A study from badcredit.org found 61% of parents would rather go into debt than disappoint their families.
Stretching your dollar make "cents!" Take advantage of any and all discounts or cashback and rewards.
Double dip on deductions by signing up for loyalty programs plus using a credit card that pays you back.
If not, use a simple hack that consumer expert Andrea Woroch doesn't shop without.
"Definitely want to download the store app wherever you're shopping, because this could show you in store deals that you may have missed. Maybe there's a digital coupon you can clip to scan at checkout," Woroch said.
Retailers reward members and followers. Use social media to like follow and share your favorite stores. You'll get promo code, and early access to deals which will drop online and in store throughout the season of spending.
"Which could be 40% off items like this crock pot that I have right here," she said.
If your are in store, check the online price. If it's less, ask for a price match.
Start early to spread out purchases across paychecks so you don't max out your plastic.
Half of us shoppers will choose "buy now pay later" options which allow you to pay for purchases over time according to PayPal.
It's offering 20% cash back on any BNPL purchase between Nov. 17 to Dec. 8, and 5% back through the rest of the year. That's just free money!
Before you begin, take this wisdom from Credit Karma: Plan, budget and set expectations.
"I love being able to sit down and say hey I can only spend $100 this year. I can't afford to make these purchases. Why don't we do something different. Maybe it's doing a limit, homemade gifts, or experiences," Woroch said. "Figure out a way to navigate the holidays, you want to enjoy them and not go in to the new year saddled with debt."
The holidays are supposed to be this joyous time with family and friends it can be stressful, you don't want to poison the well.
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