with your daughter around, going to the LOWEST level of cable will leave you with some TV options unless Rabbit ears work well where you are.. in which case, that is more then enough...
I truly agree on the budget suggestions- they are a lifesaver.. and don't just list monthly bills, but things that are due once a quarter, once every 6 months, and once a year too, and put an estimate of what they are. Then break them into monthly payments you make into a savings account or second checking account, so when the big bills come due you have the $$ for them...
credit cards- keep them but don't use them.. pay them off BEFORE you start stashing any $$ for yourself if you can because the interest on them is so high.. get a low interest card and transfer the balances to it so you can pay it off faster!!! definitely track all your spending, even the little cash stuff that you might not even consider- like an allowance or lunch money or milk $ for your daughter...
and don't let the deadbeat get away with not paying- he owes you that money... and you need it to live on- you are seperated and divorcing because he wanted out- not because you did, so milk him for what he owes you... why should you be fighting even harder to support yourself and his daughter just because he's an ass!!
as to ways to cut spending- a home phoen and only use the cell for emergencies and reduce the minutes on it to what will really be used.. or go in with someone and get a second phone on their plan... go for a cheap home phone, get price comparisons that serves your needs- if you never make LD calls, then get a phone that doesn't include them, if you rarely make calls at all, get one that doesn't include unlimited local either..
also- look into bundling packages, or changing providers to take advantage of intro prices to bring costs of services down.. and that cable Bill- if its in his name and you aren't authorized- leave it alone until its turned off, he owes it because you tried to change it... and let him and your attorney know that, then put what you do want with the company into your name.. also.. some companies offer things like lower speed internet packages at good deals, and things like that too...
You will find something out there that works for you.. good luck (and btw- if you are feeling bad taking $$ from him, remember the reason you are paying all these bills, and for childcare, etc is his leaving!)
Amie
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Dietetics Student (anticipating RD exam in Aug 2010)
IBS - A
Dairy Allergic
Fructose and MSG intollerant
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