you’re an ascot kind of guy, I suggest you go for it. Here are some killer ascots from Amazon you might like:Epoint Men’s Fashion Classic Paisley Cravat Silk Ascot Tie Hanky Set, With Gift Box Set – $7
GUSLESON Men’s Cravat Self Tie Paisley Jacquard Woven Floral Luxury Ascot- $9
Buy ItMen’s Cravat Self Tie Paisley Jacquard Woven Luxury Ascot – $11
I know you’ve heard this before, but the first thing a woman notices is your shoes. It’s true.
Shoes tell a woman that the care a man puts into maintaining his farthest extremity shows how he will value what’s closest to him. Great pair of shoes = a careful man who knows the importance of maintenance.
Best Men’s Shoes To Go Out In
Of course, not any kinds of shoes will do. You want to strike a balance between comfort and casual sophistication. Here are some of the best shoes to consider:
Cole Haan Men’s Grand Tour Plain Ox Oxford – $64-$159
Kenneth Cole REACTION Men’s Punchual Slip on – $65-$156
Stacy Adams Men’s Dickinson Cap-Toe Lace-up Oxford – $57-$164
Unlisted by Kenneth Cole Men’s Buzzer Oxford Boot – $29-$107
Final Word
When it comes to men’s style, it really comes down to how you feel. The clothes you need should be an accurate representation of what someone will experience when they interact with you.
The pros for dressing up include the fact that it’s often what our best selves look like. The cons with dressing up include the high prices.
Whatever you buy or however you choose to dress, remember, a smile is the best garment of all.
Shopping for men’s suits? Here is what a sharp-dressed man wears
Looking to shop? Check out the best malls in Atlanta
NO MATTER WHAT YOU DO, take a look at all the top deals on our Retail Page, there are PLENTY of good deals that you don’t want to miss! Subscribe to our #ATLHaps Newsletter HERE and get the deals delivered to your inbox 🙂Along with the wonderful things to eatand do in Atlanta, there are also so awesome places to shop.
In addition to malls, many Atlanta boutiques and consignment shops have daily deals so that you can save money.
Atlanta’s retail scene continues to be a bright spot for the local economy — and that means more sales for everyone!
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com you might like:
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Not going to the hairstylist is a great way to save money, and who doesn’t want to do that? The good thing is that you can do it and it has everything to do with the way you wear your hair.
This is your time to let your natural hair shine by giving it the loving care it needs. Want to know how?
It’s all about showing our gorgeous mane in all its natural beauty. No matter if you have short hair or textured long curls, it’s all good and easy to do.
This article is going to show you some breathtaking natural hairstyles you’ll love to emulate.
Quarantine Hairstyles
Quick & Easy Hairstyles
Why not take in some lessons on how to really make your hair stand out from the crowd. Watch this:
How To Style 4C & 4B Hair
Does the 4C have you not being able to foresee a future for your natural hair? Girl, relax. You got this!
Curly Natural Hairstyles You’ll Love
People think the world of girls with curls, and the rest of us are not mad. Here’s what to do with those locs.
Natural Hairstyles With Edges Laid
Tired of those edges sticking up and out? Let’s do something about them right now.
Final Word
Your hair is one of the most unique expressions of your personality that people immediately see. Make it count. Take care of your hair by adding some treatments that are proven to work.
The Atlanta hair industry is one of the largest in the Southeast, with more than 8 million people getting groomed each month.
But you can do it yourself. All you need are some quality shears and some high-performance clippers to get the job done. Check out our Beauty Page for other ways to get shaped up.
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Metro Atlanta residents who think they may have COVID now have the option to stop by two COVID mega-testing sites.The sites began operations recently and are on located in Cobb and DeKalb counties, in the northeast and southwest ends of suburban Atlanta.Where Are The Mega-COVID Sites In Metro Atlanta?
The Cobb County site is located at Jim Miller Park (Gate 1), 1295 Al Bishop Drive, Marietta, GA 30008.The DeKalb County site is located at 2994 Turner Hill Road, Stonecrest, GA, 30038.What Time Do The COVID Mega-Testing Sites Open & Close?
The hours of operation for both sites are Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. – 6 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. The sites close from 12:30 p.m. – 1 p.m. every day for a lunch break.Do The COVID Mega-Testing Sites Take Walk-UPs?
You can’t just drive up to the testing sites and get tested. You must have an appointment to be tested. To register online and to make an appointment, please log on to patientportal.If you’re wondering how the COVID testing process works, specimen collection is done by medical staff using a nasal swab and individuals will be provided information on how to receive the results of their PCR test.Is COVID Testing Free?
COVID testing is free to all Georgians, however insurance will be billed if it is available. Additional information about the test sites and driving directions can be found at https://viralsolutionsga.com/.Final Word
The testing sites are the results of a partnership between the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) and the DeKalb County Board of Health, Cobb & Douglas Health Department and Viral Solutions.Health officials say the best way to prevent getting infected with COVID-19 is to get vaccinated and get your booster shot.More From AtlantaFi.com Articles: -
If you’re trying to find the COVID-19 booster shot in Atlanta, Georgia, you’ll be glad to know that health officials have partnered with local retailers to make immunizations easier than never in the metro area.This article will show you where you can get the COVID booster shot in Atlanta. The city has plenty of locations that offer the booster shot for free.U.S. health officials have recommended that all Americans already vaccinated from either the Pfizer, Moderna or Johnson & Johnson shot get booster shots. The country’s premier health official, Dr. Anthony Fauci recently said that there’s no need for an omicron-specific booster shot as of yet.Who’s Eligible For A COVID Booster Shot?
