It took me 10 years to pay down my debt, and now I'm completely debt free. I have one credit card now that I use and pay off monthly. If I can't pay for it within a month, I simply don't buy it.

I've noticed, however, that complacency is creeping into my spending money. Each week I take money out to pay for things like groceries, gasoline, haircuts, dog groomer, etc. I've noticed I'm getting a little lazy about my budgeting lately.

I was recently approached for a freelance writing gig for a prepaid debit card by MasterCard called Mango Money. I strongly believe that I have to be a believer of a product before I can write about it. And, it is perfect timing!

I've now used the card for 1.5 months and I'm noticing where I've been letting my budget slip. Instead of using a weekly cash allowance, I load it onto my debit card.

When the money is gone, it's gone. Your transaction will not go through if there is no money on the card! It is keeping me honest to say the least.

It's an affordable option to consider.

All my best,
Kim