You can be one question away from saving money. If you don't ask for discounts, you're missing opportunities to hang on to more of your hard-earned cash. It can be tough to muster up the courage, but it gets easier once you've done it a few times. Be honest, undemanding and prepared for rejection. Many places offer unadvertised student, senior, military and employer discounts or will reduce the price if you buy in bulk, merchandise is slightly flawed, or if you're a frequent and good customer. Where have you been successful asking for a discount?

♦Favorite brands: Call, e-mail, or write to your favorite product manufacturers. Be sincere in complimenting them on their products, and ask whether they offer any coupons.

♦Grocery stores: Talk to a manager, and ask when they mark down meats or have reduced-price produce or bakery items.

♦Secondhand shopping: If you shop thrift stores, ask a manager whether they have a preset sales schedule.

♦Medical services: Ask family doctors, dentists, pharmacies or veterinarians whether they'll give a discount for visits if you pay cash.

♦Employer: Ask human resources whether there are company perks, such as discounts to local museums, ballparks or movie theaters. Some companies offer discounted cell-phone service plans, too.

♦Banks: Ask for free checks.