Be a Holiday Hero!

Given the slowing economy, rising energy costs and challenges many are facing with managing current obligations, you’ll need to pay close attention to the usual advice for keeping Holiday Shopping under control. That is……

Set a budget and stick to it!
Make a list and check it twice (this doesn’t just apply to Santa)
Don’t create debt you can’t manage (plan to repay in 3 months)
Trim your list before you trim the tree – identify what expenses you can cut and which gifts you can eliminate

Now that the basics are done, let’s look at ways that you can be a Holiday Hero this year. Consider opting for gifts that are:
H– HELPFUL. Select gifts that satisfy a need in a way that’s helpful, convenient and valued. Good examples are gift cards for gas or groceries, prepaid calling cards, dry cleaning services, cell phone with prepaid contract, help resolve an issue by paying an overdue bill, buying school books, performing a service, etc.
E– EXPANDABLE or EXTENDABLE. Take advantage of the many special holiday gift sets and two-for-one options that you can re-package to expand your giving or consider monthly arrangements that will allow you to spread out your giving (manicures for the next 3 months; “auto-ship” products that lock in the special low price).
R– Resist temptation. Some short term decisions, like opening additional unnecessary credit card accounts to save 15% on purchases, may have a long term impact. Also, think twice when using your credit cards during the season to make sure you can pay for purchases in 3 months and that you are always guarding against identity theft.
O– OPENS DOORS or CREATE OPPORTUNITIES. Deposit to a 529 College Savings Account, US Savings Bonds, supplies for a crafter, etc.

So….enjoy the season, but don’t be blinded by the lights. Make your holidays happy and your gifts memorable.

Recursos del consumidor

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