To protect yourself against identity theft, it is a good safety measure to change your important passwords and PIN numbers every 6 months (at least). Most financial institutions will allow you to change them online.

Check out consignment and thrift stores for lightly-used items. You’ll be surprised at the variety of name brand goods, and who knows…you might find a vintage masterpiece!

Give kids a clothing allowance or offer "matching funds" for what they want to buy

Hold a clothing swap with friends

Avoid dry-clean-only clothing

Inventory your wardrobe and buy pieces that work with what you already own

Find out what looks good on you and stick to classic styles that won't look weird next season

Monitor insurance claims to make sure they get paid

Always carefully review hospital bills for errors

Use urgent-care clinics rather than emergency rooms whenever possible