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Pinching your pennies

Whether you live on a fixed income or simply enjoy the thrill of the hunt for savings, many resources can help make the most of your money.

By NANCY PARADIS
Published April 26, 2005

	[Times illustration: Teresanne Cossetta]
	A rich life without a high price tag One of our favorite restaurants gives senior discounts, which makes it possible to eat there fairly often.

MaryLou Gustin does not believe in paying full price ... for anything ... ever. The 72-year-old South Pasadena resident has always been this way, she said.

She has always wanted to make her dollars stretch, whether she needed to or not.

"You'd be amazed at how much you can save," she said, pointing to the tomato plants in her garden. She started them by tossing the stems and parts she didn't eat into the ground. Mother Nature took care of the rest.

She rescued Easter lilies from the altar of her church. In her hands, they will experience a resurrection, and the plants' cellophane wrappers will be saved for future use.

So many routinely discarded things have other uses, Gustin said, from the oxygen tubing a friend once gave her (it works just fine as plant ties) to old curtain hooks which she bends and uses to hang her jewelry. A recent garage sale netted a bag of belt buckles for $1. She runs a cord through them and voila: a necklace. "I got so many compliments when I wore one recently," she said. She points to a lace table runner she picked up for a dime. "It's just incredible what I can buy. It's a game all the way."

But using coupons is where Gustin has turned economizing into an art form. Though their immediate benefit is obvious, there are ways to maximize the savings, she said. Since so many supermarkets now honor their competitors' coupons, using one store's coupon in another store when that item is on sale can increase savings significantly. So can using coupons during buy-one/get-one-free sales. "It's a challenge," she said. "It's not being cheap or thrifty. It's using your mind."

Whether you're trying to get by on a fixed income or simply want to hone your bargain-hunting skills, there are many ways to save money.

One of the advantages of being known as a "senior" are those senior discounts. If you're not in the habit of asking about them, do it. You may be surprised by how much you can save.

Here's another tip: Gather information before you make a purchase. Ask whether an item you want will be on sale soon. If you don't need it right away, it might pay to wait. By doing your homework before you shop, you'll be better able to take advantage of deals.

Don't be tempted by an offer that sounds too good to be true; chances are it might be. Never, ever be pressured into making decisions hastily. A few minutes spent asking questions and checking up on a company can save you grief in the long run.

Numerous advocacy groups and senior organizations and associations can help you save a little extra. And if you think an organization should offer a discount and it doesn't, talk to management. There's nothing wrong with being a squeaky wheel if it helps you save money.

The following lists offer a sample of the deals, discounts and freebies that are available to those who are willing to put a bit of time and effort into the search.

Knowledge and the ability to find information are critical to becoming a savvy consumer. Chances are you will feel better about your purchase if you have done all you can to get the best deal possible. These publications can help you start your research.

* Federal Citizen Information Center. The federal government is an invaluable source of information, much of it free. One of the main clearinghouses for consumer information is the Federal Citizen Information Center in Pueblo, Colo. Consumers may get answers to their questions by calling toll-free 1-888-878-3256 or by logging on to www.pueblo.gsa.gov

Here are other resources from the center: The 2005 Consumer Action Handbook (free) offers general advice on shopping for goods or services, credit, home improvements and consumer problems. It also provides addresses, telephone numbers and Web sites where you can file complaints with consumer organizations, corporations, trade associations, Better Business Bureaus and government agencies at the city, county, state and federal levels.

Consumer Information Catalog (free) lists more than 200 free and low-cost publications on topics such as cars, education, money management, food, health, housing and travel. Here's a sample (order number in parentheses): "Finding the Best Used Car" (590M); "Top Ten Ways to Make Your Health Benefits Work for You" (525M); ; "A Guide to Disability Rights Laws" (514M); "U.S. Real Property Sales List" (320M); "How to Find Medical Information" (528M); "Buying Prescription Medicines Online: A Consumer Safety Guide" (526M); "Don't Be a Victim of Loan Fraud" (609M); "Borrower's Guide to Home Loans" (595M); "Great American Home Safety Check" (603M); "Power$mart: Easy Tips to Save Money and the Planet" (573M); "Personal Financial Choices" (571M); "Planning Your Estate" (577M); "Get the Facts on Saving and Investing" (610M).

