By Staff
It is so easy to just swipe that charge card and carry off your purchase.
The bad news comes when there isn't enough money to pay the regular bills, let alone the additional charges which mounted up before the holidays.
Interest added to the initial amount, even if the item was on sale, can turn the bargain into a burden.
This holiday season live within a budget.
Everyone wants to participate and get that wonderful feeling when you give gifts, but the cost doesn't really increase the good feeling.
Some of the best gifts can be simple and inexpensive or even homemade.
Time spent crafting a gift is most appreciated and whenever the item is looked at or used, the maker is remembered.
Estimated numbers indicate families will spend between $600 and $800 this year on Christmas presents.
To help keep within your budget, here are a few tips to follow:
Make a list and stick to it. Have a maximum you will spend.
If you use your plastic, be careful of the interest if you can't pay it off right away.
Be careful of buying too many things for yourself. You are worth it, but this isn't a good time to add to your list.
Think about gifts which can be made, such as printing a photo and putting it in an inexpensive frame.