Baby Boomer Lifeboat   

    Tips for Comfortably Retiring on a Limited Income

How Baby Boomers can Cut Food Costs

Tips to Reduce Food Expenses

for Baby Boomers on a Fixed Income

Rising energy costs have also resulted in higher food prices.  For Baby Boomers on a fixed income, this can be especially trying.  But don't start looking at cat-food recipes yet.  There are simple ways to cut your food bills without starving:

• Make a grocery list and stick to it.  Avoid impulse buying.

• Shop around and really do use advertised grocery store coupons!

• Buy produce that is in season - it's cheaper!

• Buy lower-priced store brands instead of name brands.

• Learn to cook using less expensive basic ingredients.

• Avoid waste - Don't prepare food you already know that your spouse or family doesn't like to eat.  Maintain meal appeal through variety.

• If possible, buy in bulk at places like Costco.

• Start a garden to grow some of your own produce.

• Buy (or share) a deep freezer to take advantages of store specials on meat and other perishables.

• Save and consume leftovers.

• Use coupons and senior discounts when you eat out.  Take advantage of "early bird" specials.

• More tips.

Food Stamps

If your income falls below a certain level, you may be eligible to receive food stamps from your local, state or Federal government.  Eligibility is determined by both gross and net income criteria.  Although state-run programs are more lenient in most cases, the United States Department of Agriculture Food Stamp Program may also be an  answer for Baby Boomers on limited incomes.

Recommended Websites

• TheSimpleDollar.com - Full of tips for cutting household expenses and simple ways to manage your budget.

• HillBillyHouseWife.com - Focuses is on low-cost, home-cooking from scratch and reducing your grocery bill.

• MayasMom.com - Online discussion group focused on the preparation of low-cost meals.

• GettingFoodStamps.org - Find out if you qualify and how to get food stamps in your local area.

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