* The National Institute on Aging. If you have questions about diseases, symptoms, healthy aging, safety, etc., the institute has a brochure on the topic. Call toll-free 1-800-222-2225 or log on to www.niapublications.org

* AARP. The membership organization that advocates for older Americans has information, services and discounts for those 50 and older. Members receive AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin, with articles and tips for those nearing retirement. Articles from both are available free online, along with free booklets on health insurance, grandparenting, Medicare, financial planning, staying healthy and consumer protection. Call toll-free 1-888-687-2277 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. weekdays or log on to www.aarp.org

* Public libraries. Most public libraries offer a variety of programs, from computer classes and book discussion groups to educational lectures. If you don't have a library card, get one; it's free. Your library card allows you access to books, CDs, books on tape, videos and more. It's one of the cheapest ways to expand your horizons and have fun.

* Internet. Like them or not, computers and the Internet have forever changed the way we live. Their effects can be felt in many areas of our lives, from investing to entertainment. For those who have embraced the World Wide Web, you know it's a great tool for information. Check out www.allthingsfrugal.com for advice on saving money, coupons to print out and links to other useful sites.

* Newsletters. Some information comes with a price, such as that found in newsletters and books. But if you find what the authors say useful, it might be worth the subscription cost. Here are two newsletters that offer advice on frugal living. Bottom Line/Personal: Authorities in various fields offer advice; 29.95 per year. Sign up for free "mini" e-letters on the Web site, www.bottomlinesecrets.com or call toll-free 1-800-274-5611, 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. weekdays or 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturdays. Cheapskate Monthly: The name says it all, and it's "designed to help you stretch those dollars till they scream." $18-$24 per year. Write Cheapskate Monthly, P.O. Box 2076, Paramount, CA 90723 specify newsletter or online, call toll-free 1-800-550-3502 from noon to 8 p.m. weekdays, or log on to www.cheapskatemonthly.com

The key to finding travel deals is to do your homework before making reservations. Those with flexible schedules are more likely to find bargains at the last minute or in the offseason. If using a travel agent, check for package deals. Make sure the agency is registered with the state by calling the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services toll-free at 1-800-435-7352, and check its history with the Better Business Bureau.

* International Home Exchange Network. The exchange offers members the opportunity to swap or rent homes from other members around the country and abroad. Membership is $39.95 a year. Contact: International Home Exchange Network, 118 Flamingo Ave., Daytona Beach, FL 32118; 386 238-3633; www.homexchange.com

* Intervac USA. Another service offering a directory of thousands of homes and apartments available to swap or rent in more than 50 countries. Contact: Intervac USA, 30 Corte San Fernando, Tiburon, CA 94920; toll-free 1-800-756-4663; www.intervac.org

*Golden Age Passport. Available to citizens or permanent residents of the United States who are 62 or older, the passport is a lifetime entrance pass to national parks, monuments, historic sites, recreation areas and national wildlife refuges that charge an entrance fee. It includes any accompanying spouse and children where a per-person entrance fee is charged, any passengers in a private vehicle if the park has a per-vehicle entrance fee, and provides a 50 percent discount on federal use fees charged for facilities and services such as camping, swimming, parking, boat launching and tours. The $10 Golden Age Passport must be obtained in person at a federal area where an entrance fee is charged.

* Elderhostel. An education and travel organization for anyone over 55. Programs include meals, rooms, instruction, field trips and air fare for international travel. Contact: Elderhostel, 11 Avenue de Lafayette, Boston, MA 02111-1746; toll-free 1-877-426-8056; www.elderhostel.org

* Vacations to Go. This agency sells discount cruises. Contact: Vacations to Go, 1502 Augusta Drive, Suite 415, Houston, TX 77057; toll-free 1-800-338-4962; www.vacationstogo.com

* Free or almost free travel. Do you rumba? Are you an aerobic or yoga expert? Some cruise lines offer free or discount trips to those who can teach classes. If you have a skill or are certified in a particular area, call or write the cruise line to see if you can negotiate a deal.

