One thing that can break you -- if you aren't careful -- is trying to stay on top of all the equipment required to run an office these days. Computer, printer, scanner, copier, fax machine, postage meter -- just to name a few! However, you can save quite a bit by purchasing a multi-purpose item -- such as a "scanner/copier/printer combo." The one drawback to this type of equipment is that when one part breaks, you are without all of the components until you get the entire piece fixed. Another way to consolidate is purchase a scanner and printer and have them do double duty as a copier. Simply scan your document in and send it to the printer to create a copy.

And by installing a program such as WinFax (or one of the inexpensive "shareware" type fax programs), you can also turn your scanner and computer into a fax machine. Either scan your hard copy document -- or choose the computer file you would like to fax -- and send it through your computer modem. You will receive faxes as an email attachment -- only print them if you need to, saving paper and toner. Look for other ways to use your computer to replace a piece of equipment -- such as using an online postage printing service instead of a postage meter. Not only will you spend less on equipment, but you will need less surface space to store your many technological "gadgets" -- potentially saving money on office furniture.

Avoid A Second Phone Line

Many people feel that starting a business requires installing additional phone lines. While this might be true if you have a staff or function out of a separate business office and need a multi-line system, most home-based businesses can work their way around this. These days, a lot of entrepreneurs are choosing to use their cell phone as their business line -- giving them freedom from being tied to their desks. Just be sure that you choose a service with good coverage -- nothing worse than being in the middle of an important business call and losing your signal. Also check to see that you can get a signal inside of your office. I know that I work out of my condo -- and I have to walk outside of my building for a cell phone to work. Finally, go for a calling plan that has unlimited anytime minutes -- even if it is a bit more expensive. You will save yourself money in the long run, rather than constantly going over your minutes and running up unnecessary penalty fees.

If you aren't a part of the cell phone revolution -- or aren't comfortable completely letting go of a land-line -- check to see if your local phone service offers a "ring distinction" option. With Bellsouth, it is called the "Ringmaster" plan. Basically, it allows you to have two phone numbers on one residential phone line -- no extra installation involved. Each phone number rings differently -- usually one ring for your main line and two rings for your secondary line. You will know before you pick up the phone if it's a business or personal call, and you can generally attach a different voice mail (with different messages) to each. Best of all, devices such as fax machines can distinguish between the two lines, picking one up and ignoring the other -- so this is a great solution if you do need a separate fax line. And it costs a fraction of what a second phone line would cost.

Cutting Down On Supply Costs

Finally, there is the issue of the money you spend on office supplies -- the things you need to replenish regularly to keep your company functioning. The first rule of shopping for supplies is always look for a sale. Office supply stores like Office Depot and Office Max send out "$10 off" coupons all the time -- wait until you get one of these in the mail before you make your next run to the store. And the end of the year -- right before the cutoff for tax deductions and prior to inventory time for the stores -- you will find a number of excellent deals on larger items and products that don't normally go on sale throughout the year. Also consider shopping online -- many stores offer free shipping for orders over $50, and the lower overhead that the web offers can save you some serious money (not to mention the headache of dealing with traffic and crowds). Finally, if you have the space, try to buy in bulk. Whether you are shopping from a discount warehouse or your local office supply store, buying larger quantities can net you a tidy discount per item. Just be sure it's something you'll use large quantities of over time.

And of course, one of the best ways to cut down on your office supply expenses is to reduce, reuse, and recycle. Reuse the second blank side of printer paper for printing rough drafts and for scrap paper. Better yet, don't print a document off of your computer unless you absolutely need a hard copy -- to save on both toner and paper. Speaking of toner, you can save tremendous amounts of money by buying recycled or refilled toner cartridges -- many companies will even give you a credit toward your next purchase when you recycle your empties. Ask yourself if you really need a fresh new manila for that temporary file, or if a used one with a new label would work. Follow the old rule of the Depression era -- use it until it completely wears out. Your wallet will thank you!