Preparing for the Holiday Season
In 2013, the average American household was projected to spend approximately $740 during the holiday shopping season, according to a report by Gallup.com. With the gift-buying season rapidly approaching, where will you turn to obtain the cash needed to fund these extra expenses?
Almost half of Ohioans will be looking for ways to make extra money this holiday season, according to the Ohio Credit Union League’s 2014 Mid-Year Consumer Survey. More than 14% intend to get a seasonal job to make extra money. Another 13% plan to work overtime at their current place of employment, and 12% will sell belongings online or in places such as yard sales. About 4% plan to conduct personal services like house cleaning, babysitting, pet-sitting, and tutoring.
In addition to earning new money, proper money management can be useful in the months leading up to the holiday season.
• Being prepared starts with planning. If you don’t already have a budget, make one. Knowing where your money goes each month will help you to know where cutbacks can be made for holiday spending. Try visiting MoneyandStuff.info for free tips, lessons, and budget worksheets.
• Set personal goals for your holiday spending. Make a list of all the people you will need to buy for, with target spending amounts for each individual.
• Start early. The more time you give yourself to shop, the more bargain-conscious you can afford to be. There are great deals to be had before the shopping season officially begins.
• Consider your knowledge base. Check with former places of employment to see if they need part-time help. Former employers might find this appealing since you’re already trained.
Consumers can also look to their credit union as a resource for additional funds. Many credit unions offer holiday club accounts, which allow members to save a little bit at a time, all year long.
Another option could be to borrow against your savings. The rate you would pay back on what you borrow would be 3% above earnings rate on the account securing the loan. This option would be considerably lower than a regular credit card. We also offer a Visa Platinum Card with no annual fee and it has a competitive rate of 9.9%.
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