Lower your home, life and automobile insurance costs. If you haven't shopped in the last two years, you probably pay too much. If you have a deductible less than $500, you probably pay too much.
Get a discount on your student loans. Sallie Mae will slice 2 percentage points off the interest rate on certain loans if you have made your payments on time.
Don't sign a long-term contract for things that aren't must-haves. It's OK to buy your home, car and college degree on a monthly payment plan, but for anything else, like a gym membership, it is a really bad idea.
Get a roommate or a tenant. Share your space. Be sure to read up on lease terms, security deposits and local zoning ordinances.
Buy used vehicles. Drive it until it falls apart, and then drive it some more.
Return the rentals. If you are renting furniture, appliances or anything else besides the roof over your head, then give it back.
Buy a home you can afford. Getting approved for a mortgage is no guarantee that you can actually afford the house.
Just pay cash. When it comes to "fun" money, shift to cash. When it's gone, quit spending.
Source<: "All Your Worth: The Ultimate Lifetime Money Plan" by Elizabeth Warren