Making Every Dollar Count | University of California, Cooperative Extension

Are you in control of your money? Or is your money in control of you? The Making Every Dollar Count program helps you learn how to make your money work for you. The program gives you the tools you need to help you gain control of your money. It may just be the answer you’ve been looking for.

Making Every Dollar Count is made up of eight lessons
(click on titles for descriptions):

1. Setting Goals

   - Identify your personal values and beliefs
   - Practice goal setting
   - Learn how to reach your goals

2. Making Choices

- Learn the difference between your needs and your wants
- Use the Choice-Maker Tool

3. Stretch Your Dollars

   - Discover your personal options to stretch your dollar
   - Identify local community resources that can help your family
   - Learn about the Earned Income Tax Credit

4. Budgeting Basics

   - Discover the power of a personal spending plan
   - Create a spending plan for your family
   - Learn simple steps to reduce your expenses

5. Paying Bills on Time

   - Learn practical ways to organize your bills
   - Set up a bill payment system that works for you
   - Learn how to talk to creditors

6. When You Can't Pay Cash

   - Learn the pitfalls of buy-now, pay-later options
   - Order a free copy of your credit report
   - Learn the steps to rebuild your good credit

7. Saving Money on Food

- Eat better and spend less on food
- Compare the costs of home cooking to eating out

8. Food Advertising

- Learn how advertising affects food costs
- Learn when coupons can save you money

If you’re ready to get started, click on one of the green buttons below: