8 Helpful Budgeting Tips for the New Year

8 Helpful Budgeting Tips for the New Year (1)Happy New Year!

The Holidays often call for spending extra money on gifts and feasts. I sure hope your wallets have recovered!

Budgets are tight for many.  Why not try to make your budget look a little better this year? Here are some tips to consider:

  1. Apply for Energy Assistance.  In Hennepin County- call CAPSH (Community Action Partnership of Suburban Hennepin) 952-930-3541, for an application.  Or find the application on line at: www.capsh.org.
  2. If your income is limited and you are over 60, you might qualify for Food Support.  Apply online at: applymn.dhs.mn.gov, or call 612-596-1300.
  3. Can you eliminate cable TV or internet service?  Some folks find it easy to get the Library to work on the computer and internet.
  4. Re-evaluate your housing costs.  You may qualify for subsidized apartment. Generally, waiting lists are long, so get on a wait list early.
  5. People with low incomes could qualify for help paying for telephone service.  Contact your phone company for an application.
  6. If you need personal care or housekeeping services in your home, but can’t afford them, there are programs through Hennepin County Aging and Disability Services that can help you: 612-348-4500.
  7. Senior Community Services has Medicare Health Insurance Counselors to guide you in choosing appropriate coverage from Medicare, Medicare Supplements, and Part D plans, and in resolving insurance claims. Call 952-541-1019 Ext. #307.
  8. Senior Community Services’ Household  and Outside Maintenance for Elderly program provides affordable homemaking, maintenance, and chore services that help seniors continue to live independently in their homes. Call 952-746-4046 for more information.

As always, I am happy to help you navigate these programs. Call me!

Krystal Wiebusch, LSW

952-746-4028