Money

One of the beautiful things about life is that there are always pleasant surprises waiting to be discovered. Even with the sometimes mundane topic of money, there are many revelations to be had. Here are five such money truths that aren’t necessarily obvious. (See also: 10 Monthly Bills You Can Slash)

Always Trying to Make More Money Is the Wrong Pursuit

The majority of us can name a few reasons why we want more money. Having the freedom to spend more time with our families, providing a comfortable environment for our kids, or having a comfortable retirement are just a few of the real motivations people have to earn more.

Yet, the way most of us try to make more actually undermines what we are trying to achieve because we always pour more hours into our money-making opportunities. Will you spend more time with your family if you work late into every weeknight? Will you be able to provide a comfortable environment for your child if you are always exhausted? If you spend all your time sitting in front of a computer for decades, do you think your health will hold up for a comfortable retirement?

Drawing the fine line between not working enough and working too much is a personal matter, but do take some time to make that decision, because more money doesn’t automatically mean you are going to be better off.

Having Money to Spend Is More Satisfying Than Spending

It’s natural to get used to what you already own, but once you spend that cash, it’s gone forever. On the other hand, knowing that you have the money to spend is very comforting and will provide you with lasting joy. That’s why you should save as much as you can as fast as you can. One day, you will have enough money to quit whenever you want, and that beats owning all those high priced merchandise any day.

The added bonus is that when you save early on and have your money working for you, high-priced merchandise will become pretty affordable too.

The More You Buy, the More You Want to Buy

When our impulses urge us to buy, the seemingly obvious solution is to satisfy that impulse. Yet the more we buy, the more we will want to buy because we end up being subject to the genius marketing efforts of the retail industry when we are out at malls, online stores, and other outlets more often.

This is, of course, a cycle that we can stop if we just start holding out.

Getting Savings When You Shop Doesn’t Mean You Saved Money

Have you ever bought anything you don’t need just because it was on sale? Even finding an online promotion code for 90% off means you wasted 10% if you didn’t need that item in the first place. Retailers play to our emotions often, but we shouldn’t repeatedly let them take advantage of us!

Frugal Living Is Actually the Opposite of Sacrificing

Many of us think of living frugally as some sort of a sacrifice. Yes, it’s true that you are often making a conscious effort to not buy something you thought you really wanted. But sometimes you are actually giving yourself the opportunity to achieve so much more.

A few years ago, I had the opportunity to start my own business. If I was living the high life and had very high monthly expenses, I would never have had the guts to make the leap. And even if I did jump, the pressure of needing to pay for huge expenses right off the bat would probably have adversely affected my business decisions early on.

Fast forward a few years, and I’m making more money than I ever had, which gives me the opportunity to afford luxuries I could only dream possible while I was working the nine to five. Even though I never intend to inflate my lifestyle drastically, the ability to do so is comforting to say the least. And all this because I lived frugally at the beginning. Sacrificing? Hardly.

Not everyone will end up starting their own business, but too many people miss opportunities because they need the income of their current job. You never know when that opportunity will present itself, so it’s better to be prepared .

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One of the casualties of our more informal work world is a surplus of neckties. Visit any thrift store of a respectable size, and you’ll find whole nests of colorful old ties coiled and tangled in bins and snaked through hangers. Exploring them is a history lesson in fashion and in the vagaries of style. They come in paisleys, college stripes, argyles, and checks; in wool, acetate, polyester, and silk; in skinny, wide, and extra wide. They wait to be reclaimed and repurposed. But if you’re not a vintage clothing hound with a penchant for formal wear, what can be done with these cast-offs? Here are ten ideas that can give new life to old ties. (See also: New Ideas for Old Neckties)

1. Napkin Rings

Ties with classic designs can be cut hemmed and stitched into small rings to create unique matched or mismatched napkin rings. Since napkin rings seldom get dirty, choose more expensive tie fabrics like silk or wool.

2. Tab Tops for CafA(c) Curtains

Restaurant owners I know in Portland, Oregon fashioned the tabs of their tab-top cafA(c) curtains from old ties. First, they removed and saved the narrow section of each tie, and then created a loop from it. Next they sewed each loop neatly to the curtain at 4” intervals and embellished each new tab with a vintage button. Since curtains are in direct sunlight and prone to fading, choose more durable necktie fabrics like polyester or acetate.

3. Curtain Tie-Backs

Add a unique accent to your curtains by using thin or medium width ties as curtain tie-backs. Just cut to fit, add a button or piece of Velcro, and voila!

4. Belts

Narrow wool or cotton ties (especially in argyle or plaid) make great belts. Add a D-ring style buckle and pair with dark-wash jeans for a casual look.

5. Quilts and Throws

If you have the skills and are up for an intricate and challenging project, try creating a quilt or throw crafted from neckties. When sewing ties together or using cut pieces of tie fabric, be sure to pay attention to the weft and warp of the material. Each fabric has not only a distinct weight, but a particular weave that affects how it stretches. Choosing fabrics with similar warp and weft characteristics will prevent misshaping or unnecessarily stress on a particular section. For a good tutorial on how make a quilt from old ties, check out eHow’s step-by-step tie quilt overview.

6. Rugs

Apply the same method used in the quilt creation to make a rug from polyester or cotton ties. If you like to knit or crochet, experiment with crafting a rug using ties as the yarn. Just cut the ties to a uniform width and sew the strips end-to-end. Add a non-skid backing or pad for safety.

7. Scarves

Wool or cotton ties staggered and sewn together end-to-end can create a unique and durable scarf. Leave the edges natural or finish with velvet or denim.

8. Table Runners

Use rich paisley patterns in silk to create a distinctive table runner using the same method as the scarf. Finish with tassels or some simple beadwork.

9. Dish Towel Ties

Remember when every kitchen had those little dish towels with the tab that fit through a drawer handle and buttoned in the front? Maybe I’m showing my age, but it seemed like every kitchen in the 1970’s had one hanging at the sink or from the oven handle. It was a great little utilitarian craft project that could be reinvented to include old neckties. Using the widest part of the tie, hem and sew one end to the back of a dish towel or hand towel and attach the pointed end to the front with a button or piece of Velcro. Because these will be used and washed frequently, choose a durable polyester or cotton tie.

10. Custom Pillows

Add a unique and custom look to your accent pillows by centering and sewing a tie vertically and another horizontally to create a “gift wrapped” look. This works especially well with white pillows and deeply patterned bold black ties or denim pillows and vintage plaid ties.

So, the next time you’re thrift shopping or hitting the yard sales, keep an eye out for those old orphaned ties — there’s still a lot of life in them. With a little creativity and craftsmanship, you can turn something that was a pain in the neck to the fellas of yesteryear into something that’s inspired and practical.

Do you have a closet full of old ties? How have you repurposed and recycled them? What ideas have I missed?

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Welcome to Wise Bread’s Best Money Tips Roundup! Today we found some great articles to help you organize your grocery shopping, write a better business letter, and overcome negative emotions.

