''America Saves'' week, which started Feb. 24 and ends Sunday, brings together more than 1,000 government agencies, corporations and nonprofit groups with the goal of increasing consumer understanding of the need to save, whether for emergencies or to make the down payment on a home, to educate the kids and to finance retirement.

Utah participated in the nationwide campaign with "Utah Saves Week," which featured training to help Utahns with debt and saving.

Jerilyn Stowe, of United Way, said that even though economists are recommending spending to boost the economy, Utahns need to learn how to save.

"The best thing we can do for the economy is to be more fiscally responsible," said Stowe.

But, she said, consumers can save money while spending it. "For the things you really need, shop around to make sure you're getting the best deals - especially with items like car insurance."

''This year, the focus is on making saving automatic,'' said Nancy Register, associate director of the Consumer Federation of America in Washington, D.C., and national director of the America Saves campaign.

Details of the national campaign - which has adjunct campaigns for the military, Latinos and blacks - can be found at www.americasavesweek.org.

''It's an opportunity to shine a bright spotlight on savings behavior and create 'to-dos' for the rest of the year," Register said.

Experts say that putting savings on automatic makes it easier.

Utah's Stowe said that those living paycheck to paycheck can still take steps toward financial well being; it does not require expensive investments, but small things like checking your credit report and paying bills on time are important.

Throughout the year, Utah Saves will offer other finance classes about identity theft, home ownership and housing, and even classes about preparing inexpensive meals.

1. Bring your lunch to work.

2. Limit small expenses, like trips to Starbucks, or 7-Eleven for drinks. That three to four dollars a day really adds up.

3. Shop around for the best deal. This isn't limited to retail sales, but also things like insurance and medications.

4. Use debit cards instead of credit cards. Interest and fees will cost you in the long run.

5. Don't make impulse buys on expensive items. Think about it for a day before you buy it.

6. Check your credit score and learn how to understand it.