u/Local_Whereas7211

Update: First off, a huge THANKS to all of you for the great responses. They were very helpful.

Found out that both stores near me are within about a half mile of each other. Joined Costco but then got a $15 membership offer from Sam's so joined it as well.

Thanks again!

Okay, you all convinced me with the Costco thread to get a warehouse membership. Is Costco better than Sam's?

It's been many years since I was a member of either one. Think I was spending too much on "extra" items to make it worthwhile but I'm resolved to do better this time.

I'm a single-person houshold but I do have two giant-breed dogs that eat 40-50 pounds of food a month.

Thanks!

Have to give credit where credit is due. Completeted an online passport renewal application on 6/1.

Didn't pay extra for rush service nor even state that I had upcoming travel. Was told to expect the passport arounf July 19.

Got the passport in yesterday's mail--only 10 days later. Good job!

Hi, all. Planning for retirement next year. Looks like my social security and pension (both inflation-adjusted, a bit less for the pension) will cover my basic budget without the need to tap the 401k, or $500/month at most from that.

The basic budget includes a home repair/replacement fund. My home is five years old and maintenance is up to date. I'll have employer-subsidized healthcare in retirement plus Part A Medicare.

What's a rough estimate goal for a fund for emergencies when all expenses are covered by guaranteed income? I was also thinking of a fund for emergency expenses. Rough goal for that? I have about $100k in cash for those funds right now.

Hope this makes sense. Thanks for your help!

Hi, all-

I live by myself and have an uncluttered house. However, I do have too much of some things, such as clothes.

The clothes are still being used so I don't want to trash or or donate them. Don't need, for example, 6 fleece shirts when 3 would do.

Has anyone minimalized over time by attrition? That is, not buying anything new and by slowly reducing possessions as they wear out and not replacing them?