Tis the season to save money whenever possible. Actually that never goes out of style. Here are some ways I’ve recently saved dollars.
Shared Work Program
This program may be available in your state, and is offered through the Department of Economic Security (DES). Business owners can apply, and if approved, will have up to 40% of their employee payroll paid by the state. It is basically partial unemployment. A full-time (40 hour/week) employee would work reduced hours (24 hour/week) and claim 2 days/week of unemployment. Employees do not have to look for work elsewhere, and aside from the initial sign-up form, do not have to complete weekly unemployment reports.
American Express
Turn your Blue Sky points into gift cards. Two $50 gift cards are heading my way, and all it cost me were points. Earn 1 point for every dollar you spend. $25 gift cards available starting at 3,250 points.
Google Shopping
Find the best price for gifts. To access Google Shopping, go to http://www.google.com/products. Type in the gift you are looking for, press enter, and the results return immediately. You can refine your search by price or ratings.
Automatic Renewal
Pay attention to automatic renewal notices. If you no longer want/need the product, cancel your membership. While on the American Express site, I noticed a $79.00 fee from Amazon had been applied to my account. It was for their Premier Shipping, a program I signed up for two Christmases ago. While it suited my needs in the past, it doesn’t suit them now. The fee was 100% refundable. I also contacted Proactiv and Consumer Reports and canceled those automatic renewals.
Mac
Apple is offering 12-months interest free financing on new Macs, plus $100 rebate when you purchase a Mac and a printer. Printers start at $99.95. Qualify for the rebate through January 18, 2010. Rumor has it Apple will be offering huge discounts on Black Friday.
Coupon Codes
Before finalizing your online shopping orders, search for coupon codes. Google the name of the E-tailer plus the word coupon. Using this technique, I received free shipping from Snapfish, a savings of $6.11.
• Do you have a money-saving tip to share?
• Have you started Christmas shopping?
• How will you spend Black Friday?
Special thanks to my friend Marian for informing me of the free-printer offer.
After hearing about 
Some of Alice’s prices can’t be beat, not even by the bulk/discount store! So I’ve loaded up my cart, processed my order, and am waiting for delivery.