Top 5 Articles

6 Ways to Stay Organized When Grocery Shopping — Pick a good time to go grocery shopping so you can hit the sales and miss the crowds. [SavvySugar]

How to Write a Business Letter that Gets Results — Be clear about what it is you want the business to do for you. Try to articulate your request in one sentence. [Wealth Pilgrim]

9 Ways to Overcome Negative Emotions — Words have power, and you can use encouraging words to make yourself feel better. [Think Simple Now]

Working Toward Wellness? How to Stay on Track — You don’t have to do it alone! Schedule walks and healthy lunches with a friend. [Parenting Squad]

4 Frugal But Unconventional Dining Spots Most People Overlook — Check out the concession stand at Costco, or simply pick up bite-sized food samples as you shop. [Len Penzo dot com]

Other Essential Reading

Expensive Hobbies and Habits and Their Cost-Saving Alternatives – To get your caffeine fix while you’re out and about, make your coffee at home and carry it in a to-go cup. [Enemy of Debt]

How To Spot And Prevent Medical Identity Theft — Make sure that any medical website you use is secure; the URL should begin with “https.” [Money Q&A]

Cheap Spring Break Ideas — Schedule your vacation during the spring break “shoulder” season. [Cheapism]

5 Money Moves That Will Strengthen Your Marriage — Find a way to pool your resources while still keeping some financial independence. [MoneyNing]

5 Important Lessons about Credit that Most People Learn the Hard Way — As long as you make enough money and you pay on time, banks will keep approving you for more credit. Make sure you don’t get in over your head. [Moolanomy]

News & Events

Be sure to check out our News & Events Calendar to see all the awesome upcoming events in the personal finance world!

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We all know that college can be expensive, but I didn’t realize that just applying to colleges can cost hundreds of dollars. This fall, when my oldest son began to submit his applications, I got schooled on these expenses and picked up some ideas on how to control them. Learn from my mistakes as well as the right decisions I made.

Here are ways to save when applying for college.

College Applications

Developing a list of colleges and universities, comprised of your top choice and a safety school, is a first step. Planning is a key to saving money as last-minute decisions can be costly. Trimming the list to just a few schools will naturally reduce your expenses. (See also: Getting the Most Out of Free College-Planning Resources)

Look for Universal Fee Waivers

Many colleges and universities offer fee waivers during certain time frames. For example, North Carolina students who register with CNFC.org can apply for free to certain private and public universities during “College Application Week.” Likewise, Indiana schools waive fees during the state’s “College GO! Week.” 

Note that these free application dates may be after early action or early decision deadlines, so you may want to forgo no-cost processes to gain early admission to the college of your choice.

Ask for a Fee Waiver

High school students may be able to obtain fee waivers by working with their guidance counselors. You’ll have to meet eligibility requirements and fill out forms, but this approach is a great option for many lower-income families.

Apply to No-Fee Schools

Consider applying to schools with no fees or that waive fees in certain cases. To find colleges and universities associated with the Common App that do not charge a fee (and to see the charges associated with member schools), visit the College Deadlines, Fees, and Requirements section of its website. Pay attention to correspondence from colleges and universities with special offers relating to no application fees.

Some high school counselors are concerned, though, that students will be attracted to schools that aren’t a good fit merely because of the zero cost of applying, according to a New York Times article. Use your judgment in evaluating schools.

Testing Services

One of the biggest expense categories in the application process is testing services (specifically, costs for SATs and AP Courses from College Board, and for the ACT from ACT, Inc.). There are fees for registering for tests, preparing for tests, and sending scores to colleges and universities. Still, there are ways to save money.

Register Sooner Rather Than Later

Between the busyness of my son’s senior year and the uncertainty of his schedule, I didn’t push for early or, well, on-time registration. Kids can sign up at the last minute, but there are hefty late-registration fees.

Because so many high-school students take the SATs and ACTs, many schools and teen organizations (like scout troops and church youth groups) avoid planning activities for these dates or recognize that they may have lower-than-usual participation, so your teens may not miss big events with their friends anyway. It makes sense to commit early to testing dates and register on time.

Use Free or Low-Cost Test Prep Sources

Skip SAT or ACT preparation classes, which may run $400 to $700. Consider these alternatives to save money: 

• Sign up for “question of the day” emails and start getting practice during your sophomore and junior years.
   
• Take the test more than once; though you’ll pay twice, the first session can serve as a real-world warm-up for the subsequent sitting.
   
• Pay for test analysis reports so that you’ll know which areas you need to work on; again, there is a cost but it should be less than course fees.
   
• Consider online courses that are more convenient than in-classroom sessions and generally cost much, much less. 

Honestly, I wanted my son to take these classes, but he didn’t have time in his schedule. Unintentionally, then, I saved money and his test scores were high enough to gain entrance to his top choice.

Take the SAT Subject Tests Immediately After Taking the Classes

Scores should be higher when course material is fresh in a student’s mind. If you have waited too long, consider saving money by skipping these tests. 

It never occurred to me that my son could take these tests in his freshman, sophomore, or junior years. The time lag between taking the courses and taking the tests may have caused my son to turn in scores so average that he opted not to report them.

Specify the Schools That Will Receive Your Test Scores Before You See the Results

If you wait until after the test, then you will have to pay to send scores to designated schools. Plus you may be tempted to pay rush fees. Note that admissions reps say that they’ll typically look at the top scores in each category, no matter how many times you take the standardized tests. So you can save money by specifying schools when you sign up for the test without fear that average performance in just one session will jeopardize your chances of getting accepted.

My son changed his mind about his major and what schools he was considering but didn’t update the recipient schools in the College Board. So, though the first round of SAT scores were sent for free, he had to request submission of scores the second time, costing us extra money.

Consider Alternate Methods of Reporting Your Scores or Aptitude

Some colleges and universities will accept test scores that are reported on your high-school transcript. Avoid paying for score submission from testing agencies if alternate means of reporting scores are acceptable.

Still other schools don’t require standardized test scores. Instead, they measure your potential based on factors such as your academic record, essays, and letters of recommendation. For example, Wake Forest University recently stopped requiring SAT or ACT scores. To find colleges and universities that don’t require standardized scores, see this list from Fair Test.

Request a Fee Waiver

Eligible students may be able to obtain a waiver of testing fees. And, if you get a waiver from College Board or ACT, you may be in a better position to get waivers of college-application fees.

Supplementary Materials

Getting supplementary materials ready for college applications and making sure they arrive on time can cost you. Do application tasks on your own and get things done early to avoid having to fax or send materials via express mail.

Write Your Own ResumA(c)

Use this guide to prepare a high-school resumA(c) instead of paying some to develop the document for you. 

Take Advantage of Free Resources

A great educational counselor can be worth the money, but you can also get many of these services at no cost if you plan ahead and tap the right resources. Do your own research if possible. Even if you hire someone to help, you may be able to save money by performing certain tasks on your own.

Ask Early for Letters of Recommendation

Most schools require at least one letter of recommendation; many require two or three letters. Choose recommenders carefully, and make sure they have plenty of time to craft the letters so that you don’t have to send anything via rush mail to meet deadlines. Or avoid mail service altogether and arrange for electronic submission of letters to colleges and universities.

Senior year can be a very busy time. You (or your teenager) may be overloaded with classes, part-time work and volunteer activities, sports, friends, and more, all while having to fill out applications, write essays, take tests, etc. But planning ahead and anticipating some of these expenses can help you save money.

How did you save money when applying for college? Share in the comments.

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This series is brought to you by TurboTax Federal Free Edition.

These days, scoring a job interview is tough enough, let alone getting the position. With dozens (or sometimes hundreds) of applicants for every job, standing out in the crowd is more important than ever. And you’ll also need a little help from lady luck, too.

But, saying that, I’m a firm believer in creating your own luck. There are always ways you can put the odds in your favor, and in some cases, have potential employers coming to you. Believe it or not, even in the toughest economy, truly valuable employees are still hard to find. Sadly, they often stay invisible by not doing what it takes to put a spotlight on themselves. And it’s pointless being a rock star if you only sing in your basement.

