Spending Your Money Wisely
By: Gerri Willis, CNN
Updated: March 24, 2009
With the highest levels of unemployment in a generation, you may be concerned about committing a lot of money to something such as a flight or a gym membership.
But some companies are taking the economic climate into account and trying to cushion a potential blow.
If worry about losing your job is causing you to pull back on spending, there are companies out there trying to ease your anxiety with some "no strings attached" deals.
Let's take a look at details of what JetBlue is calling its "Promise Program." You're entitled to a full refund if you booked a trip between February 17th and June 1st of this year and you lost your job on or after mid-February. But, you will have to put that refund request in writing 14 days before you're set to travel. And this program doesn't include corporate or group travel bookings.
Gyms are also trying to make it easier for you to join or keep your membership if you're laid off. Some YMCAs, for example, have waived sign-up fees. Membership costs may also be reduced. Check with your local branch for details.
Of course, when you're out of a job, saving money is at the top of your priority list. Here are some places to go on the Web if you want to exchange items or barter.
You can find free things on-line within your community
Post what you're looking for and you swap items with someone
There is a barter tab on the site where you can look for stuff or trade your stuff.
