1. Have a look at your monthly bills:

Are you up to your neck in debt? Now is the time to tighten your belt and try to get a handle on the interest rates you are currently paying. Can you pay down some of your debt right away? Transfer to another, lower-rate credit card? Should you refinance your mortgage or home equity loan? Now would be the time to take care of this, not after you’ve received your pink slip. 

2. In your monthly budget what can you trim?

Stop buying those lattes every morning and save about $80 in one month. Instead of going to movies rent a DVD. You are the only one who can decide what you can and cannot live without, but these are two good examples of the latter. Cut back on your dining out and you’ll see greener in your wallet right now when you need it the most.   

3. Take care of your everyday expenses:

Be more aware of it and think twice if you really want to need that item. Now is not the time to do much shopping, take wise decisions before spending your money. Try to be more aware of where your money goes every day, every week, and do proper calculations.

4. With gas prices skyrocketing:

You should consider buying a hybrid car, or at least one that gets better mileage. Do it now, while you’re still employed. See if the dealership offers any customer incentives such as a rebate or lowered interest rate on the loan. 

5. There are various job benefits:

You are entitled to them at your workplace do you know about them? Take the time now to ask the Human Resources department what benefits you’re currently enrolled in. If you have any health insurance, make sure that you get proper physical or medical tests and make use of this benefit. Take advantage of any dental or vision coverage you may have- get those eyeglasses or contact lenses updated now or schedule a visit for a check-up at the dentist. Those co-pays are a whole lot cheaper than paying full price later.