The New Year marks the beginning of a new life and for most people, this is also the best time for them to avoid debts. The only problem is that it can be a bit tricky to know where and how to start in the first place.

To achieve your goal to be debt-free this 2022, here are some tips to help you to avoid debt in 2022:

1. Don’t waste food and make sure you check your cupboards and fridge for near-expiry items.
2. Before you replace any broken items, make sure you check with the local repair shop or manufacturer if you can still repair them.
3. Before you spend a large sum of money on anything, go online to know if you can buy the same thing or an alternative for a cheaper price elsewhere.
4. Purchase in bulk, whether you are in-person or online. Doing so helps you save more money, especially if you will buy non-perishable goods in bulk, such as canned goods.
5. Cancel subscriptions that you no longer want or need. See to it that you check your direct debits and bank statement in case you are still paying for something you thought you already canceled.
6. Refer to your pay slip’s tax code to ensure that you don’t pay too much income tax.
7. Ensure that you can save money by changing your mode of transportation or switching to a cheaper alternative.
8. Consider switching to a different provider to check if you can save on your utility and insurance bills.
9. Try to change your mobile plan to a sim-only or a cheaper alternative.
10. Set a monthly budget. Make sure it is realistic enough to increase your chances of sticking to it for a long time.
11. Review all of your previous bank statements to determine if you are spending your money on something you don’t need in the first place.
12. Rather than shopping for new clothes, visit some thrift stores or garage sales. If you are lucky, you might even score some pre-loved clothes, including designer or vintage items, at more reasonable prices.
13. Stay away from alcohol after the holidays. This will not only benefit your health as this can also help you save some money.
14. Plan your meals ahead of time to make sure that you buy all the ingredients you need as part of your groceries. This way, you can avoid buying more expensive deliveries or takeaways.
15. See if it will benefit you if you switch banks or change to another type of bank account.
16. Take advantage of expert debt advice available for free. There are accredited and trained advisors who sometimes offer their services at no charge to guide you on how to deal with your debt problems and avoid debt.
17. Use unwanted or unused items online.
18. Sign up for free apps, newsletters, and loyalty cards for stores you visit regularly. This will let you enjoy both loyalty schemes and regular discounts.
19. Join free exercise groups when possible, instead of choosing paid classes.