OKMM Oklahoma money matters : your bottom line, 07-08/2012

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July/August 2012
Your Bottom Line
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Back-To-School Savings for All Ages
From kindergarten to college, there are many ways to save money at the start of the school year. Try these tips to ease the pinch.
Prioritize, budget, and shop sales. It seems the summer goes by too quickly, and the new school year sneaks up on us. Planning ahead can help reduce the shock factor our bank accounts experience this time of year.
Start by making a shopping list. Prioritize it by need and include everything from clothes to lunch items. Be sure to inventory what you already have so you won’t waste money on duplicates.
Next, prepare a realistic budget. It’s a good idea to browse prices online, look for coupons and sign-up for email notifications about big sales. Once your budget is set, stick to it!
It may be too late this year, but shopping throughout the year for school supplies and bulk items can help you save money in the long run. If you’re buying clothes for quickly growing kids, buy items during off-season sales in the next size up.
Get thrifty! With a little research, time and creativity, you can find many ways to save on all your back-to-school needs. Start by maximizing your free options and then work your way up the price ladder. Only buy new or non-discount items if you’ve tried all other options.
Textbooks––. Many local libraries carry common college textbooks. Get your books for free by checking them out when classes begin. If borrowing isn’t an option, consider buying used books online, renting books, or downloading digital books on your e-reader or smartphone. Sites like Amazon.com, Half.com, eBay.com, Craigslist.org, and Rehash.com sell used books and offer buyback or sellback programs, too.
Clothes and Supplies. ––New clothes can be particularly expensive. Consider hosting a back-to-school clothes swap with friends or other parents. (Be sure to remind your guests to only bring slightly worn items that are free of stains and holes.)
Vintage looks are in right now, and there’s no better
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