Ask whether your pharmacy offers a discount program.
Social Security provides the sole source of income for approximately 21 percent of people aged 65 and older, according to the National Academy of Social Insurance. People in this group often find themselves struggling to make ends meet, especially at the end of the month. Cutting back on expenses and spending money frugally can help you stretch your Social Security check, as can inquiring about programs and discounts for senior citizens and others living on fixed incomes.
Instructions
1. Set a monthly budget and stick to it. Pay for necessities --- including rent or mortgage, food, medication and utilities --- before spending money on entertainment or impulse purchases.
2. Clip coupons from your Sunday paper and shop at grocery stores that offer double coupons. Stock up on items you regularly use when they're on sale. Buy fruits and vegetables at local farmers markets, where it's usually fresher and less expensive than produce sold at grocery stores.
3. Take advantage of senior discounts at retail stores, movie theaters, museums and restaurants. Be prepared to show proof of age when asking for a senior discount.
4. Call your utility companies and inquire about discounts or programs available for those who live on fixed incomes. Your gas or electricity company might be able to charge you a flat monthly rate based on prior usage so you aren't hit with exorbitant bills during extremely hot or cold months.
5. Implement water- and energy-saving measures in your home. Install a low-flow shower head, keep your thermostat set at 65 degrees F when you're not at home, purchase energy-efficient compact fluorescent light bulbs and regularly clean the filters on your air conditioner. Making small changes to your energy and water use can add up over time and save you money.
6. Trade services with friends and family members. Offer to walk a neighbor's dog in exchange for yard work. Baby-sit a friend's grandchildren in exchange for home repairs. Getting creative with bartering can save you hundreds of dollars a year or more on home services.
7. Call your pharmacy and ask whether it offers a discount program or card you can use in combination with your health insurance or Medicare.
Tags: Social Security, Call your, discount program, fixed incomes, grocery stores, offers discount
