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Any suggestions on keeping my holiday
spending under control?
November and December are months of special dinners with
family and friends, parties, and exchanging of gifts. These
good times lead to higher-than-usual family expenses.
Unplanned or over-enthusiastic holiday spending can
create financial troubles, especially in January when the
bills arrive. Follow these steps to avoid the holiday
splurge urge.
- Estimate holiday expenses, including travel, special
meals, charitable donations, phone calls, gifts, and
greeting cards. List the people you usually buy gifts for,
and this year's gift ideas.
- How much can you afford to take out of income, from
savings, and how much can afford to put on credit cards?
- Set realistic limits. Remember, it is the thought that
counts, not the price tag.
- Shop early, take advantage of sales, and avoid impulse
buys.
- Keep track of the costs and know what bills will be
arriving.
- Control your spending, lower financial stress and
enjoy the season.
Written by:
Sandra McKinnon, Family Financial Education Specialist,
University of Missouri-Extension
Cynthia E. Crawford, Ph.D., Family Financial Education Specialist, University of Missouri-Extension
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Last update: Wednesday, April 19, 2006
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