On The Road Again

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I’m moving…again.  It’s turning into an annual tradition; but not the kind you anticipate like pumpkin pie at Thanksgiving, it’s more like the dreaded fruit cake you always get from a neighbor at Christmas and don’t know what to do with it besides turn it into a paperweight.  I loathe the actual moving process.  Plus, I’ve really enjoyed my time in my current location and will miss it greatly.  However, after all the boxes are packed, loaded, delivered, and put away, the fun of moving to a new area begins!  New cultures, new people, new restaurants and tons of exploration are some of the best parts of living in a new place and that’s what I look forward to most!

Anyway, last year when I moved I offered 6 Tips for Moving on a Budget.  This year I have learned a few more tricks and would like to share them with you! 

1. Get Your Moving Expenses Covered.  If you are moving for a new job, try to negotiate with the employer for them to either give you a stipend for moving, cover the moving costs directly, or reimburse you for the move.  Make this separate from any salary or signing bonus you may be offered.  Moving is expensive and not easy.  Employers understand and some are willing to help.  
2. Check the Tax Code.  If your move meets a few criteria, you may qualify to deduct your moving expenses when it comes time to pay your taxes.  While you’ll have to pay those expenses upfront, it might pay off at tax time.  Here is the Internal Revenue Service’s Publication on the 2013 Moving Expenses Tax Deduction. 
3. Use Pinterest.  Pinterest has great tips and tricks for moving, and most will help you save money.  Like using soap for nail holes, keeping your clothes on hangers, and putting Styrofoam plates between dishes to keep from breaking.

Hopefully, these three new tips and the six old ones will make your move a less stressful and more affordable process!