Every dollar you spend is a dollar you won't be saving or investing. Yes, you'll get another paycheck soon. But that particular dollar is gone forever. Here are a number of ways you may choose to cut spending.

Use your checking account One of the best tools for controlling spending is a checking account. It gives you an easy way to track your spending and keep tabs on how much you have left. It also saves you:

• check-cashing fees at currency exchanges
• the cost of money orders to pay routine bills
• ATM fees

Open an account Ideally, you'd like a checking account with no charges or monthly fees. Such accounts, however, often require a minimum balance of $100 to $500. If you can't maintain a minimum balance, open an account that charges low fees - then move up to free checking as soon as you can.

Keep accurate records Use the check register of your checkbook to track the checks you've written and how much money you have left. Save your ATM withdrawal receipts and record them as well. Also, be sure to record any transactions you make over the Internet. This will help you avoid penalties for going under your minimum balance or bouncing a check.

Balance your checkbook Balance your checkbook every month by comparing your check register with your monthly statement. This will help you find any mistakes you or the bank may have made. Banks do sometimes make mistakes. Store your canceled checks and bank statements in a safe place. These records come in handy at income tax time, and can save you money by proving that you paid disputed bills.

Stop impulse buying Impulse buying is one of the easiest ways to throw away money on things you don't really need. Here are some ways to regain control.

Make a list Make a list before you go shopping, then try to stick to it. Ads, store displays and coupons will try to entice you to buy things that aren't on your list. Use your list to help you resist.

Shop when you need to Shop when you need something, NOT for fun or to cheer yourself up. That's when you're most prone to impulse buying and bad shopping judgment.

You're the boss Before making any sizeable purchase, leave the store to think it over. If the salesperson has been using pressure tactics, don't go back. Pressure tactics include statements like "It's the last one in stock." "If you buy one right now, I'll give you an additional discount." "This is a once-in-a-lifetime deal."

Is there an alternative? Is there a less expensive alternative? Frequently, you can save by buying a less-expensive model. You can also buy just about any quality item second-hand. Check the classifieds in your local newspaper, or use the Internet.

Buy, rent or borrow  Consider renting or borrowing instead of buying. For major purchases, such as a snow blower, lawn tractor, etc., ask yourself if you will use it enough to justify owning it.