Here then are 12 unique ways you can score a job interview, based on my experiences in advertising and marketing. Try one or try them all, but do not use all 12 on the same employer. Remember, there’s a fine line between being eager and annoying, and you don’t want to be memorable for all the wrong reasons. (See also: How to Answer 23 of the Most Common Interview Questions)

1. Use Social Media to Your Advantage

If you’re not using Twitter, Facebook, or other social media outlets, you’re missing out on a great way to begin conversations with potential employers. These are the ways we all communicate, and they can be very effective in drawing attention to you. Start following the Twitter feeds of people you want to work for. Make insightful comments. Post links to articles you have written or pieces of work you have done. Become vocal in the social media world, and do it consistently. Sooner or later (hopefully sooner), you’ll get the attention of someone who counts, and then when a job is posted, you can jump right in and let your Twitter or Facebook community know you’re looking.

2. Create Your Own Direct Mail Campaign

A lot of people in advertising, design, or marketing use this trick, but there’s no reason it cannot apply to you if you work in another field. A traditional resume emailed to an HR department will not stand out. But why not create something different and unique to your skill set that will help you get noticed? If you’re an accountant, send your resume in a package with chocolate coins. If you’re in the catering business, write out your resume on a cloth napkin, and send it in a napkin ring with your email address on it. There are always ways to stand out while being smart and doing something related to your profession. Creative resumes are not just for creatives. And don’t do a one-off, either. Follow it up with something just as creative.

3. Follow in the Footsteps of Upcoming Bands

When a band is trying to make it big (or just get people to turn up to shows), they don’t have the money for big advertising campaigns. They don’t even have the money for small ones. But they want you to show up in droves, so they get creative. They cover walls with wheat-paste posters, they set up websites with music samples, and do whatever then can to spread the word. You can do the same. If you’re in a creative field, be it advertising, art, design, baking, or anything else with a visual aspect, a website is a great way to get your work out there. Then, find ways to advertise that site as cheaply as possible. Put cards in local stores, especially ones where potential employers might visit. Create a buzz around yourself, and you may just get that all-important phone call.

4. Do a Public Relations Stunt

These stunts are often a great way for ad agencies to stretch the budgets of their clients. Buying media space in a newspaper, in a magazine, or on TV costs a lot of money. But if you can do a stunt that gets coverage, you can get massive exposure on a minimal budget. Think of a way to get yourself noticed that is relevant to your career path. For instance, take your design skills to the street and draw a giant, illustrated chalk resume outside of the building of a future employer. Who wouldn’t notice that? It could even get news coverage. Remember, with the advent of 24-hour news, channels are always looking for stories. Do the easy part for them. Let them know where you’ll be and why you’re doing it. You could even spend some money buying your very own billboard. Of course, that takes a lot of money, but it may just pay off.

5. Ask For a Tour of the Building

Does the place you’d like to work at have a nice building? Is it a manufacturing plant with interesting equipment? Does it have historical significance? Is it well designed, or has it been engineered to be very green? Is it none of the above? It doesn’t really matter. There are always ways to get tours; you just have to find the right angle. In advertising, it’s fairly easy to get a tour because the job itself is very interesting. You can say you admire the set-up and want to see how it’s working so that you can make your own place of work better. And as you tour the building, drop a few hints that you’re looking around. Leave your own flyers and business cards in prominent places. Be brave. And remember, all they can say is no…but they might just say yes.

6. Write an Article About the Prospective Employer

You don’t need to be a big-name journalist to do this. With the Internet, blogs, regional newspapers, and so many other avenues for content, you can easily find a way to write an article and get it published. Even if it’s on a blog you create, it’s still legitimate, and it’s a great way to get your foot in the door of a place you’d like to work at. If the company does something you think people want to know about, then write about it. You may get to interview some senior people, and that could be a great chance to get your foot in the door and blow your own trumpet. And when the article is done (and hopefully positive in nature) send the company a link or a sample with your contact info. 

7. Create Something That Goes Viral

YouTube is wonderful for many reasons, one being that you don’t have to have money or power to become popular. Videos go viral, and when they do, millions of people see them. Now, if you happen to create one that also ties in with something you do for a living, or that targets a potential employer, that’s when you could hit interview gold. A famous example of this is Justin Bieber. As a young boy, he posted a video of himself covering Justin Timberlake’s “Cry Me A River.” We all know what happened to him. People in advertising have done this to score jobs at some of the world’s biggest agencies, including Crispin, Porter & Bogusky. YouTube works. You just need great content. 

8. Improve on Something Your Prospective Employer Does

How does this work? Well, the most recent example is YouTube Instant, developed by Stanford student Feross Aboukhadijeh. After Google Instant launched, he saw the potential in it and developed the site. The CEO of YouTube was so impressed that he gave Feross a job (and Twitter also wanted him). Do you have a major improvement that employers in your field would kill for? Let them know a little about it, or build it yourself if you can.

9. Advertise Yourself Online

The Internet is full of ways to advertise. And it doesn’t take a whole lot of money, either. Sites like Facebook, Google, and LinkedIn all offer ad spaces, and if you’re smart, you can create ads that will get you noticed. How? Well, look at Alec Brownstein, a senior copywriter now working at Young & Rubicam New York. He Googled the names of his favorite creative directors and noticed that there were no sponsored links by their names. So, he purchased their names on Google AdWords. And sure enough, when they Googled themselves (something we all do regularly) Alec’s name popped up with a fun message asking for a job. Alec received multiple interviews and landed a job at his idea agency. The entire cost of his online campaign came to just $6! And he also received two major industry awards for his smart thinking in the self-promotion category.

10. Put Your Resume on Video

Times are changing; resumes can change, too. Why stick to the same old paper format, or something you print out from a website? Why not do something a little different and create a video for your resume? It doesn’t have to be a production with a Star Wars budget. You can do some great things with movie-making software that often comes pre-loaded onto your machine. Think Ken Burns, and apply your own twist. While it’s not applicable to everyone, a video resume sent on a flash drive or DVD may just be the edge you need to stand out and score an interview.

11. Make Employers Apply to You

Something that advertisers do well is turning something completely on its head to get attention. White is black, up is down, and in is out. When it comes to hunting for a job, why not make yourself the target and have employers look for you? Create a flyer that says “Employer wanted, must have clean fingernails and a 401(k) plan,” or design a poster with the same idea. Don’t think it will work? It already has for Andrew Horner, a young programmer who decided to stop looking for jobs and instead got employers to apply to him. His website, Reverse Job Application, garnered very favorable results and led to many reverse applications and a job offer. So, think how you can get the mouse to come to the cat; it’s easier than chasing it around. 

12. Do Some Very Personalized Product Placement

Picture this. You’re someone responsible for the hiring at a company. You go outside to get the newspaper from the driveway, and inside it is a full-page ad from someone looking for a job at your firm. It addresses you by name. Or you’re doing the local shop and see a jar on the shelf with your name on it. Inside, there’s a resume for a job applicant. If you think these are far-fetched ideas, think again. They’ve been tried with great success in the advertising industry, with creatives getting up at the crack of dawn to place an ad inside the newspaper of a creative director, or following the hiring manager around the supermarket and placing a product at eye-level with her name on it. This is very targeted, although some think it smacks a little of a stalker. But, done right, it can be both flattering and impactful. If you will go to those lengths just to get an interview, how far will you go to do a good job for the company? That’s one heck of a first impression.

Being able to get out and see the world is something everyone should budget for. It is important to save up to take trips to places you want to see, but it is also important to travel frugally once you finally hit the road. From airfare to hotel expenses to dining costs, there are always ways you can stretch your travel dollars!

How do you travel frugally? What do you do to reduce hotel costs? How do you save on airfare? What tricks do you use to cut back on dining expenses when you are out of town?

Tell us how you travel frugally and we’ll enter you in a drawing to win a $20 Amazon Gift Card!

Win 1 of 3 $20 Amazon Gift Cards

We’re doing three giveaways — one for random comments, one for random Facebook “Likes”, and another one for random tweets.

