Plan For A Cash-Only Holiday

Do you often find yourself still paying off credit card debt long after the holidays? Keeping spending under control can be difficult at this time of year, which is why using cash — not credit — is so important. Here are a few tips.

BE EFFICIENT

To help keep you focused, list people you're shopping for and the amount you intend to spend. Include ideas for gifts.

USE CASH OR A DEBIT CARD

This makes you accountable for staying on budget. You won't be able to spend more than you have in your wallet or in your bank account.

AVOID THE MALL

Colorful displays, new gift ideas and sales might tempt you to buy items that aren't on your list. Your favorite stores and online vendors have websites where you can order specific items without the distractions found in local stores, which tend to trigger impulse spending.