1. { Utilities and Other Extras Part of the Personal Finance Unit We Started in February Senior Advisory April 28, 2014

2.  You will be graduating soon.  It may becoming real that you will be on your own or have more responsibility.  Let’s try to think and plan ahead.  Decisions made with a little info go a long way. Seven Weeks & Counting

3.  When you rent – always ask if any utilities are included.  This can make a big difference one way or the other.  Rent might be higher for a place, but it includes water, electric and garbage.  ASK QUESTIONS! Utilities

4.  Ask your landlord for a list of companies.  Look in the local phone book.  There may be choices to shop for price – or you may be limited to one.  You may need a deposit and/or credit to open your account. Electric/Gas/Water

5.  Depending on location – you may have wood heat.  Do some research on your area to see what the average heating and A/C bills are.  You may be shocked when the first bill of the winter/summer comes. Heat & A/C

6.  This may be your cell phone or a land line.  Discuss with roommates and decide. Phone

7.  This can be costly.  Could be shared between some or all of your roommates. Internet

8.  Will you have it?  Will you share the cost?  Whose name will it go under?  Shop around! You can save money. Cable/Satellite TV

9.  Some companies will bundle your services.  AT&T – phone, cell, Direct TV & Internet  Comcast – cable, internet & phone  Research it and see what’s out there in the area to where you are moving. Bundle

10.  This is another item that can be included in rent.  Just make sure you know and budget if it’s not. Garbage

11.  Again, these could be additional costs.  Check into these before relocation.  Water can be a flat rate or by the amount used. These bills can be shocking if you don’t plan ahead and do your research. Water/Sewer

12.  http://californiarealitycheck.com/ http://californiarealitycheck.com/  Go through this expense website and do several different scenarios to see how much these things cost. Let’s Review with Reality Check