Mandatory Entry: 

• Post your answer in the comments below 

For extra entries (1 per action):

• Go to our Facebook page, “Like” us, and leave a comment on this article telling us you did, or
• Tweet your answer. You have to be a follower of our @wisebread account. Include both “@wisebread” and “#WBAsk” in your tweet so we’ll see it and count it. Leave a link to your tweet (click the timestamp for the individual URL) in a separate comment.

If you’re inspired to write a whole blog post OR you have a photo on flickr to share, please link to it in the comments or tweet it.

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BYOB restaurants are gaining more and more popularity. Restaurant owners love the concept because they don’t have to purchase a liquor license or hire a bartender, and you love it because you don’t have to pay $10 for a glass of wine. And bringing your own booze doesn’t just cut down on the bill. It can also provide an opportunity to get creative with your food and drink pairings or prompt you to finally open that bottle of wine you’ve been saving for a special occasion. If you are dining with a group, you might even offer to bring a six pack of your favorite brew to make splitting the bill a little easier. (See also: Techniques for Splitting the Bill)

Even if choosing which BYOB cuisine you are in the mood for is a no-brainer, deciding what to pair it with can be a challenge, especially if your goal is to save money. There are plenty of frugal drink choices, from barley wine to sake, that can easily be paired with some of your favorite dishes. The types of BYOB restaurants do vary, but here are a few of the more common types of BYOB cuisine, listed with some inexpensive but delicious drinks to pair with your meal.

Thai and Vietnamese

One of the more common types of BYOB cuisine, Thai and Vietnamese dishes tend to be spicy, which means they pair well with certain white wines and lighter beers. If you aren’t a huge fan of sweet or overly fruity wine or beer, you can always go for something dry or hoppy. Either way, here are a few recommendations in those categories.

Wines: Riesling, Gewurztraminer, or Pinot Gris

While a sweet Riesling will definitely help tame the spice, any kind of Riesling pairs well with many types of Thai flavors. I prefer a dry Riesling, and my favorite is Bloom Riesling from Germany, partly because of its dryness and flavor, but also because I can usually find it under $10. Gewurztraminers are typically served at Thanksgiving, since this wine — similar to a dry Riesling — goes well with turkey, but it is also a fine choice for spicy foods. You can usually find Mill Creek Gewurztraminer from California for under $15. Another favorite wine to pair with spicy or Asian dishes is a Pinot Gris, because of its rich fruit flavors and crispness. If you can find it, the Lange Estate Winery Pinot Gris from Oregon is a very good domestic wine for the price, usually starting at around $10. No matter which one you choose, it is best to chill these wines (or any white) before you head out to the restaurant.

Beers: Saison/Farmhouse Ale

A standard Belgian Saison (French for “Season”), or Farmhouse Ale, has rich citrus flavors with hints of autumnal spices. The Saison Dupont from Belgium comes in a 750ml bottle (typically around $10, and the same size as a wine bottle), so there’s enough to go around. This Saison epitomizes the dry, yeasty flavors typical of many Farmhouse ales, and I find it an all-around beer that compliments spicy or mild cuisine. I highly recommend it with super spicy stir-fried dishes, because the malt and citrus enhance the peppery flavors in the food. Smuttynose also makes a decent and affordable Farmhouse. Before you pour, ask your server for something akin to a tulip glass or snifter, if they have one. According to the Beer Advocate, a Saison needs a glass that “Captures and enhances volatiles, while it induces and supports large foamy heads.” While there are many theories about the temperature at which you should serve finely crafted beers, it is probably best to avoid serving such a well-rounded beer at ice cold temps.

Italian and Pizza

Italian restaurants and pizza joints are a little trickier, since they are not typically BYOB, and Italian menus have a variety of dishes that you can pair with just about any kind of wine. Still, you can find a few BYOB Italian and pizza places out there. While beer and pizza is a classic combo, it can also pair well with a nice red or white wine, depending on the sauce and toppings. This list contains some of my favorites, but don’t limit yourself when pairing drinks with Italian fare.

Wines: Chianti, Barolo, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, or White Zinfandel

Before you get overwhelmed by that list, I will start by saying that Barolo and Chianti are classic Italian wines. They go with any dish that has a tomato base, including pizza. Barolos are a little more pricey and harder to find than a cheap Chianti. If you want to go super cheap, try Marchesi de Frescobaldi Nipozzano Chianti, which starts at $2 for some vintages! Merlot and Cab Sav both pair well with heavy meat dishes, but some wine enthusiasts think that the cheap bottles of drier reds are not worth the money saved. As someone who lives on a shoestring budget, I take that as a challenge. Red Truck Merlot is usually priced around $8 a bottle, and for a Merlot under $10, I find it to be a very decent wine. White Zinfandel and Chardonnay go well with lighter Italian fare or white pizza. Most California White Zins can be found under $15, and for a tasty Chardonnay under $15, try the Mercer Estates Chardonnay from Washington state.

Beers: Pilsner or Hefeweizen

Pilsners are not only a perfect match for pizza; they can also go well with most Italian dishes, particularly heavier ones since a traditional pilsner is a lighter beer. Even though many cheap pilsners have a bad reputation, I share Paul Michael’s secret love for PBR. But if you want to get a little adventurous, try a Hefeweizen, which is a little fuller than a pilsner and has a citrus flavor that I think pairs well with pasta and pizza. Sierra Nevada Kellerweis is a fairly inexpensive Hefeweizen (usually around $8 for a six pack) that you can find in most stores. If you can’t find Kellerweis, look for Harpoon’s UFO Hefeweizen, which sells for around the same price.

Indian and African

Most of the Ethiopian, Moroccan, Egyptian, and Indian restaurants I’ve been to are BYOB, which is partly why I’ve grouped them together. But they also have similar flavors and spices. Indian and Ethiopian foods tend to be very spicy, so you can try some of the pairings mentioned under Thai and Vietnamese cuisine. Here are a few more suggestions.

Wines: Honey wine, Riesling, Malbec, or Cabernet Sauvignon

I lived in D.C. for a few years, and the District is known for some of the best Ethiopian restaurants outside of Ethiopia. Many of the places that served alcohol would offer the traditional beverage of Ethiopia, a honey wine called tej, but it’s not often cheap or easy to find. Instead, you might try bringing a sweeter Riesling or a white blend. The French wine La Vieille Ferme Blanc is a white blend that goes with light or spicy fare. Priced at $7 and under, it’s a great value. Cabernet Sauvignon may seem like an odd choice for spicy food, but I think the heaviness rounds out the flavors, and it goes well with many of the meats served in African or Indian restaurants, such as lamb and beef. Red Truck also makes a Cab Sav made with organic grapes, which is labeled as Green Truck and sells for under $15. I like to drink that one with Moroccan dishes.

Beers: India Pale Ale, Traditional Lager, Hefeweizen, or Barley wine

While I think any of these beers go well with African or Indian food, I prefer a traditional lager with spicy food. It’s light, malty, and a little sweet to cut the spice. My favorite inexpensive lager is Yuengling. I know many beer snobs who agree that for the price, this is a decent lager. I also love many of the cheaper IPAs out there. Recently, I tried the Long Hammer IPA from Red Hook, and although it didn’t get rave reviews at the Beer Advocate, I thought it was flavorful. The flavors were also enhanced with a spicy meal, and for the price, it’s a good choice for a BYOB East African or Indian dishes.

Burgers and Pub Fare

To me, there is simply nothing better than a burger, fries, and a cold brew. Even if you aren’t eating beef on a bun, most red meats are good with any kind of beer. Don’t rule out wine, however. You can serve red or white with burgers. Most pub and bistro food, in fact, doesn’t necessarily call for one or the other. I think with burgers and pub fare, it’s really up to your preferences. Here are a few of my favorites.

