Saving Money on Postage

The Stamp Act of 1765 was one of many greivances that American colonists had with the English throne. Britain's attempts to tax paper products was one of the disputes that helped spur them to rebellion. Now I'm certainly not advocating another American Revolution. But why not try save money on postage where you can?

Here are some basic tips for saving money on postage and mail services:

• Pay your bills online. You'll save the price of a stamp for each bill you pay from your computer. If you pay ten bills per month online, you'll save $3.70.
• Use online postage instead of going to the post office and you'll save the time and cost of the trip.
• Send packages via Media Mail (also called book rate) when possible. The post office has very low rates for media items, including books, DVDs, compact discs, video tapes, film, and computer diskettes. Many people do not know to ask for this at the post office and wind up paying more than they should.
• Use email to keep in touch with friends and family. You'll eliminate postage and long distance charges.
• Whenever possible send electronic cards for birthdays and holidays. You'' save money on postage as well as the cost of the cards.
• Don't send non-essential documents overnight. The cost of sending a package overnight is usually about double the cost of sending it 2nd day delivery. If you can send it by regular mail, even better.
• Buy stamps at discount stores. I have seen stamps sold at a slight discount at some discount stores. The savings are minimal (25 cents to a dollar), but if you can save a few pennies why not?
• If you are self-employed you may be able eligible for a tax deduction for the cost of postage for business mailings. Check with your tax preparer to make sure the deduction is legitimate.