Tips for a Happy Holiday Budget
1. Review what you spent last year.
Take a look at your checking, savings, and credit card statements. Did you stay within budget, or did you end up getting overextended? Think about what you could cut out to stay within your limits this year, especially considering inflation and higher interest rates.2. Account for every category.
List out your spending categories and give yourself a limit for each one. Better yet, cut out spending on some categories entirely.- Holiday gifts
- Gift wrap
- Greeting cards and postage
- Decorations
- Food
- Clothing
- Travel, including airfare, hotels, and gas
3. Shorten your list.
In the season of giving, it can be hard to hold back. Would your friends and family understand? Considering the upheaval of the last two years, they may be relieved if you start the conversation. It may be easier for everyone to try one of these money-savers:- Draw names to exchange one gift per person
- Instead of exchanging gifts, make small donations in each other’s names
- Plan a potluck or cookie exchange instead of dining out
- Host a holiday clothing or decorations swap to freshen up your festivities
United is always here to help with a full range of financial services, including savings accounts. Stop by your local branch or schedule an appointment online.