Wines: Pinot Noir, Syrah blend, Merlot, or Pinot Gris

One of my newest discoveries is Bistro Pinot Noir from France, which you can find as cheap as $6 a bottle in some places! This is one of the best cheap wines I’ve had in a while. The tannins are not too overwhelming like many cheap reds, and it didn’t leave that acidic aftertaste that I find with most $6-$8 bottles. Another decent red that can be found at around the same price is the La Vieille Ferme Red, also from France. I’ve only seen one red and one white from this vineyard, and the red is a blend of Syrah and other grapes that produces a very nice red blend for the price. I prefer reds overall, but if I were to choose a white, I’d go with a Pinot Gris or Gewurztraminer, especially for the more gamey meats, such as lamb and venison burgers.

Beers: Wheat Ale, Pale Ale, Traditional Lager, or Farmhouse Ale

My favorite beer and pub food pairing is a nice Saison or Farmhouse Ale, and any of the ones I mentioned under Thai and Vietnamese food are excellent choices. If you prefer more traditional ales and lagers, then I would recommend the UFO White Ale from Harpoon Brewery in Boston. If you want a good pale ale, and you don’t mind going up slightly in price, I highly recommend Stone Pale Ale. Anything from this brewery is an excellent choice. Again, it’s really up to you, but there are so many wonderful and moderately priced beers out there, it’s hard to choose a favorite. With pub fare, I’d say your best option is to experiment and try something you might not normally drink.

Greek and Mediterranean

Whether you prefer the vegetables and hummus or the lamb, Greek and Mediterranean food can be paired with a variety of wine or beer. Depending on your palette, you may find that an unexpected pairing can enhance your dining experience the most. As with pub food, be adventurous when you go to a BYOB Mediterranean or Greek restaurant. Here are a few suggestions to get you started.

Wines: Malbec, Pinot Gris, or Chardonnay

Malbecs are becoming better known as a well-priced versatile wine. I prefer the Agua de Piedra Reserva Malbec (see 10 Great Wines Under 10 Dollars, #2 on the list). Any dish with cheese is a great match for this red, but especially a strong Feta. Another new frugal favorite is the Alamos Chardonnay, which is also from Argentina. I was surprised that at $6.99 a bottle (at my local co-op), this full-flavored wine went well with anything, but especially fish. You can’t go wrong with the flavor and the price on this Chardonnay.

Beers: Summer Ale or White Ale

The Brooklyn Summer Ale is my top choice for Greek and Mediterranean food, but there are many summer and wheat ales out there that you can find for a good price. Blue Moon Belgian White is another popular one. I would recommend either one of these to share at the neighborhood BYOB Greek joint.

Sushi and Seafood

Raw or cooked, fish and seafood are prime candidates for white wines and lighter beers; however, if you are more of a dark beer or red wine drinker, there are plenty of those to choose from as well. Stout and oysters are an unlikely pair, for instance, but this is one combination I would recommend if you like to hit a BYOB oyster bar. Don’t forget to pick up a bottle of sake when you head out to your favorite sushi restaurant, because you don’t have to drink it warm to enjoy it with your rolls and sashimi.

Wine/Sake: Sake Momokawa, Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay

I have to say that while I’m not a sake aficionado, I do trust the experts at Sake One. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed any sake I’ve tasted from this Oregon-based company, particularly the Momokawa. You don’t have to bring sake just because you’re eating at a BYOB sushi place, though. One of the cheapest yet drinkable wines that is readily available is the FishEye Winery Pinot Grigio. If you’re like my friends who raise eyebrows when they see a bottle of it in my fridge, here’s my response — I can get it at the gas station on the way home, and it’s ideal for spicy seafood and a thin wallet.

Beers: Stout or White Ale

My favorite white ale is the Allagash White, and while it isn’t as cheap as some of the other ales I’ve recommended, it’s an excellent beer for the price. You won’t find many beers of that quality under ten bucks for a six pack. It’s light and crisp, and it goes extremely well with seafood. If it’s a stout you’re looking for, you can never go wrong with Guinness, but there are plenty of comparable and well-rounded stouts made here in the states that give this famous Irish stout a run for the money. Although I’m slightly biased, the Vermont-based Rock Art Stump Jumper Gnarly Stout is everything you’d want in a well-balanced stout to wash down those raw oysters (if you can find it).

Don’t forget to ask about a corking fee. Some restaurants will charge a small fee to uncork your wine bottle, usually between two and five dollars. For more wine pairing tips, check out these wine-pairing suggestions.

Do you have a favorite food and drink pairing for a BYOB restaurant?

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Welcome to Wise Bread’s Best Money Tips Roundup! Today we found some great tips for dealing with a canceled flight, getting kids excited about art, and saving money on appliances.

Top 5 Articles

4 Steps to Handle a Canceled Flight — Spend the extra airport time a little more comfortably — ask your airline for a convenience kit. [SavvySugar]

5 Ways to Get Children Excited About Art — Check out the Doodle 4 Google contest! Winners will receive cool prizes and college scholarships. [Parenting Squad]

Money Saving Tips for Buying Appliances — Try to leave the kids at home when you go to the store, but do bring a pen and paper, a camera, and tape measure. [The Centsible Life]

5 Cell Phone Accessories You Should NEVER Buy From Your Wireless Provider — You can buy Bluetooth headsets from your wireless provider, but you’ll find greater variety and lower prices at other online stores. [Money Talks News]

Set a Goal, Make a Plan, Save Automatically. — Kick off America Saves Week 2012 by following these simple tips! [America Saves]

Other Essential Reading

Bankruptcy Myths Debunked: Fact vs. Fiction — You won’t actually lose everything you own if you file for bankruptcy. Certain assets are protected. [Credit Sesame]

How to Select the Best Credit Card — Look for credit cards that have the “ShopSafe” feature, which allows you to create temporary credit card numbers for online purchases. [Free Money Finance]

How to Promote Your Business for Less — Join an industry organization to connect your business with resources and customers. [Pocket Your Dollars]

How to Make an “Any Fruit” Smoothie — Use this easy recipe with any fruit you like for a quick, delicious smoothie. [Faithful Provisions]

What Do New Parents Need to Know About Taxes? — Remember to adjust your paycheck withholding to include the newest member of your household. [Couple Money]

News & Events

The Wealth Builder Carnival — Don’t miss The Wealth Builder Carnival, featuring articles about building, preserving and keeping enough wealth for a comfortable retirement.

Be sure to check out our News & Events Calendar to see all the awesome upcoming events in the personal finance world!

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The 9 to 5 grind can wear you down, and some of you may start to feel that all you’re doing at work is counting down the hours till you can clock out. Don’t let work get you down, and read on for ways you can fall back in love with your job again.

RELATED: 5 Little Tips to Help Kick-Start Your Work Week

Find a Mentor

Sometimes finding a career mentor can make a huge difference in your attitude and view towards your work-life. Some companies have their own mentoring program, which can either provide the employee a lot of guidance or none at all. Finding a mentor is something that generally happens organically, and you don’t necessarily have to find one that works at your company.

Try to put in some effort into finding your career yoda, and you might just find work more enjoyable. There’s nothing more inspiring than learning from someone who has been there and done that.

Build a Healthy Work-Life Balance

Burnout may be causing you to lose some love for your job. Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial to success and happiness at your job, because if your job starts getting you down, you’re going to end up dreading it.

Read these 15 tips for a better harmony between life and work.

