Here are a few smart things you can do to save money.  (1)     Contribute to a retirement plan.  Contributions to all but a Roth IRA or Roth 401-K will save you money on your current year tax liability.  But it's still a good idea to contribute to a Roth, because that saves you money on taxes in future years.  For an overview of retirement plans and maximum contributions click the link below. Retirement Plans   (2)     Establish a cafeteria plan.  A cafeteria plan is a great way to save money on health insurance premiums, out of pocket medical expenses and dependent care costs for both the employer and the employee.  For more information click below. Cafeteria Plan   (3)     Pay off your mortgage faster.  This is another great way to save money.  If you are willing to make one extra mortgage payment per year, your 30 year loan will be paid off in half the time!  If you are paid on a bi-weekly schedule, it's the easiest thing in the world, just pay half your mortgage payment each pay period.  (Almost every mortgage company can set this up for you.)  If you aren't paid by-weekly, then just pay some extra principle with every monthly payment.  Click on the button below to see how your numbers work out.  You will be absolutely amazed at how much interest you can save over the life of your loan. Calculators   (3)     Save on utilities.  We've been using 100% wind power here at The Harding Group since the middle of 2009.  We don't have any equipment installed, we just buy wind power from a broker.  I love that it's environmentally friendly, and I really love that it's quite a bit cheaper than BGE.  We have wind power at home too.  We get it from Clean Currents.