Save Money As a Full Time Writer
Have you decided to become a full-time writer? Before you make your big break, it can be hard to stay on top of your finances. This article will help you save money.
Steps
- Use your local library. You may be surprised by the amount of free resources available at your local library. Besides print books, magazines, and audiotapes, you can also access a variety of books online. It is the best way to keep up with changes in the writing field.
- Curb your cafe spending. Grabbing a latte for $3.50 in the morning may not seem that bad. Do it every day and you will be spending $75/month. That ends up being $840/year! Instead, make yourself some coffee at home and visit your favorite cafe as a special treat once a week. If you need a break from writing at home, take a cup of coffee with you in a travel mug and go to your local library or a park instead, where you can write for free.
- Get digital magazines for free. If you are looking to explore new and unfamiliar magazines, check out their digital versions for free online. New magazines often give out their premier issues for free to gain new readership. Take advantage of this, and see if the magazine is really one you are interested in!
- Sign up for Mint.com. Mint.com is free personal finance software that tracks your spending online. Being able to see where your money goes can help deter you from overspending.
- Save your receipts! If you are a full-time writer, you will be able to deduct items such as magazines, books, classes, computers, printers, and software. Consult a tax professional for more information.
- Think up creative ways to make money. This could mean selling some books, clothes, furniture, and even jewelry that you do not need or use anymore. You may also consider taking a part-time job to make a few extra dollars when you are starting out or if things are slow.
Tips
- Network with other writers online or at writers groups to find out what they do to keep their head above water during particularly slow times.
- Switch to digital journal-keeping to save money on notebooks