Start a Volunteer Initiative

Giving back to society can create a great sense of well being. What better way to start then by organizing a volunteer initiative at work? You’ll be bonding with your coworkers and doing something meaningful at the same time.

Find out how you can start volunteering with your office, and read these five fun office volunteering ideas you can do.

Strengthen Your Work Friendships

Friends are what make the world go around, and the same rule can apply to your working world as well. Try to build up better working relationships by doing things such as attending more company events and having a friendlier attitude. After all, it’s the people at work that contribute the most to workplace satisfaction!

Plan Your Career Goals

If you haven’t written out your five-year career plan yet, do it now. It’s really helpful to put your goals into writing, because it really keeps things in perspective. Having everything on paper will add to your drive at work since you know what you should be working towards. And trust me, there is no greater feeling than crossing the items off your list.

Negotiate Better Perks, Salary

It’s time to put your negotiating skills to good use, and try to get better perks and a raise. If your company is unwilling to budge on a salary increase, figure out what makes you happy and aim for negotiating for those perks instead.

Perhaps more PTO days are what you need, or you would like to work from home more. Plan your strategy and set up a meeting with your boss.

Communicate With Your Boss

Better communication with your boss makes for a happy worker. Set up a time to check in with her, and ask her for some feedback. If there is anything at work that you are unsatisfied with, express your misgivings to her, but remember to keep it professional.

If you don’t already do this at work, try to establish regular one-to-one meetings with your manager.

Have a Positive Attitude

A huge part of happiness is mental, and if you stay positive, your attitude towards work might improve as well. Try to distance yourself from negative co-workers (if you have any), and focus on the things you love about your job, instead of lingering on the negatives.

Destress with your friends if you’re having angst about your work, and try to do nice things for people in your work life. You’ll be surprised at how being nice can get you ahead in your career.

Meet Passionate People in Your Industry

Start branching out and attend professional mixers and networking events. Passion can be very contagious and if you surround yourself with people who truly have love and dedication for their jobs, you might rediscover your own love for your job.

Search for a Job You Love

If you discover that no matter what you do, your job still leaves you unhappy, maybe you can chase your dreams and switch careers. Make sure you have thought it through carefully and that you’re willing to take on the financial risks that come with this big change. You can transition into a new industry by either temping, taking on freelance jobs, or going to grad school.

Welcome to Wise Bread’s Best Money Tips Roundup! Today we found some handy tips for making healthy meals, boosting your energy, and writing professional emails.

Top 5 Articles

The Secret to Fast Healthy Meals on a Budget — Use flavor boosters, like sun-dried tomatoes or hot sauce, to make your budget meal interesting. [Balance In Me]

5 Energy-Boosting Tricks to Try Today — Munch on whole grain, high-protein snacks to keep your energy levels steady throughout the day. [Parenting Squad]

10 Tips For Writing More Professional Emails — Beware multiple exclamation points and question marks! One piece of punctuation per sentence will do just fine. [SavvySugar]

7 Top Beauty Blunders – Solved! — If a new cream makes you break out in a rash, try soothing your skin with cooled chamomile tea and a dab of cream containing aloe vera. [Lifescript]

Easy Steps for First-Time Taxpayers — Your state tax form might ask for numbers from your federal return, so do the federal form first. [Kiplinger]

Other Essential Reading

What If I Make A Mistake On My Taxes? — Use Form 1040X if you need to make corrections on your filed tax return. [The Wisdom Journal]

5 Productivity Lessons From the Millennial Work Style — Millennials love to try new tools and tech. Adopt this attitude to learn about and experiment with more effective work routines. [Stepcase Lifehack]

4 ways to donate without spending money — Some charities allow you to donate with just a click of your mouse — literally! [Sense to Save]

What to Do If You Can’t Pay Your Taxes on Time — You can ask the IRS for an installment agreement if you think you can make the full payment over time. [Generation X Finance]

7 Secrets Social Security Won’t Tell You — Save yourself some time and stress by getting a professional to help you apply for social security disability benefits. [Square Pennies]

News & Events

Carnival of Personal Finance #349: Hosted by Sustainable Personal Finance — Don’t miss the Carnival of Personal Finance, featuring some of the week’s most interesting and informative blogger-written articles within the broad spectrum of personal finance.

Best of Money Carnival #143: Hosted By Frugal Confessions — Don’t miss the Best of Money Carnival, featuring the ten best (in the opinion of the carnival host) money-related posts of the past two weeks.

Be sure to check out our News & Events Calendar to see all the awesome upcoming events in the personal finance world!

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Since leaving home 12 years ago, when I was 18, I’ve always lived with someone else.

Most people my age have, in fact. Either they’re cohabitating with a lover, or they want to cut down on expenses by sharing space with others. And who doesn’t? We all want to save wherever we can.

For me, I enjoyed the rent savings that comes with sharing a house or apartment, but also I prefer to have someone around so I’m not lonely (and because I’m afraid of the dark — I feel better knowing someone else is there; go ahead and make fun of me in the comments below).

But besides those few reasons just mentioned, there are several other benefits to having a roommate. Take a look at what I’ve come up with, and tell me if you agree. (See also: When You Should and Shouldn’t Rent)

1. To Share the Cost of Household Essentials

If you’re living with other people, it’s everyone’s responsibility to clean the house and share the cost of the cleaning supplies. If that’s not happening, it can create an awkward living situation. True story — I once lived with a closet crackhead who contributed zilch to the house, barely paid his rent, and invited friends over and let them tear into food that I had just purchased. You want to avoid confrontations with roommates at all costs to keep the peace, and pitching in equally in terms of household duties and supplies is critical.

2. For Carpooling

I doubt you and your roommate work together, but if you do, you’ve hit the jackpot on saving on gas and allowing your car to last longer by not using it as often. Even if you don’t work together, however, you can still carpool to other places, such as the grocery store or the mall if you both need or want to go at the same time. When I lived with roommates, I would always let them know when I was going someplace that they might be interested in. I was happy to give them a lift — plus, I had company. One of them (not the crackhead) would return the favor whenever he was going someplace that he thought I might need to go.

3. To Split Entertainment Fees

It’s common for roommates to split utilities and cable, but there are other items that can be shared as well. For instance, a Netflix account. If you live in the same house, there’s no reason to have more than one Netflix account. You’ll have to work out a way to make it work for all parties involved. The one-DVD-at-a-time plan probably isn’t a good idea — nobody will ever agree on a movie — but the three-DVDs-at-a-time plan could work for two or more roommates, and everyone saves more money than if they had their own separate subscriptions. Same goes for magazines. If you both like a particular magazine, why not go in half on the subscription?

4. To Sit Your Pet

Anybody with a pet knows that dog-sitting and boarding expenses can take a large chunk of change out of your pocket at the most inopportune time — you could use that extra money while you’re on vacation. If you have a roommate, he or she will likely be more than happy to take care of your pet while you’re away. Politely ask them if it’s possible, and offer to show your appreciation by taking them out to dinner, which, unless they’re a glutton, will cost much less than you’d pay for professional pet services. If you want to save even more money, suggest repaying them by doing something around the house, like cleaning the bathroom or another activity that your roommate might normally do.

5. To Become Order-In Buddies

Unless you plan to eat the whole pizza by yourself, you should ask your roommate to share the food and the cost with you. By doing this, nothing will go to waste, and you’ll both be satisfied for less. This works for any kind of order-in that has a minimum delivery threshold, really. If the item you want is $7, but there’s a $10 minimum, you’ll probably end up purchasing an additional item you don’t want to meet the minimum. Before you do that, though, ask the roommate if there’s anything he or she would like. It’ll save you a few bucks.

