Dial for Dollars and Save a Bundle

Car insurance: If it's been a while since you have reviewed your car insurance policy, call your agent and ask how you can get a reduction. If you have an emergency fund, you may want to increase the deductible, or if your car is getting older, you may be able to drop the collision insurance. If higher gas prices have encouraged you to use your car less, you may qualify for a discount.

All other insurance: You should be able to call and negotiate a better price on any insurance, such as homeowners' or renters'. The Internet has made it easy for consumers to compare prices and get quotes that can be used as leverage to get a better rate. If you find a rate from a competitor that is lower, it's in the insurance agent's interest to work with you to find discounts.