20 good tips for saving money
Who are the savings tips suitable for?
Whether it's reducing your energy costs, optimizing household spending or using resources wisely, the following money-saving tips can help you improve your finances and lifestyle.
Each of these measures can make a small but significant difference to your budget. Take a look at our list and you may discover a tip or two that will help you.
Requirements for the savings tips
There are indeed prerequisites: In order for you to benefit noticeably from one or more savings tips in the long term, you need to start "with the first step" and keep going. Master the tip you have set yourself - we wish you lots of fun and success in implementing it!
Who are the savings tips suitable for?
Whether it's reducing your energy costs, optimizing household spending or using resources wisely, the following money-saving tips can help you improve your finances and lifestyle.
Each of these measures can make a small but significant difference to your budget. Take a look at our list and you may discover a tip or two that will help you.
Requirements for the savings tips
There are indeed prerequisites: In order for you to benefit noticeably from one or more savings tips in the long term, you need to start "with the first step" and keep going. Master the tip you have set yourself - we wish you lots of fun and success in implementing it!
20 good tips for saving money in the home
- Improve energy efficiency
Invest in energy-saving light bulbs and appliances. This will reduce electricity costs in the long term. - Switch off power guzzlers
Disconnect electronic devices completely from the power supply when they are not in use to avoid standby costs. - Reduce water consumption
Install water-saving shower heads and fittings to reduce water consumption. - Adjust room temperature
Lower the room temperature by one degree. This can save up to 6% in heating costs. - Keep radiators clear
Make sure that furniture or curtains do not cover the radiators to ensure efficient heat distribution. - Ventilate correctly
You probably know this: Shock ventilation instead of tilting windows saves heating energy. Do you also follow this rule? - Check insulation
Check windows and doors for draughts and seal them if necessary. - Check utility bill
Check your service charge statement for discrepancies. It costs nothing to ask. - Apply for a certificate of eligibility for housing
If you are on a low income, check whether you are entitled to a housing entitlement certificate, which gives you access to cheaper housing. - Shopping together
Form purchasing groups with neighbors for larger purchases to take advantage of volume discounts. - Second-hand furniture
Use second-hand stores or online platforms for used furniture. - DIY projects (Do It Yourself projects)Carry out minor repairs and renovations yourself instead of hiring tradesmen. Easier said than done? Maybe you have a nice neighbor who could help instead?
- Check rent subsidies
Find out about possible rent subsidies or Housing benefit. - Sharing living space
Consider whether you can take in a roommate to share costs. - Find cheap insurance
Compare household contents and liability insurance to find favorable rates. - Use funding programs
Find out about local subsidy programs for renovations or energy-efficient refurbishments. - Income-related tariffs
Check whether you are entitled to income-related tariffs with suppliers. - Use neighborhood help
Exchange services with neighbors, such as childcare, gardening and help with cell phones and the Internet. Take a look at nebenan.de to find out more. - Grow your own plants
Grow your own herbs and vegetables to save money. - Search for cheap Internet and telephone providers
Compare Internet and telephone tariffs regularly
INFOBOX - Your good source in Cologne:
Central Housing Benefit Office of the City of Cologne
Tel: 0221 / 221-0
Email: poststelle-wohngeld@stadt-koeln.de
Address:
Lindenthal district town hall
Aachener Straße 220
50931 Cologne
Opening hours:
Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and by appointment.
Helpful pages on the subject of housing benefit
Frequently asked questions: Saving
The requirements for receiving housing benefit depend on various factors, including income, rental costs and household size. In principle, income must be below certain limits and housing costs must be reasonable. As the exact requirements and amount of housing benefit depend on the individual situation, it is advisable to contact the relevant housing benefit office for specific information.
The following documents are usually required to check a housing benefit claim:
- Housing benefit application
- Proof of income of all household members (e.g. payslips, pension statements)
- Rental agreement or proof of encumbrance for owners
- Account statements
- Proof of the amount of ancillary costs
- If required, further documents, e.g. proof of maintenance obligations or certificate of severe disability
The exact list of required documents may vary depending on the situation. It is therefore advisable to contact the relevant housing benefit office directly to find out which documents are required in each individual case.
If you have any further questions about housing benefit, in particular about current regulations and details, you can find comprehensive information on the website of the Federal Ministry of Housing, Urban Development and Building. There you will find answers to frequently asked questions about the Housing Benefit Plus Act and other relevant topics. Please visit this page for detailed information.
If you have any further questions about housing benefit, in particular about current regulations and details, you can find comprehensive information on the website of the Federal Ministry of Housing, Urban Development and Building. There you will find answers to frequently asked questions about the Housing Benefit Plus Act and other relevant topics. Please visit this page for detailed information.
