My money in 2009

I've been sloppy with my money. I haven't paid much attention to my cash flow unless my accounts get low, and I don't do much to try to save money on purchases and eliminate unnecessary fees. I intend to pay attention this year.

Here is how I intend to become fiscally disciplined in 2009:

• I will negotiate lower interest rates on my credit cards by working with a debt counselor or relief agency. [Consolidated my credit cards on Jan 14th into a loan with a fixed interest rate. Making payments to eliminate debt in 48 months]
• I will reduce my car insurance payments by negotiating with Allstate or switching providers if they will not reduce my premium*. [completed 1/2/2009]
• I will set up a new ING savings account* [Completed 1/16/2009] and maintain a minimum balance of $2,500** so that I don't have to use credit cards for minor emergencies.
• I will establish a new monthly IRA investment of 3%*. [Rescinded. This doesn't make sense with my credit card debt.]
• I will continue to contribute to my 401(k) in order to maximize my employer's match.
• I will pay all of my bills on time in order to avoid late fees. [I screwed up already, but I learned my lesson. $179 for late rent is not ever going to happen again.]
• I will actively maintain a monthly budget and make spending decisions based on it.
• I will only withdraw cash from ATM machines when I have money in my USAA account (which refunds ATM fees).
• I will cut down food expenses by using one restaurant coupon per week and by limiting the number of expensive (>$30) meals to four each month.
• I will not buy new electronic hardware for personal use in 2009.

*by February 1st, 2009 **by April 1st, 2009