6. To Deter Would-Be Intruders

Some roommates have different schedules — and that can be a good thing. If someone is always home, there’s less of a chance of an intruder getting away with your stuff. I once lived with roommates, and we had a break-in in the middle of the day. No one was home at the time, but if they were, they could have stopped him. However, if I were the unfortunate one to have been home at the time, I would’ve hidden under the bed like a coward. Note to you — don’t ever live with me.

7. To Unlock the Door When You’ve Lost Your Keys

This has happened to me on several occasions, and I was thankful that my roommate was home when I called so he could unlock the door for me. Better than sitting on the stoop forever, or even worse, calling a locksmith.

8. To Have Your Back When You’ve Had Too Much

When I lived in Baltimore, I had a roommate who I would go out on the town with. And on occasion, I would have too much, but he always got me home safely. I did the same for him; we had each other’s backs. Even if you’re not going out together, it’s still great to have someone in the house to make sure you haven’t overdone it when you stumble home, and if you have, to make the right decision regarding your well-being.

What are some other benefits to having a roommate? Let me know in the comments below.

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Welcome to Wise Bread’s Best Money Tips Roundup! Today we found some great articles on winning eBay auctions, re-evaluating your food storage habits, and saving money in an expensive city.

Top 5 Articles

A Winner’s Guide To Buying on eBay — Reduce the competition by looking for auctions that end outside of eBay’s peak traffic hours. [Money Cactus]

Questioning the norm: Storing fruits and veggies — Find out if your food storage habits are really the best ways to keep your produce fresh. [Get Rich Slowly]

4 Ways to Save Money Living in an Expensive City — Ditch the car if you can. Cycling, walking, taking public transit, are all cheaper ways to get around in a big city. [Young and Thrifty]

How to determine your salary range accurately — Use this simple process (and Excel) to figure out your salary range. [Fabulously Broke]

The Ultimate Guide To Becoming A Doer — Prioritize what you want to do so you can block out distractions and focus on what’s really important. [Dumb Little Man]

Other Essential Reading

5 Ways to Increase Your Credit Score Quickly — Keep your credit card accounts open to extend your credit history, even if you don’t use the cards. [Moolanomy]

Are You Making These 5 Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Retirement? — Excessive or hidden fees can eat away at your retirement fund. Make sure you stay on top of any changes to your accounts. [Ask The Money Coach]

Take Care of Your (Future) Self — Don’t let your behavioral instincts trip you up! If you know you’re prone to impulse purchases, take a shopping list and stick to it. [Free Money Wisdom]

Shop Around for Car Repairs — The key is to shop around before something goes wrong. [The Simple Dollar]

5 maternity clothes myths — The proportions of a woman’s body change during pregnancy. Simply buying a larger size might not be a good fit. [Super Frugalette]

News & Events

Money Crashers Tweetchat (#MCchat) — Don’t miss Money Crashers’ weekly #MCchat at 1 p.m. PST! They will be giving away prizes!

Be sure to check out our News & Events Calendar to see all the awesome upcoming events in the personal finance world!

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The one big upside to filing your tax return that everybody can agree on is getting money back from the government. How good does it feel to see that positive amount on the bottom of your return? For some families their refund goes right into that college savings account, to pay off their credit card, to take that long-awaited vacation, or simply to make ends meet in these tougher economic times. (See also: 8 Smart Things to Do Wity Your Tax Refund)

But did you know, every year, there are tens of millions of dollars the IRS won’t be refunding taxpayers — even if they might be expecting that nice chunk of change this spring?

Before you count on the check from Uncle Sam (and work the expected boost into your household budget), make sure you don’t fall into one of these categories…or the IRS might be holding onto your refund or giving it to someone else after all.

1. There are errors on your return

Every spring, people make the same, relatively straightforward mistakes on their tax returns that prevent the IRS from processing their refund on time. Common errors include: putting down the wrong filing status, an incorrect social security number, or missing information that’s required for certain credits and deductions.

Advice for all filers — double and triple check your return before you mail or submit it, paying particular attention to anywhere you have to fill in names, numbers or addresses. Try to give yourself as much time as possible. Doing your return at 2 a.m. the day it’s due doesn’t leave you much room to catch any mistakes.

If you’re preparing your own return, without the help of a tax professional, be careful that you’ve done your math correctly and you actually are due money back. Too often, I see people who run out and spend a phantom refund, only to have the rug ripped out from under them when they find out their calculations were off, and they really shouldn’t be getting anything from the government this year.

Better safe than sorry. Don’t spend your tax refund until you can either physically hold the check in your hand or see the amount in your bank account.

2. You owe back taxes

Nobody likes to hear this one, but the IRS is like the friend who holds a grudge for a long time and never lets go. If you owe federal or state taxes from previous years, the government can just yank the amount you’re expecting back this year and apply it as an “overpayment” towards the taxes you haven’t paid yet. And it’s bye-bye refunds until the entire debt is gone.

3. You haven’t paid child support

While it might take a little while for the right federal and state agencies to catch up with the problem, the government can place a levy on your tax refund to pay any outstanding child support you owe — even after your kid is 18 (and no additional support is legally due).

4. You defaulted on your student loans

Recent data has shown that people are defaulting on their student loans in record numbers. And with the job market the way it is, it’s no surprise more and more students are having trouble keeping up with their payments after school.

Be aware — the IRS can (and does) turn your refund over to the Department of Education to pay down loans you’ve defaulted on. The agencies do “talk” to one another, and while it may not happen right away, chances are they will catch up with you.

5. They just can’t find you

By the same token, hard as it may be to believe in the world of Facebook, Google Maps, and Twitter, the IRS is holding onto $153 million dollars right now in refunds it just can’t seem to deliver.

Why? Because they have an incorrect mailing address for you, and can’t locate your residence to mail you a check. And currently, the IRS won’t try to contact taxpayers by email or phone, so you might have no idea that they’re holding on to your money in the first place.

Best thing to do? Always choose to have your refund deposited directly into your bank account if you can (and triple check those numbers to make sure they’re right!), especially if you know you’re moving soon. Also, if you suspect you fall into this category, check in with the IRS on their website or call their hotline to make sure there aren’t any old refunds lurking around out there that you deserve.

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Looking to take your bargain shopping efforts to the next level? Discount grocery stores can play a huge part in that plan. Offering staples, produce, and even some brand-name grocery items at significantly reduced prices, these chains can be a penny pincher’s paradise. One of the more prevalent discount grocery chains in my area is Save-a-Lot. It’s also one of my favorites. While you won’t find much there in the way of organic groceries, you will find numerous conventional food items for a song. For my money, this makes it one of my go-to places when I need to fill in with basic non-organic produce or pick up some quick menu items for a dinner party. Here are my favorite shopping deals from Save-a-Lot. (See also: Save on Groceries With Discount Grocery Stores)

1. Cocktail Bread

Cocktail bread is one of my all-time favorite party hacks. Already baked in a size suitable for appetizers and conveniently sliced for easy assembly, it can be a best friend to any hostess in a hurry. While I don’t have a problem dishing out the $3-$4 it normally costs at other grocery stores, I was seriously stoked to find the rye-flavored loaves for $1.89 during a recent Save-a-Lot visit. It makes a great base for a favorite party spread I make with canned salmon and works with other canapA(c) recipes as well.

2. Mini Pizza Crusts

Remember those toaster-oven appetizers I recommended in my business tips article for bed and breakfast owners? Well, you can now prepare them even more affordably. During the same visit I discovered the cocktail bread, I also noticed multi-packs of personal-sized prepared pizza crust for roughly $3. Requiring only 5-8 minutes in the oven to heat the toppings properly, these make for a fun lunch or a simple elegant dinner when paired with a mixed green salad and your wine of choice. They are also great for trying out different pizza sauce ideas, since you can put several customized pies in the oven at once.

