Christmas Planning

Start planning for next Christmas now!!!

Any little bit of money you start to save now for next Christmas will be helpful. When you pay cash for Christmas gifts, it will give some tremendous gratification. A little discipline is what is necessary to get the job done.

1. Determine how much money you want to spend on Christmas. Create a budget that will help you accomplish that goal. If possible have it automatically taken out of your check. (See article by Toni McCarty on Taking Charge of Your Finances.)

2. Saving $12.50 a week until Thanksgiving will give you $600 cash to spend.
Six hundred dollars may not seem like a lot to spend for some people, but it is to others. A little cash is better than no cash.

3. Get an extra job.
It may be something you do once a month, once a week or more. An extra job will help in other areas besides Christmas.

4. Taken advantage of after Christmas sales.
Many items can be purchased from 50-90% off. Purchase wrapping paper, bows, non-perishable stocking stuffers, Christmas decorations and cards..Buy winter clothing items as they go on sale in January and February. For example, if you just had a baby or know someone who did, buy a 12 month outfit on sale now. For adults, purchase something basic or classic. Keep these items in a plastic bin and a list of what has been purchased.

5. Look for sales during the year.
Make a list of people to buy gifts for and as you are shopping, look for sale items that someone you know would like.

6. Put extra money away.
Every time you save money on something or have extra money after spending, put it away. For example, if you have a food budget and don’t spend all of it for the week, save the extra money. When someone gives you money, tithe and put some of it in savings. Keep a container for change and at the end of everyday put your change in it.

REMEMBER THAT EVERY LITTLE BIT HELPS!!!!