* Internet. For the best prices on airline tickets, hotels or cruises, or to find last-minute deals, comparison shop at www.travelocity.com www.expedia.com www.orbitz.com www.hotwire.com and www.priceline.com Find links to other sites at www.travelandleisure.com

As medical and prescription drug costs rise, so does the need for seniors to take an active role in their health care. That means becoming informed and knowing where savings can be found.

* SHINE (Serving the Health Insurance Needs of Elders). A free, volunteer-based program that helps patients and caregivers with Medicare and other health insurance issues. Call the toll-free Senior Helpline at 1-800-963-5337.

* Sunshine for Seniors. A prescription assistance program for seniors that provides information on free and low-cost prescription drug programs and eligibility requirements and assists with the application process. Call the toll-free Senior Helpline at 1-800-963-5337.

* AARP. This membership organization for ages 50 and older offers a variety of supplemental health insurance. Call toll-free 1-888-687-2277; www.aarp.org

* Neighborly Pharmacy. This Neighborly Care Network program offers prescription drugs below market price. Next-day delivery is available for Pinellas County residents; delivery for out-of-county residents is by mail. 1015 Omaha Circle, Palm Harbor, FL 34683; (727) 289-5030; fax (727) 289-5031. You can also contact the Sunshine Center, 330 Fifth St. N, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. Call (727) 892-5781 or fax (727) 892-5783.

* Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening Program. A nationwide program that pays for visits to a doctor for a Pap test and mammogram screening for eligible, low-income women ages 50 to 64. If a test is positive and further treatment is required, the program qualifies the patient for Medicaid within 24 hours. 727 824-6917 in Pinellas, (813) 979-6771 in Hillsborough and (727) 816-1100 in Pasco, Hernando and Citrus. You can also log on to www.doh.state.fl.us/family/chronicdisease This Web site also has information on diabetes, heart attack and stroke, nutrition/obesity, physical activity and tobacco. Call your local health department for information on classes.

* National Institutes of Health. The NIH has information on all things related to health, including a section on senior health. See also its list of health organizations nationwide, with their toll-free phone numbers. Call the main telephone number at 301 496-4000; get toll-free NIH telephone numbers at www.nih.gov/health/infoline.htm

* Food and Drug Administration. Another source of free information. Check out the following brochures, written in conjunction with the Council on Family Health: "Be an Active Member of Your Health Care Team" and "Medicines and You: A Guide for Older Adults." Call toll-free 1-888-463-6332 or go online to www.fda.gov

There is generally no need to pay full price for many consumer goods. They key is knowing where and when to shop.

* Club card memberships. Many supermarkets now offer membership cards that can help consumers save money.

* Seasonal sale shopping. Plan for next year's holidays by stocking up after the holidays have passed. Buy your clothes, on sale, at the end of the season. You may not be clad in the latest fashion, but you certainly won't overpay for clothing and accessories that become quickly dated. For a list of what goes on sale when, see www.allthingsfrugal.com

* Coupons. Using manufacturer and store coupons is another way to save, but don't spend money just to use a coupon. Make sure you need the product. Coupons are just about everywhere these days. Here are some online sources: www.valpak.com offers based on location, www.ecoupons.com www.couponmountain.com www.dealcatcher.com www.coolsavings.com www.smartsource.com www.couponsnow.com

* Rain checks. Get rain checks for items that are advertised for sale but sold out. Make sure to ask when or if they expire.

* Consignment, thrift and charity stores. Those with time to shop shouldn't overlook these stores for great savings. Merchandise changes frequently, so if you're looking for something specific, shop often.

