It’s safe to say that no matter how good the economy is, frugality is never out of fashion. Families and individuals are always looking for ways to cut costs. Americans are especially adept at creating and finding ways to stretch the dollar. With the American economy in a constant state of flux, we have become experts at recycling, re-using, and re-figuring.

Here are a few ways to save money without resorting to drastic measures:

• Switching to a New Phone Service – Phone companies are constantly upgrading and reconfiguring their services. If you’ve been locked into a time commitment contract, you may have to wait until your contract has expired or you may face a rather heavy fee for dropping out early. If, however, you were lucky enough to buy into a non-contractual agreement, switching to another phone service could be a great way to save. One phone service provider offers a no-contract agreement with a healthy 1000 minutes and texts per month. The monthly price for that is $30.00. The only real caveat is having to renew it monthly, a small price to pay.

• Pumping Gas at the Gas Station – The best time to fill up is in the morning. The cooler temperature allows the gas to flow freer; You get “more gas” for your money. Another tip is to refrain from holding the handle tighter for a faster flow. Maintaining a slower flow keeps the flow and the pump’s computer accountability more in sync. At a faster rate, the computer counter doesn’t accurately reflect the actual amount pumped.

• Coupons – A few decades ago, shopping with coupons was done in one way only; You had to buy the Sunday newspaper and cut the coupons out. Today, there are so many websites that offer free coupons. An astute shopper can save 50% or more simply by acquiring grocery coupons online. And, grocery items are only the tip of the iceberg. There are coupons available for just about any product imaginable. Manufacturers recognize the value of coupons as an attractant to shoppers and have come out full force in their support of that concept.