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Going-Out-of-Business Sales Not Such a Bargain

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Money tip | How to cut costs and get your finances in order in 2009

• Make your finances a priority. You may have spent more during the holidays, so the new year is the perfect time to make a change.

• Stay calm and don't make any major financial moves like cashing out your 401(k). The recession has been here since December 2007 so there is no need to panic.

• Re-evaluate your spending habits. Go through your last six months of bank statements. Do this every two months in 2009 to make sure you stay on track.

• Build a monthly budget and set financial goals by creating a plan to stay on track.

• Create a lifestyle that fits your budget. Find ways to cut back where you can. For example, trim your cable package, turn down the thermostat and reduce your dining out.

• Pay with cash. Stop using credit cards and live a cash-only lifestyle.

• Find a part-time job to make extra money.

• Pay down debt. Make it a priority to pay down credit-card debt. The longer you keep a balance on your credit card, the more money you are losing.

• Start an emergency savings fund. Start small and build the reserve as backup for when you are faced with unexpected expenses such as health emergencies or necessary car repairs.

• Keep your spirits up. Don't look at these changes as deprivations, but as powerful steps that you are taking to get your finances in order.

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Tax time: How to file free online: the IRS announced that for the 2009 tax-filing season, regardless of your income, you can file for free electronically by going to www.irs.gov.