Maybe you've recently gotten the pink slip at work -- or you fear you might be next. Given the nation's economic uncertainty, many of the newly unemployed have few prospects, so financially speaking, cutting back on lattes isn't going to get them through lean times.

Here are the latest, smartest strategies to help people in distress spend wisely:

Old thinking: Cut back on eating out. New thinking: Cut back on everything. If it doesn't feed you, keep you insured or keep a roof over your head, you can live without it, at least for now.

Shop around for home, auto and life insurance to find a better deal. Drop your cable package and selected media subscriptions; instead, watch TV on free sites such as hulu.com, and get your news online, too. Cancel your home phone and use your cell instead.

However, keep the right tools for job searching, such as high-speed Internet.

If you're really struggling, it's time to rethink bigger-ticket items. Maybe you don't need a second car, or perhaps it's time to sell the house if you're facing foreclosure.

Old thinking: Tapping retirement funds should be a last resort. New thinking: If you're forced to do so, tap the Roth IRA first. Only 39 percent of Americans have enough cash stashed to cover even three months, according to bankrate.com. When you're short, make sure you've looked everywhere before you touch your retirement funds.

If you have a Roth IRA, you

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can take out the amount you contributed penalty- and tax-free, because it was post-tax money to begin with. If you have a traditional IRA, you'll most likely owe taxes on any money you withdraw. And if you're younger than 59½, you'll pay a 10 percent early distribution fee. Be sure to withdraw enough to cover the taxes you'll owe in April, the 10 percent penalty and your actual cash needs.

You can avoid the early distribution penalty if you pull out funds to pay health insurance premiums after receiving unemployment benefits for at least 12 weeks, or for higher-education expenses. If you have a 401(k), roll it into a traditional IRA. You'll be taking a big hit. Be sure you really need the money.

Old thinking: Put your credit cards away -- period. New thinking: Get a zero percent-interest card and use it responsibly . If you truly need credit to pay for essentials, look for low-interest cards on bankrate.com. Many offer six to 12 months at zero percent.

On another matter: To narrow down the options for a good salad dressing, the Good Housekeeping Research Institute tested one of the most popular flavors, balsamic vinaigrette. Volunteers dipped into 16 samples, both regular and reduced-calorie. The winner was 365 Organic Balsamic Vinaigrette ($3.49 for 16 oz), which features "rich, natural flavors" of balsamic and red wine vinegars, garlic and fresh black pepper. Second was Annie's Naturals Balsamic Vinaigrette ($3.39 for 8 oz). With hints of honey and stone-ground mustard, this "well-balanced" and "creamy" dressing is perfect for a sweeter salad companion.