When times are tough, finding emergency financial assistance Oklahoma and saving money without much sacrifice means the difference between just getting by and actually getting ahead. The good news is there’re plenty of ways to up your money in the Sooner State. Whether you want to reduce significant bills like housing and transportation or just trim a couple dollars here and there on things like dining and entertainment, saving money in Oklahoma is absolutely doable if you make a plan and stick to it.
With everything from scoring deals on utilities to financial, this blog post discusses lots of helpful tips to boost your savings without feeling deprived. We even have some financial assistance programs we’re going to explore in case of emergencies. Saving money never felt so good.
Budgeting Tips to Save Money in Oklahoma
Step 1 to saving money in Oklahoma is setting a realistic budget. Track your income and expenses to know where your money is really going each month. Find expenses to reduce, such as dining or entertainment. Create limits for different budget categories like groceries, gas, and utilities. Stick to your budget by paying with cash or debit instead of credit cards.
If possible, picking up a side hustle is a great way to some earn extra spending money in Oklahoma. Drive for a ridesharing service in your spare time. Do market research studies. Rent out a spare room in your home on Airbnb. Sell unwanted items online. Do freelance work like writing, programming, or online tutoring. Every amount helps when it comes to saving money.
Taking Advantage of Free and Low-Cost Things to Do in Oklahoma
Oklahoma has so much natural beauty to offer, and plenty of free or low-cost activities to experience it.
State Parks
Do a hike at a state park like Robbers Cave or Beavers Bend. That fresh air and scenery could do you good. If you’re feeling adventurous, go camping under the stars – Oklahoma’s night skies are some of the darkest and clearest in the country.
Wildlife Watching
You could also go wildlife watching. Pack a picnic lunch, grab some binoculars, and head to a wildlife refuge like Tishomingo or Sequoyah to spot birds, deer, and other animals in their natural habitat. The Wichita Mountains are home to herds of bison, too.
Cultural Museums
If culture is calling your name, visit one of Oklahoma’s museums like Oklahoma City’s Museum of Art or the Cherokee National Museum. Find Native American art, Western art, and more.
Free Concerts
For entertainment, go to a concert at the Myriad Botanical Gardens in central Oklahoma city, the Tulsa Botanic Garden, or the Chickasaw Cultural Center. In the summer, many towns have weekly festivals, fairs, and rodeos you can enjoy at no cost.
Strategies For Cutting Monthly Expenses and Saving on Utilities
Saving money on utilities is one of the easiest ways to reduce your monthly expenses in Oklahoma.
- Pay attention to your thermostat settings and adjust as needed for the season. During summer, raise the temperature to 78 degrees or higher when you’re away from home. In the winter, lower the heat to 65 degrees or less when sleeping or away. This can significantly reduce your heating and cooling bills over time.
- Turn off your lights, electronics and appliances when not in use. Leaving things like TVs, gaming consoles and computers in sleep or standby mode still draw power and cost you money. Make it a habit to turn them completely off when you’re done using them.
- Look for ways to improve the energy efficiency of your home. Add weather-stripping around doors and windows, increase attic insulation, use Energy Star rated appliances. Many utility companies offer free energy audits and rebates for making recommended improvements.
- Consider using a programmable thermostat. These automatically adjust the temperature based on the time of day and whether anyone is home. You can often save 10% a year on heating and 15% on cooling by using a programmable thermostat.
- Ask about budget billing for your utilities. This averages your bills over the past year and charges the same amount each month, making it easier to budget. Any overages or credits are reconciled at the end of the year.
Shopping Smart: Getting Groceries and Essentials on a Budget
Shopping for groceries and household essentials is one area where you can save in Oklahoma. Here’re some tips to trim away at your costs:
Shop store brand items.
Go for brand or less expensive options whenever possible. Many times there is no difference, but it ends up costing significantly less. Store brands for things like rice, beans, oats and canned goods could save you up to 50% or more.
Use coupons or your app.
Check sites like Coupons.com or your favorite store’s app for digital coupons you can load to your account. Some stores also double the value of certain coupons. Pair coupons with weekly ads to maximize savings.
Buy in-season produce.
In-season fruits and vegetables are usually cheaper since they’re readily available. Shop weekly ads to find the best deals on produce that’s in season. Or check sites like SeasonalFoodGuide.org to find what’s typically available in your area each month.
Avoid pre-cut or packaged fruits and veggies.
Whole foods are almost always cheaper than pre-cut or packaged versions. Buy whole produce and do the actual cutting yourself. You’re going to save money and the food stays fresh longer.
Buy larger sizes or in bulk when possible.
Larger sizes or bulk options are typically a better value. Find family packs of meat, larger bags of rice and beans, and bigger containers of yogurt or oats. Just properly store any leftovers to avoid waste.
Emergency Government Assistance Programs to Help Save Money in Oklahoma
Oklahoma has programs in place to help residents in need of financial assistance during emergencies. These government aid programs can help supplement your income and allow you to save money for essential expenses.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
SNAP, formerly known as food stamps, provides monthly benefits for groceries. Benefits are distributed through an electronic benefits transfer (EBT) card that can be used at most grocery stores and farmers markets. Income requirements apply.
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
If you’re in need of emergency shelter or food, TANF provides temporary payment assistance for families with children. Benefits may include help with essential expenses like emergency housing, transportation, food, or childcare. TANF aims to help families become self-sufficient. Eligibility depends on income and family size.
Medicaid
Medicaid provides health coverage for low-income individuals including children, pregnant women, the disabled, elderly, and parents of dependent children. Medicaid covers essential medical services like hospital stays, vaccinations, nursing home care and more. Eligibility is based on income.
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
LIHEAP helps low-income households pay for home energy costs, including electricity, gas, and weatherization. Benefits are distributed in the form of utility assistance or weatherization services. LIHEAP aims to make energy costs more affordable and homes more energy efficient. Income eligibility criteria apply.
These government programs have helped many Oklahoma families through financial hardships. Don’t hesitate to apply if you find yourself in need of emergency assistance. The application process can often be handled online, by phone, by phone, or in person at your local Department of Human Services office. With the support of these aid programs, you can get back on your feet during tough times.
EASY Wireless’ FREE Phone Plan
If you’re reading this blog, you’re likely in Oklahoma facing some sort of financial struggle. Don’t worry — it happens all the time. Luckily, EASY Wireless is here to help!
Partnering with programs such as Lifeline & ACP, we’re offering FREE phones with data to eligible individuals just like yourself. Whether you need to keep in touch with friends & family or you want to just save money on your current plan, here’s what we’re offering:
EASY Wireless Unlimited Plan
- FREE Unlimited Data
- FREE Unlimited Talk
- FREE Unlimited Text
- FREE SIM Card Kit and Activation
- Choose to Keep Your Number or Get a New One
To start with EASY Wireless, apply online by clicking the below:
Start Saving Today!
Start Saving Today!
Or you can come to one of the EASY Wireless’s retail stores, where our customer service agent will help you apply for your benefits.