* www.overstock.com One of the best Web sites for finding discounted, brand name products.

* Attractions. Many area attractions offer discounts for Florida residents and/or seniors. Some, such as Busch Gardens in Tampa, require that discounted tickets be purchased online, with resident identification shown at the gate. To get a good price, call or go to the Web site before heading out. Ask about AAA and AARP discounts.

* Eating out. To save money, go for lunch rather than dinner. Take advantage of early bird and birthday specials.

* Movies and entertainment. Ask for a senior discount. Going to earlier shows can save money, too.

The adult education classes offered by the public school system, community colleges, senior centers and others can be an inexpensive way to learn a new skill or make friends. Call the schools and education centers in the phone book and ask about adult education or "life enrichment" classes. Don't overlook clubs, hospitals and senior centers. Here are places to start:

* Adult & Community Education. 2222 N Tampa St., Tampa, FL 33602; (813) 276-5654, ext. 236. Classes in woodworking, stained glass, conversational languages, photography and computer skills are offered at 15 centers. Call for fees and class schedules.

* University of South Florida. The Senior Citizen Tuition Waiver Program allows Florida residents 60 and older to take credit courses without paying tuition, in most cases, at USF's Tampa, St. Petersburg, Sarasota and Lakeland campuses. Call (813) 974-8036 in Tampa; (941) 359-4200 in Sarasota; (863) 667-7026 in Lakeland; and (727) 553-4142 in St. Petersburg. The USF Rath Senior CoNEXTions and Education Center in Bartow provides resources, referrals to services and classes for seniors. Call (863) 533-5925.

* St. Petersburg College. SPC's 10 learning sites throughout Pinellas County offer noncredit courses through its lifelong learning program in a variety of subjects, from foreign languages and golf to basic computer skills and how to buy and sell on eBay. Florida residents 60 and older can take credit courses for free as space is available. Call 727 341-4441 (noncredit courses) (727) 341-4772 (credit courses); www.spcollege.edu

* Pasco-Hernando Community College. Main campus, 10230 Ridge Road, New Port Richey, 727 816-3259; campuses also in Dade City and Brooksville; www.pasco-hernandocc.com

* Central Florida Community College Citrus County Campus, 3800 S Lecanto Highway, Lecanto; 352 746-6721, ext. 6110; www.gocfcc.com

* Eckerd College. 4200 54th Ave. S, St. Petersburg. The Senior College offers a variety of "life enrichment" experiences - all the things you wanted to do or learn when you were working but couldn't. There are trips, lectures and classes in St. Petersburg, Palm Harbor and Largo. Call for fees and class schedules; discounts are available for Senior College members. A membership is $59 a year. Call 727 864-7600; www.eckerd.edu/seniorcollege The college also has an onsite Elderhostel program. Call (727) 864-8444; www.eckerd.edu/elderhostel

Managing finances can become particularly important for seniors who must stretch fixed retirement incomes to cover rising costs. Check out these resources for advice:

* AARP Tax-Aide. Administered with the cooperation of the IRS, trained volunteers help older low- and middle-income Americans file their taxes. File this away for next year, since the service is available only Feb. 1 through April 15; www.aarp.com toll-free 1-888-687-2277.

* Unclaimed property. Check with the Florida Department of Financial Services' Bureau of Unclaimed Property to see whether any of the more than $1-billion in unclaimed funds and property belongs to you. Unclaimed property is any financial asset that has not been claimed by the owner, from funds in dormant accounts to the contents of safe deposit boxes. Call toll-free 1-888-258-2253; www.fltreasurehunt.org See also the links to the unclaimed property Web sites of other states. Also see www.unclaimed.org

* Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance. Published by the U.S. Treasury Department, this guide provides a detailed listing of federal assistance programs and the agencies responsible for their administration. Look for it in most large public libraries.

* Money Smart financial education program. Offered by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp., this interactive Web-based program, available in English and Spanish and also on CD-ROM, helps seniors and others develop money management skills. Classroom versions are also offered. Call toll-free 1-877-275-3342; www.fdic.gov click on "consumers".

