Not only does modern technology make your life simpler than in years past, it can also make it easy for you to save Money. We’ve collected five relatively new bits of technology that can help you cut back on expenses and learn money management techniques while still engaging in your favorite pastimes. Many of these are free services, and any time you don’t have to spend money to gain access to a great product, we consider that a win in the “money saving” department.

1. Skype

Skype (and other similar VoIP services) enables you to call, chat, and even engage in a video conference with your friends and family members living in a different city or country. No longer do you have to pay for expensive long distance phone calls in order to stay in touch with the people that matter most to you. And if you’re a business owner, you don’t have to pay airfare and related travel expenses in order to conduct an important business meeting.

Skype can be installed free of charge on your Computer, tablet, and/or smartphone of choice, and your calls, text messages and video conferences, are also free. Skype users simply need to pay a small fee if they want to use this program to call a mobile phone or landline.

2. Freeware Computer Programs

It is now possible to set up any computer without paying a dime for a Windows operating system, Microsoft Office, or other programs you typically associate with operating your computer. Though it’s been around for many years, Linux offers a completely free operating system that includes office applications. If you have a Google account (which is free), you have easy access to a range of programs to meet your word processing, spreadsheet, and database needs, as well as the ability to share files with others easily. There are also a wide range of freeware programs online that make it easy for you to accomplish tasks ranging from splitting and/or merging PDF documents to organizing your image and music files.

3. Dropbox

Dropbox is a cloud storage system that enables individuals and businesses to easily share large files. This money saving system can handle all file storage types and offers fast download and upload speeds. It is also ideal for those who want to back up their computer files so that they are not lost if the computer crashes or malfunctions. The first 2GB of data are free upon signup, though you can buy additional storage space for the Low Cost of $9.99 a month.

Individuals and businesses that use this program can Save Money because they no longer have to invest in an expensive external hard drive or a collection of USB sticks. Business partners no longer have to meet in person in order to collaborate on a project; additionally, a company can work with experts located in another city, state, or country, enabling the business to get the help it needs without being limited to hiring someone in the same city or town.

4. Cable and DVD Alternatives

Cable costs a great deal of money, as does renting a DVD, especially if you’re an avid media consumer. Thankfully, you can easily cut back on these expenses by using services like Hulu or Netflix. Both services have a very low monthly subscription fee, enabling you to watch the TV shows and movies you enjoy at a very low cost. Those who would rather watch the content on the big screen instead of a computer simply need to hook up the laptop to the TV. Alternatively, you can also utilize Google Chromecast or Apple TV to watch movies, TV shows, and/or the news on your laptop or smartphone.

5. Money Management Websites

Budgeting takes time and work; however, the process is now simpler than ever for those who use a free money management website to keep track of net worth, expenditures, savings and more. There are a number of these sites to choose from, but the best known options are Mint, Wesabe, MoneyStrands, and Buxfer. These sites do not process monetary transactions of any sort and use a high level of security to ensure that your financial information is safe at all times. Most of these money management websites are made for individual use, but they can also be utilized by a small business. Some of them not only keep track of finances, but they also offer community forums where individuals can share advice and money saving tips.

When many people think of new technology, only the latest and often most expensive electronic gadgets come to mind. However, thanks to recent technological advances, it’s easy to save money on a regular basis by using helpful products available either for free or at a very low cost so that your life can be simpler and more enjoyable than ever before.

Sources:

http://www.realsimple.com/work-life/technology/ways-to-save-money-00100000061513/page13.html  

http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-505144_162-51369257/money-management-the-best-online-personal-finance-sites/