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It’s that time of year again. It’s the time of year when you eat too much and spend more money than you have, and dipping into that credit card becomes all the more tempting. Of course we all want to get our friends and relatives the perfect gift to show them how much we care, but using the credit card should not be an option, especially if you’re already in debt or are recovering from financial strain.

As a consumer focused site, we like to help you out with some money saving tips for the holidays to keep you away from using those credit cards. This is the time of the year when putting the “holiday” credit cards in a box in the closet is probably your best option.

1. Hide your credit card. If you can’t afford to pay cash for it, then you probably can’t afford it at all. Do whatever you can do to avoid using your credit card to pay for holiday gifts. It’s extremely difficult, we know, but if you’re already on the road to debt relief why dig out some deep potholes and valleys in that road? If you don’t have the money, now is not the best economical time to be spending what you don’t have.
2. Look for deals. Buying the Sunday paper might seem like a waste of money to some people, however that $1.50 could save you hundreds in coupons and sales. The coupons will be mostly for you, but the advertisements for sales in your neighborhood could save you hundreds on your holiday shopping. Be patient, but also ready to pounce when you see a good deal. And remember to always, always take the advertisement with you to the store. By taking the advertisement with you into the store you can be sure to get the right price.
   1. Keep in mind that you can always take the advertisement to another store and ask them to beat the price. This might take some patience, but it will save you money. Most retail stores will beat competitor advertised prices, so do your homework before you go out for your holiday shopping and get the best price.
   2. Don’t forget the advertisement.
3. Black Friday shopping. Most people avoid Black Sunday at all costs. The crowds and aggressive shoppers can be a bit too much for many; however the deals that you can accrue on Black Friday might make the battle worth it. If you have the courage to face the masses and get up before the sun the day after Thanksgiving, you might actually walk away with some great deals. But, like everything else, DO YOUR HOMEWORK, and read all the advertisements to be sure that you hit the right stores and get the best deals.
4. Don’t be afraid of thrift stores. If I’ve said this once, I’ve said it a million times. Thrift stores are a great find. Stores like Goodwill are great resources for amazing deals. While everything is already marked down considerable, hit these stores on their discount days to pick up holiday gifts for next to nothing! Sure, these items are used and might not be brand new, but what better way to find something with a bit of character? Looking for some new outdoor furniture, wall décor, or kids’ toys? These stores are a great place to pick up inexpensive items that are still in great condition.
5. Avoid store credit cards! This holiday season there will be hundreds of stores advertising no payments, no interest, no fees, no worries on their store cards. This is a great way to buy as much as you want for nothing, feel great about the presents that you get your family and friends, and then end up in massive debt only a few months later when the ‘no interest’ months race by. This is also a great way to end up getting nothing for anyone next holiday because you’re strapped in debt paying for last year’s gifts.
   1. Store cards are never a good idea; unless you already have the cash set aside to pay them off and are looking to build up your credit. I would never suggest getting a store card simply for holiday purchases.

The big way to stay out of debt this holiday season is to DO YOUR HOMEWORK! Seriously, take your time, be patient, and start early. The best way to avoid using your credit card on holiday purchases is to buy what you can afford. And the best way to buy what you can afford is to dig a little deeper into the newspaper, online, and thrift stores. The deals are out there, you just have to have the patience to find them. Good luck!

And don’t forget, if you do get into trouble this holiday season we are always here to help you out with no upfront fees and no hassle. Serioulsy, give us a call to find out. 1-877-386-3603