- 1). Live with roommates so you can split housing costs or live with family members and pay what you can in rent. Housing is a major issue for people earning minimum wage. According to Poverty in America, to afford most housing in the United States you must earn at least $17.84 per hour (as of 2010). Living with others can help alleviate this cost.
- 2). Apply for assistance programs offered by the state. Food assistance benefits, for example, will help your family afford groceries. Medicaid and health insurance assistance offered to low income families can help your family handle medical bills. If you do not qualify for health assistance, consider taking advantage of services offered at your local health department. These services typically are cheaper than seeing a private-sector doctor and are sometimes free since they are typically charged on a sliding fee scale that is based on your income.
- 3). Create a strict budget. Calculate the number of hours you work and your monthly net pay. Net pay represents any money left over after paying rent, utilities and other bills. Factor in any assistance money you receive. Save most of the leftover money and avoid unnecessary spending.
- 4). Use public transportation or carpool whenever possible. This will avoid having to buy a car if you do not own one and it will help save you money on fuel and maintenance costs even if you already have a car. If close enough to your job, consider biking to work. This not only will provide you with exercise, but it's also free.
- 5). Cut costs whenever possible by using coupons, purchasing sale items or buying cheaper products. While unnecessary spending should be kept to a minimum, it may be necessary to splurge every once in a while. Plan for personal purchases, holidays and birthdays in advance and use layaway options.
- 6). Entertain yourself and your family by looking for free events in your local community. Often, especially around the holidays, communities provide free entertainment which often includes free outdoor concerts and movies. You can also become a member at your local library and take advantage of borrowing books, movies and CDs, and having free access to Internet service.
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