Cut the Fat, Feed the Pig

It’s time to spend smarter. Although the American economy is waking up, numerous statistics from the past few years are showing that Americans are losing control of their finances. Personal debt is piling up at an alarming rate, which proves that it’s time to refocus our spending habits, as both individuals and businesses. Putting this philosophy into action will propel our economy to healthy and stable levels.

Campaigns

According to the American Institute of Public Accountants (AIPA), Americans spent more than they earned in 2009. That hasn’t happened since the Great Depression! As a result, numerous campaigns and organizations are stepping up to remind us that saving money now, will pay off later.

Feed The Pig

The AIPA and Advertising Council are teaming up on a project called Feed the Pig. Along with a radio and TV campaign, the project is backed by a robust digital presence focused on interaction and user involvement. The applications help map out your spending and provide a budget for your household or business. Saving a little will go a long way and this site shows you the results.

Banks Promote Saving

Fifth Third Bank has launched an ad campaign with the slogan, “The Things We Do For Dreams”. A series of commercials focuses on the different ways people of differing backgrounds save money each day. It’s a genius campaign, offering simple, actionable strategies to control personal spending in the spirit of planning you’re your dreams whether that be the purchase of a house, providing for your future family, or leasing a new car.

Energy Star Tax Credits

Even the government is helping us spend smarter. The Energy Star program is perfect for businesses or families looking to save money over a long period of time. By replacing your clunky water-heaters or furnaces, you may qualify for cost cutting federal rebates of up to $1,500. Not only can you receive credits for these appliances, but you’ll save money over time as well due to the efficiencies these new technologies bring. As the Energy Star website points out,

ENERGY STAR distinguishes energy efficient products which, although they may cost more to purchase than standard models, will pay you back in lower energy bills within a reasonable amount of time, without a tax credit.”

You can find plenty of Energy Star appliances at Brunke Geiger Heating and Cooling of Baroda, Michigan. This Lennox Dealer ships all over the Michiana area, as well as nationally.

Time to Act

I know, I know, first I was saying “Save, save, save” and now I’m going on about spending money on appliances. A little contradictory, yes, but the point is, it’s time to think about every purchase we make for business or personal reasons. If we plan ahead and spend smarter, we can improve our future.

Although the experts keep rattling off troubling and disparaging stats, there’s no need to panic. There are plenty of ways to spend smarter and plan a budget.