3. Pineapples

When this fruit is in season, it can still cost anywhere from $3-$5 at other grocery stores in my area. They’re always less than $2 at the nearest Save-a-Lot, leaving me to enjoy all of the pineapple recipes I want during the summer. One of my favorite simple ones is grilled pineapple steaks on the grill with an all-purpose Asian grilling sauce.

4. Bananas

Frequently as low as 33 cents per pound, and routinely less than 50 cents, I always stock up when I happened to be in the store. Banana recipes are flavorful, provide boatloads of potassium, and are extremely affordable for the average family.

5. Wine

While the selection is minimal, Save-a-Lot has started offering a modest wine selection with a few brands that we don’t mind stocking for a basic weekday dinner. I don’t do all of my wine shopping there by any means, but it’s been nice to have the option to pick up a basic bottle there instead of having to make an extra stop on family pasta night. They also have a few brands which are suitable for sangria.

6. Spices

With bargain brands like Badia available, it’s easy to stock up on things like garlic powder and ground cumin when my schedule’s too tight to drive down to the Pakistani market in the city. Not only are these seasonings helpful for basic soups and sauces, they also work well for putting together homemade bread mixes for a savory dinner side.

7. Turkey Ham

When it comes to saving money on meat, the Jennie-O turkey hams are one of my top tips for busy home cooks. Easily diced and sliced with no de-boning or cooking necessary, I’ve priced them at $2.50 at Save-a-Lot versus $4-$5 at most closely priced store. We’re not eating that much meat at our house anymore, but for those who are, these are great. You can whip up pasta salad, carbonara, and a number of other simple dishes on the fly.

8. Sofrito

For those who enjoy Latin-style cooking, the jars of sofrito in the ethnic cooking section are a steal. They are definitely an affordable convenience food that I’ve leaned on for savory soups and sauces. One of my favorite is an El Salvadoran soup made with those bags of mixed seafood, tomatoes, and a few vegetables.

9. Corn Tortilla Mix

If you want homemade with a little less hassle, then you may want to check out the bags of corn tortilla mix. Easily stored in an airtight pantry container or large canning jars, this mix is an affordable way to enjoy tortilla-based meals with extra-fresh flavor.

10. Peppers

With green peppers typically priced at two for a buck, whipping up your favorite Cuban food recipes is more affordable than ever. They’re also great for stir fry dishes, pizza toppings, and homemade spaghetti sauce in the crock pot.

11. Roma Tomatoes

These are one of my two favorite types of tomatoes, and I love the fact that Save-a-Lot has them for less than a buck per pound at various times during the year when they cost nearly double elsewhere. One easy way to use them when feeding a crowd is in Middle-East-inspired cocktail sandwiches made with bulk mozzarella. They also work well in spinach salad. Again, they’re not organic, but for a quick fill in on a busy week, it’s nice to be able to pick them up in the same plaza where I frequently run other errands.

12. Avocados

Avocados are one of several plant-based diet tricks that make transitioning to a reduced-dairy lifestyle easier. Full-flavored and healthy, they make a creamy addition to many meals you may already enjoy eating, such as tacos, sandwich wraps, and homemade guacamole. They are regularly priced at $1 each for the larger ones in season, and at other stores I have to wait for a sale to see that price. This makes it worth my while to stop there specifically when I’m on an avocado mission.

13. Sweet Potatoes

Always less than a dollar per pound and sometimes as low as 39 cents per pound, the jumbo sweet potatoes at Save-a-Lot make their way into my refrigerator produce drawer on a regular basis. They make an elegant and simple side dish when paired with roasted beets, and when I don’t feel like making veggie burgers, I can slice off large rounds to roast in the oven. Yes, they’re still just sweet potatoes, but the side next to the baking dish that’s been brushed with olive oil caramelizes nicely and provides the look of miniature patties on the plate when I’m serving other items that are more traditional for meat and potatoes dinner guests. Bonus? They cook more quickly that way.

14. Cilantro

It may not be on everybody’s list of favorite kitchen herbs, but it is extremely popular with a fair number of people. It’s also one of the easiest soup garnishes to prepare. Just snip into a bowl, and you’re good to go. While the large bunches are priced at 2 for $1 on a regular basis, I typically have to pay more than a dollar for just a single batch at my other favorite chain stores. The only place I can top this price is at Patel Brothers, which is in a location I can only manage to get to once every two or three months. So when I need a fresh batch of this herb and don’t want my grocery budget to take the hit, Save-a-Lot is where I shop for it.

15. Mangoes

The large mangoes are routinely priced at around a buck per mango, similar to the way they price the large avocados. This makes them extremely affordable to bring home and prepare things like mango sorbet, a grilled fruit medley, or one of my favorite black bean recipes, mango-black bean salsa. Since the store also carries cilantro, jalapenos, canned beans, limes, and other basic ingredients, the salsa can pretty much be whipped up with one-stop shopping. It pairs well with grilled fish, plain rice, or even grilled pork medallions if you’re so inclined.

16. Snacks

When it’s junk food you’re craving and you don’t want to spend much for it, Save-a-Lot has a decent snack selection that includes things like Fritos, cheese crackers, Doritos, and other guilty pleasures. The cracker selection also works well when planning a party with a variety of spreads and dips.

17. Cured Turkey Sausage

As I pointed out in my previous hurricane preparedness article, cured meats are a great way to remain prepared for both power and entertainment emergencies. They are shelf stable; easily sliced or chopped for sauces, pasta salads, and other delicious num-nums; and reasonably affordable, depending on where you purchase them. That’s why I was excited to see packages of short-linked, cured turkey sausage on a recent cruise through the Save-a-Lot aisles.

18. Cabbage

While cooking with cabbage is relatively inexpensive no matter where you buy it, I have noticed that it’s usually less than 50 cents per pound at my local Save-a-Lot store. So if you don’t want to wait for those March sales and aren’t planning to buy organic anyway, this is a great place to stock up on this particular produce item.

19. Ramen

The six-packs of ramen here are regularly priced at six for a dollar, a price I need to sale-watch for at my other favorite stores. So if ramen recipes are something you enjoy, then this might be your best bet if you have a location near where you live.

20. Meat and Dairy

I realize I’ve already listed a couple of other meat items above, but for those who indulge regularly in these types of food items, I feel they deserve their own category with regards to this particular article. The bargain meats, cheeses, and other dairy products at Save-a-Lot are a huge money saver for those whose favorite sandwich ideas include stacking ‘em high with protein and multiple cheesy flavors. Other meat items are extremely affordable there as well, including turkey breasts, chicken leg quarters, and prepared treats like meatballs, chicken tenders, and more.

21. Canned Goods

While we try to eat mostly fresh and frozen items when we can, the truth is it’s difficult to resist the convenience of canned items at least occasionally. The way I figure it, it’s at least cheaper than takeout or frozen pizza. So when push comes to shove I don’t mind using canned products for my favorite bean recipes or picking up a can of fruit for an easy meal enhancement. At this store, I routinely see canned goods priced at less than 60 cents each, making them an affordable time saver on a busy evening.

22. Mixes

Seasoned rice blends, dry pizza crust blend, and cake mixes are readily available for less than $2 each, making for simple side dishes, corn muffins, dump cakes, and other easy menu items when you need a break from the stove at the end of the week, yet still have a Sunday dinner to pull off. While I don’t recommend overloading your family meal plan with processed foods, there’s nothing wrong with a little help now and again in the form of prepared items.

OK Wise Bread readers, these are my favorite bargains at Save-a-Lot. Do you have a list of favorite things you like to pick up there? Or another favorite grocery chain that offers a selection of superior values?

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