new plan

**Jenna** · 07-15-2006, 01:55 AM

Looking back over my bills, I've noticed that since June 12th, I've paid almost $800 to my c/c's.

Good news - I PIF before interest is incurred. Bad news - I spent $800 with little to show. Really bad news - I work at one of my favorite places to shop.

So, I'm thinking about going "cash only" for my day to day expenses. I'm setting aside $60 a week for groceries/gas/incidentals money. I'm fortunate to split the grocery bill 50/50 with the SO, and only fill up the gas tank once every 2-3 weeks.

I cut back on the dinners out, on my cell phone (Pre-paid) and don't go to the mall at all.

What's killing me is the small purchases. I need to regain control of the spending to avoid taking on a second job.

Anybody else have an achilles heel? Or anyone have any luck with cash only?

**autumnlynn** · 07-15-2006, 03:03 AM

I use the cash system. Actually it's the envelope system in the Dave Ramsey plan where I budget so much for food, gas, entertainment, etc and once the money in the envelope is gone, you quit spending. I also keep a journal where I track my daily expenses. I write down everything I spend and that also helps keep me in check. I can easily see if I am spending too much in one area.

I haven't used a CC in over two years. I don't give myself the option of credit. That is why I have my emergency fund. I truly don't ever want to use credit again.

**ironmaiden** · 07-15-2006, 01:50 PM

Hmmmm... is another job an option. One where you don't like the merchandise?

**auntie2many** · 07-15-2006, 04:22 PM

I, also follow the Dave Ramsey envelope system and have been doing this for six years now. It works out the best for my family.

Wishing you the best of luck on curbing the spending.

auntie

**Jenna** · 07-15-2006, 04:43 PM

A lot of the $800 was spent on a trip home last month, but I'm also spending $4-$12 here and there on items.

I haven't done cash only since high school.... it's been about 16 years.

I'm nervous to go cold turkey on the cards.

**Jerseygirl** · 07-16-2006, 02:50 PM

I use my amex for everything-I only carry about $200 cash per month for lunches out, paying the lawn guys etc. I find I feel kinda rediculous charging less than $20 at a time so I tend to buy less, and knowing that I have to pay it back at the end of the month in a lump sum keeps me under control. I have a problem with cash coming in one hand and out the other. ----Kellie

**peanut** · 07-16-2006, 05:37 PM

We do cash only, using the envelope system. I'm in deep do-do right now. I have $20 left in groceries until the end of the month. I won't be able to make it. Produce and meat have both gone up. It's unreal. I'll have to borrow from my Clothing envelope again, much to my dismay. That's a no-no, but in order to try and get fresh, ripe produce I need to buy it local. The stuff being shipped in is pathetic.

Jean