7 Ways to Spread Holiday Cheer Without Stretching Your Savings

The American Bankers’ Association (ABA) offers consumer spending tips for the holiday season

With consumer sentiment the highest it’s been since the recession, shoppers are expected to open their wallets a bit wider this year. Will holiday spending leave shoppers in the red?   Not if they plan wisely and use some common sense tips from the American Bankers Association.

“This is the most festive time of year, but consumers don’t have to end up with a holiday hangover when the bills arrive,” said Gov. Frank Keating, CEO of the American Bankers Association. “Simple planning can make the season more care-free and enjoyable when you know you’re in control of your budget.”

To help consumers spend within their means and enjoy a financially happy New Year, the American Bankers Association offers the following tips:

• Develop a budget. Before you start shopping, develop a realistic budget. Consider your income, subtract your normal monthly expenses, and then add any savings to whatever cash is left over. If you need to use your credit card, think about what you can afford to pay back in January.  Don’t forget costs beyond gifts, like postage, gift wrap, decorations, greeting cards, food, travel and charitable contributions.
• Make a list and check it twice. Keep your gift list limited to family and close friends, noting how much you want to spend on each.
• Spend carefully. Avoid shopping while rushed or under pressure, which can lead to overspending.  Make sure to comparison shop online first, or download an “app” that lets you compare prices before you buy anything in a store.  Before you head to the cashier (or online “checkout”), make sure your purchase is within the budget you set.
• Avoid traps. Finding a spectacular sale on something you’ve been wanting can easily throw you off course.  Stay strong and stick to your budget.  And don’t apply for store credit cards you don’t need just to get a one-time discount.
• Use credit wisely. Limit the use of credit for holiday spending.  If you must use credit, use only one card, preferably the one with the lowest interest rate, and leave the rest at home.  Pick a date when you can pay off your holiday credit card bills, and commit to paying off the balance by that time.  Be sure to check statements for unauthorized charges and report them immediately.
• Save your receipts. Not only will you need them for possible returns, you’ll need them to keep track of what you’ve spent and to compare with your credit card statement.  Knowing how much you spent will help you plan for next year, too.
• Be creative. Consider simple, hand-made gifts instead of store-bought ones.  Send greeting cards or handwritten notes of appreciation for those outside of your list.  Home-baked goods, simple crafts or hand-made gift certificates for your time or talents are often less expensive and more appreciated that what you would buy at a mall or big-box store.

Banks are committed to helping consumers responsibly handle credit and save for the future.  Many offer savings plans such as F&M Bank’s Christmas Club that let you set aside money throughout the year for your holiday spending.  If you don’t have one already, make it a New Year’s resolution to open a savings account for next year!

The American Bankers Association represents banks of all sizes and charters and is the voice for the nation’s $14 trillion banking industry and its two million employees.  Learn more at aba.com.