Things You Shouldn't Be Paying For

So much money and energy is wasted on things we could get for free. If you're into new things, and collecting shiny things, this is not for you. But if you want less clutter in your life and want to keep more of your money, then check out these 15 things you should not be paying.

Basic Computer Software - Thinking of buying a new computer? Think twice before you fork over funds for a lot of extra software. There are some alternatives to name brand software programs. The most notable is OpenOffice, the open source alternative to the other guys. It is completely free and the files can be exported in formats compatible.

Your credit report - You do not have to pay for your credit report. You can subscribe to a service free credit monitoring online to get a quick look at your credit report. You just need to remember to cancel the service before the end of free trial. Or you could do a better, visit www.annualcreditreport.com, the only truly free place to see all three of your credit reports for free once a year.

Cell Phone - The service plan can be expensive, but the phone itself does not have to cost a thing. Most major carriers will give you a free phone, even a free phone smart, with a two-year contract.

Debt Reduction Help - Speaking of credit cards, if you're over your head with the help of credit card, there are many free sources you can turn for help with your debt. Nobody will be able to magically wipe away their debts, but there is help out there will set you up on a plan of debt reduction that you can handle. Start with a visit to the National Foundation for Credit Counseling.

Books - There's a nice place in your town who is renting books for free: the library. Remember that place? Stop by and place your favorite book in the reserve. And if you do not want to leave, www.paperbackswap.com visit and find your books there (shipping extra small).

Water - In addition to the account monthly service, there is no reason to pay $ 1 per bottle of water you drink. Bottled water is so last decade, anyway. We're on top, and in touch, filters and reusable water bottles. It's cheaper for you and better for the environment.

Credit Cards - With so many credit cards that are available today, it is easy to avoid a credit card with an annual fee. Unless you're dead set on a special bonus, which brings a payment card, skip the card annual fee and the money from the same pocket.

Basic Tax Preparation - If your tax situation is not so complicated, then you should probably be preparing your own tax return using one of many online services free. It is now common for e-filing to be free, so, with many services. You will not need a stamp.

The News - Leave a blogger to try to kill the traditional printing. I'm not anti-newspaper. I just do not find them more practical. Spend the day 0.50 cents and receive on-line news. And for you coupon clippers dedicated, you can get more coupons from Sunday now also online.

DVD Rental - Did you know you can rent DVDs from local RedBox for $ 1 a night? And better yet, if you use a coupon codes www.insideredbox.com you can avoid the expense of U.S. $ 1. DVD rental free! Most libraries now have free DVD rentals as well.

Exercise - Skip the expensive gym associations. Visit your local park for a walk or run. From basic push-up programs and sit in your living room. Rent a DVD training library. There are many training programs free, you can download online.

Budget Tools - There are many budgeting tools (both online and desktop) that offer the service free. Do not ask me how they do it, but who cares. If you're looking to reign in some of its expenses, the good news is that you can do it for free.

Pets - This is a controversy, I know. But there are probably many pets down at your local animal shelter who could use love as well as the types of pure breed. There may be a small fee payable under shots and basic care, but you will get your pet home without paying a mini-fortune.

Shipping - If you like to shop online, you probably use coupons for a percentage off your purchase. Take your skills to the next level and look for coupons or codes that offer free shipping promotions. If in doubt, visit a site like www.freeshipping.org.

Current Account - Is not it nice when a bank takes your money, lend it to make money, and then has the audacity to charge for this service? What a joke. Verification should be free. If yours is not free, then switch to one of many banks that offers a checking account for free. And the same can be said for ATM fees, fees for cash and checks.