Keep Your Wallet Happy This Holiday Season

Don’t let the financial burden of this holiday season last until next summer! Use the steps below to help make the most of your holiday spending:

Make a Budget – Set a realistic amount of how much you can spend this holiday season. Remember to include food, gifts, transportation, and clothing costs.

Shop with a List – Make a list of who you’re buying for and set an amount for each person. List gift ideas before you go shopping and try to stick to your list.

Pay with Cash – Don’t shop with money you don’t have and leave your credit cards at home. If you must shop with a credit card, use a low-interest card and use it sparingly!

Comparison Shop – Before you shop, check catalogs and the internet and compare prices on gifts you plan to buy.

Consider Alternative Gifts – Gifts don’t have to be expensive to be meaningful. Consider making meals, providing baked goods for family and friends, spending time with a friend doing something you both enjoy, or volunteering your time to babysit or dogsit.