Tips for a Debt-Free and Stress-Free Holiday Season

As the summer heat beats down, it may seem strange to start thinking about the holiday season. However, according to recent statistics, 25% of Americans just finished paying off last year’s holiday spending this month. If you want to avoid the stress of holiday debt this year, now is the perfect time to start planning and saving.

Here are some tips to help you have a debt-free and stress-free holiday season:

1. Save a weekly amount with automated withdrawals:
– Set up a separate savings account specifically for holiday spending.
– Consider setting up automatic withdrawals of $50 weekly into your Holiday Savings account. By December, you could have $1,200 saved up for gifts, food, and other holiday expenses.

2. Look for great gifts now:
– Take advantage of summer sales to purchase gifts like camping gear, kayaks, or that special grill your loved one has been eyeing.
– Just make sure to hide them away until the holidays to keep the surprise intact.

3. Confirm travel plans now:
– If you plan on visiting family during the holidays, finalize your travel dates early to snag better deals on airfare and accommodations.
– Stock up on guest essentials like towels and toiletries now to avoid last-minute expenses in December.

4. Have a digital garage sale:
– Use online platforms like Facebook Marketplace, ebay, and Poshmark to sell items you no longer need.
– Deposit your earnings into your Holiday Savings account to boost your holiday fund.

For more tips and information, visit Cornerstone Community Financial Credit Union at ccfinancial.com. With locations in metro Detroit, including Auburn Hills, Center Line, and Troy, they can help you kickstart your holiday savings plan today.