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But savings are the best buffer against a dependency on preferred cash loans, so check out these ways to save even when money's tight.

1. Housing - If you own a home and have a mortgage that's over a year old, you might consider refinancing. Rates are at all-time lows, so you could save a bundle. If you rent, think about moving to a smaller apartment or finding a roommate.
2. Automotive - Refinancing your auto loan might also save you some money. To avoid paying exorbitant gas prices, consider investing in a more fuel-efficient vehicle, think about a carpool, or take public transportation. Raising your deductibles and eliminating collision coverage (only if you drive an old car with minimal cash value) can help you save on insurance.
3. Phone - The long-distance industry is highly competitive these days, so shop around. You might also be better off just buying long-distance cards or using a cell phone when you want to make such calls.
4. Credit card debt - This is another source of savings and a potential means of avoiding preferred cash loans. Don't waste your money on paying many high-interest cards. Consolidate these debts with a balance transfer to a lower-rate card or with a debt consolidation loan.
5. Food - Buying in bulk is always more expensive in the short-term, but the long-term savings can give you just what you need to stay away from preferred cash loans. Try buying non-perishable items, such as toilet paper, canned goods, etc., in bulk. You can even go in on these items with a friend or neighbor to reduce the cost even further. Be cautious, though-if you don't consume in bulk, don't buy in bulk. Perishables especially can go bad before you can consume them.
6. Pay yourself first - It's trite but true. Make savings the first "bill" you pay each month, and you will begin to build a reservoir on which you can rely instead of preferred cash loans.