Deflating Inflation

Here are some ideas to help you stretch your dollars.

When you go to buy something, ask yourself if another item at a lower price will do the job just as well. Many products make excellent substitutes and may often be better than the original.

Families at all income levels are having trouble buying the things they want or need. One way to help fight rising prices and to enjoy your income is to try new ideas that can help stretch your dollars.

Here are 12 suggestions for fighting inflation:

DON'T BUY IT. Ask yourself if you really need the item. If it's a "Want" item rather than a "need," ask yourself if there is anything you want more. Give yourself a day or two to think about it. Most items can wait a day or two; a "last chance" to buy isn't often really a last chance. If you have a hard time not buying, stay out of stores.

BORROW. Sometimes you can borrow an item you need, especially if it's something you don't need often. Return borrowed items in good condition. Don't forget the library and other public services when you need to borrow. Do you have items you are willing to lend?

SHARE. Sharing items with family and friends can save money. Neighbors can sometimes share the price of something like a bushel of apples. Everyone benefits by sharing ideas, recipes and skills with others.

FIND IT FREE. Free goods and services can really help to stretch your money. Tax dollars buy things for the community that everyone an use. Parks, playgrounds, community health services and libraries are among the services available to you without charge.

TRADE. If you have things in your home that you no longer need or want, you may be able to trade them to others who can use them.

RENT OR HIRE. When you need something for a short time, it may be cheaper to rent it. What kinds of things can you rent? Count coin operated laundries, cars, tools and special occasion clothing. Sometimes we can rent things when the cost of buying them is too high for our budget.

FIND THE BEST BUY. Finding the best buy may take time and energy. The best buy for you is the item that will serve your needs best at the lowest possible price. Finding the best buy may mean looking in several places: catalogues, newspapers, calling or going to two or three different stores. Sometimes secondhand stores offer the best buy.

MAKE IT. Sometimes you can save money by making an item instead of buying it. The materials should cost less than the finished product. Be sure to check prices before you supply your know how, labor and time to make something.

USE COUPONS OR REFUNDS. Use cents-off coupons from stores and manufacturers to stretch your dollars. Save labels and product packaging and send them in for cash refunds. Coupons and refund offers are found in magazines, newspapers and often come in your mail.

USE WISELY. Find ways to make your belongings last longer or keep from spoiling before you use them up.

CARE FOR. Almost every product you buy needs some kind of care. Read labels and instruction books that come with items you buy. Learn to clean and care for the things you own.

For more information on budgeting and other home money management matters, contact your local county Extension office.