Clipping coupons, eating early or presenting your ID to receive a senior discount are not the only ways to save money. You may have to try a few new approaches to stretch your dollars.

* County extension services. Funded by the counties and state through the University of Florida, the extension service offers educational programs in environmental horticulture, financial management, nutrition, housing and home environment. Check the phone book under the government (county) listings.

* Discount haircuts, manicures. These and other beauty treatments are often offered at cosmetology schools. Look in the Yellow Pages under "Beauty Schools."

* Home energy checkups. Check with your electric company for free or low-cost checkups.

* Fishing license. Free for seniors 65 and older; a license may be obtained from any tax collector's office upon proof of age and residency. * Cell phones. Designated for 911 calls only, free cell phones are available in some counties through the Area Agency on Aging. Call the senior helpline at toll-free 1-800-861-8111 in Pinellas and Pasco. In Hillsborough, call the local police department or the Sheriff's Office and ask for the SALT (Seniors and Law Enforcement Together) Council representative. In Citrus and Hernando counties, contact the Sheriff's Office.

* Product testing and opinion research. If you want free products or the opportunity to enter your name into drawings, companies often need product testers or people willing to answer marketing questionnaires. Be aware that reputable marketing and opinion research companies never require payment to "opt in." Most research is conducted online. Go to www.mra-net.org for a list of companies looking for consumer input.

* Do-it-yourself clinics. Learn skills that save money at clinics offered by major home improvement stores.

*U-pick farms. Save on produce by picking your own.

* Emergency energy assistance for Pinellas County seniors. Eligible residents 60 and older who are in danger of having their power shut off can receive assistance through this program. Call Annie Shaw in Clearwater, (727) 464-8400; or Ann Eicher in St. Petersburg, (727) 582-7781.

Make a "game" of bargain hunting, like MaryLou Gustin does. And if you think before you buy, you're bound to come up with a few ways to save.

* Bartering. Try resurrecting the practice of our ancestors, who often traded goods or services instead of using money. Are you a retired bookkeeper in need of lawn service? Then consider bartering your expertise for someone else's. Ask, ask, ask. You get the idea. Just be aware that there can be tax consequences.

* Co-ops. Co-ops can be a good way to use the purchasing power of many to benefit everyone. Food co-ops are the most common. Form your own by getting together with other like-minded individuals and pool your dollars to save money by buying in bulk.

* Volunteering. A good way to meet people, feel useful, give back and stay active, volunteering can also provide financial benefits in the form of free or low-cost entertainment. Volunteers at area museums, theaters and concert halls have opportunities to catch shows and performances for free.

- Nancy Paradis can be reached at paradis@sptimes.com

Finding a deal is no bargain if you get burned in the process. Here are ways to spot red flags and avoid making costly mistakes:

* If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

* Pressure to make a hurried decision because the deal is good for a limited time is usually a sign to walk away.

* Check out companies with the Better Business Bureau or consumer protection agencies. In Pinellas, call (727) 464-6200; Hillsborough, (813) 903-3430; and Pasco, (727) 535-5757. * Brand-name products sold at ridiculously low prices are often counterfeit. Buying them can be illegal.

* Buying inexpensive products of inferior quality may save money in the short term, but it can cost more for repairs and replacements in the long run.

* Avoid making impulse purchases.

* Don't spend money to save money on products or services that you don't use or need.

* Be careful with online offers. Once a Web site vanishes it can be impossible to track down refund information.

* Cash-only payments can be suspect. Paying by credit card offers the most protection.

* Be careful when dealing with foreign retailers, who generally are beyond the reach of U.S. law enforcement.

* Steer clear of get-rich-quick schemes, which usually benefit only the seller.

* You have not won a foreign lottery. No one has. Not only is playing them illegal, but chances are you will be relieved of a lot of money in fees for empty promises.

* Check prices before you buy, not after.

[Last modified April 25, 2005, 10:34:48]