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A couple weeks ago we talked about tracking your spending with Mint.  I tried it for the first time in January and I absolutely love it.  That was also the article I have received the most feedback on with several of you trying it and emailing me about how much you like it.  If you haven’t tried it you, head over to www.mint.com and give it a try, it’s free!

Here is a look at what I spent in January, listed from highest charge to lowest:

- $715 on rent- Actual rent is $665 which is split four ways amongst all four roommates.  Courtney and I split the $50 pet fee.  And I deduct 1/4 of the electric cost off what one of my roommates pays me since he pays the electric bill.  So the total I spent on rent and electricity in January was about $217.

- $369 on auto and transportation- This was split up among the following costs:

     - Car payment- $300

     - $61 on fuel

     - $8 on car wash

- $255 on student loans

- $204 on food and dining- This was split up among the following costs:

     - $108 on groceries

     - $55 on dining out

     - $39 on alcohol

     - $2 on fast food

- $192 on cable and internet- This was again divided four ways with the other three reimbursing me 3/4 the cost.  Total I spent was $48.

- $89 on my new computer

- $6 on magazines at WalMart

- $75 on Christmas gift for family member

- $30 on dog food

- $6 on hosting this site

There you have it.  Every penny I spent in the month of January (not really every penny, as this doesn’t include the payments I made on my credit card).

As I have said before, the first step to cleaning up your finances and saving money is figuring out where your money goes.  Whether you use Mint, software like Quicken, or simply a pen and notepad, track your spending.  You will be shocked to learn where your money is actually going each month.

Please continue sound any personal finance related questions, suggestions and tips to centsabilitytowealth@gmail.com