It’s Holiday Season! Is Your Budget Ready?

According to a 2021 forecast from Deloitte, U.S. consumers will spend up to 9% more this holiday season compared to last year. Since holiday season spending doesn’t include just gifting, it’s essential to set your budget now.

Eight tips to start the New Year

You may likely find yourself spending extra on food, decorations, holiday travel, and more. Don’t let the holiday season take a toll on your wallet by confidently planning your spending with a budget. Here are eight tips to help you start the New Year holiday debt-free from holiday spending:

1. Save ahead of the holiday season and utilize your bank’s automatic transfers to set up a holiday savings account.
2. Don’t wait until the last minute, as rushing may lead to overspending. Take the stress out of holiday shopping and start crossing off items on your gift list as soon as possible.
3. Keep an eye out for everyday price cuts instead of holding out for Black Friday or Cyber Monday. Many stores will offer discounted items ahead of these one-day sales.
4. If you plan to use credit, consider using a credit card that offers cashback or rewards. You may gain some additional benefits to help lower the cost of spending.
5. When shopping for specific items, don’t settle for the first price tag you see. Research the item online to see if you can find a lower price elsewhere or utilize a select store’s price match.
6. Consider buying an older version of the big-ticket item you desire. Last year’s edition may save you money as retailers discount big-ticket items at the end of the year to make room for newer models.
7. When planning your holiday shopping, write down everyone you’d like to buy gifts for and assign a reasonable dollar amount to each. Planning creates a blueprint to follow for your shopping and helps keep your spending on track with your budget.
8. Brainstorm a list of gifts you could potentially make yourself. Making gifts will help you to save and show the recipient you’ve invested your time and effort into their gift!

Consult a Professional

Need help developing a strategy for future goals or retirement savings? Your financial professional can help. Contact them before the year ends to start 2022 off with a plan.

SWG1927309-1121c The sources used to prepare this material are believed to be true, accurate and reliable, but are not guaranteed. This information is provided as general information and is not intended to be specific financial or tax guidance. When you access a link you are leaving our website and assume total responsibility for your use of the website you are linking to. We make no representation as to the completeness or accuracy of information provided at this website. Nor is the company liable for any direct or indirect technical or system issues or any consequences arising out of your access to or your use of third-party technologies, websites, information and programs made available through this website.

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