For individuals who have received a Pfizer or Moderna COVID vaccine, the following groups are eligible for a booster shot at six months or more after their initial two-dose series:
- 65 years and older
- Age 18+ who live in long-term care settings
- Age 18+ who have underlying medical conditions
- Age 18+ who work or live in high-risk setting
Booster shots are also recommended for people 18 and older who had a Johnson & Johnson vaccine two or more months ago, according to the DPH.
What Places Offer The Booster Shot In Atlanta?
CVS
CVS Health announced that select CVS Pharmacy and MinuteClinic locations will begin offering the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 booster shot to eligible populations.
Schedule your booster shot with CVS.
Walmart
At your local Walmart, COVID-19 booster shots could be available. Call the store location closest to you to make sure. v Go to walmart.com/COVIDvaccine to learn more.
Sam’s Club
Sam’s Club is another place you can go to be the booster shot to fight against COVID. Go to samsclub.com/covid to learn more.
Kroger
Select Kroger locations are also offering the booster shot. You can schedule your booster shot appointment here.
Walgreens
At Walgreens pharmacy, you can make an appointment for a COVID-19 booster shot. It can be scheduled through Walgreens.com/ScheduleVaccine by calling 1-800-Walgreens or by calling a local Walgreens store.
Final Word
Are you trying to become more financially literate? Check out Money Mondays at AtlantaFi.com, where we’ll share strategies to save and make cash.
If saving money is something you’re serious about, AtlantaFi.com has a lot of resources to help you.More From AtlantaFi.com Articles: -
Looking for a wig that will last for a while? Let me introduce you to Outre wigs, which I have been using for a few years. If you’re looking for a wig that is durable, the Outre wig is one of the better brands of hairpieces sold online.
In this article, we’re going to go over what makes Outre wigs so special as well as tell you a little about the company.
Are Outre Wigs Good?
Outre wigs are known for their ability to withstand fair amounts of heat and other effects of the weather. That makes them very valuable for people who are on the go.
The brand specializes in wigs as well as hair weaves, braids, and additions. While Outre wigs are for everyone, they are especially popular among black women.Here’s what one reviewer says about her Outre wig: ” I can’t believe I once paid over $1500 for this same look on my real hair in Beverly Hills! This wig is a little thinner than expected but that’s ok. For $30 it’s a one and done wig and is a nice one to add to my collection. I own several wigs, ranging from $30-1000 and believe me, this is a great one and a steal!”Are Outre Wigs Made Out Of Human Hair?
Outre wigs are typically made out ot 100% human hair. Although their are some synthetic varieties.Let’s look at some of the different styles of Outre wigs available online.
Outre Neesha Soft & Natural Synthetic Swiss Lace Front Wig
Outre Neesha Soft & Natural Synthetic Swiss Lace Front
Outre Melted Hairline Lace Front
Blonde Contour Lace Front
Frontal Effect Hairline
What Is A Human Hair Blend?
Some people who prefer the Outre brand or similar ones, may be confused about what human hair blends are.
Human hair blends are typically a combination of synthetic strands mixed with human hair. The human hair usually is comprised of damaged cuticles that are supplemented by the synthetic strands.Final Word
Outre wigs have a reputation for being luxurious, thus they’re typically worn for big events or special occasions, but you can wear them anywhere.While they are popular, Outre is not the only top brand of wig there is. Here are some other wigs you might like.The Atlanta hair industry is one of the largest in the Southeast, with more than 8 million people getting groomed each month.
But you can do it yourself. All you need are some quality shears and some high-performance clippers to get the job done. Check out our Beauty Page for other ways to get shaped up.
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So you’re about to sign a new lease agreement to rent a place of your own. You’re about to get the keys. All you have to do is sign the lease.
Before you do, there are some very important things you need to know.When Do You Sign The Lease To An Apartment?
You sign the lease to an apartment when you’ve made sure you can afford the place and the terms are favorable to you. Many tenants skip this step and it comes back to bite them.
Please know that when you sign an apartment lease, you’re agreeing to a contract. That means you’ll be legally bound to follow what’s in the lease.
The landlord has done all he or she could to get you to sign up for a new apartment. Perhaps they’ve taken you to the pool area and tried to impress you with the courtyard. Maybe you’ve been treated to the excellent fitness center or community room with a huge bar and billiards table.Before you sign the dotted line, you should remember to make sure you know the following things:1. Know Who You’re Renting From
Landlords will typically do a background check on you before they decide to rent to you. They want to know what type of person you are and more importantly, whether you’re a criminal.For the same reasons, you should do some research on your prospective landlord as well.Go to a website like RateMyLandlord, landlord online or ReviewMyLandlord.com to see what you can find out about your landlord before you sign the dotted line.2. Document The Property’s Condition
Many landlords will not disclose cosmetic damage that is hidden or undetected by the tenant. That’s why you should look for things that could be broken or damaged in the apartment.Once you find something that is already damaged, make sure it’s written down in the lease.This will legally protect you in the future if there is a dispute about the condition of the property.3. Make Sure You Know About All Fees
In addition to your monthly rent, many landlords will tack on other fees and charges not specified in the lease.For example, there may be a service fee to use the trash chute. There also could be a service charge to use the washing machines.Make a list of all the charges associated with your rent. Total it up so you can see how much renting there is actually costing you.Final Word
Getting a new place is not as simple as looking online and asking to sign the lease. Your money, and more importantly, your safety, should be guaranteed beforehand.
