[custom_frame_left][/custom_frame_left]It’s that time of year again! Kids start making their Christmas lists and parents start wondering how they’re going to pay for it. With the economy still shaky, you may be feeling overwhelmed by your Christmas shopping list. But there are still some great ideas for saving money on your holiday shopping.
Extra Savings
It seems like there are always advice columns this time of year suggesting ways you can save money on your holiday shopping. I’ve compiled a short list here of some of the most practical suggestions I found on the web:
- Reduce the number of times you eat out or buy coffee. Put that extra money towards gifts!
- Shop sales. Black Friday has come and gone, but retailers will still be offering steep discounts on select items. Check online and in newspaper ads before you make your purchases.
- Skip the things that are “expected” of you. Christmas cards, fancy wrapping, and shiny decorations are nice, but if your budget is tight they aren’t a necessity.
- Give the gift of time. If you know that other family members or friends are also looking for ways to save cash this Christmas, suggest service gifts or gifts of time. You can all volunteer at a homeless shelter, go Christmas caroling, or have a cookie baking party. The best part of the holidays is spending time with those we love!
SECU Can Help
If you need some additional help funding your holiday shopping this year, State Employees Credit Union has a variety of ways to help.
Holiday Loans
SECU offers holiday loans that will help you fund your holiday shopping. We offer traditional loans with competitive rates, low payments, and quick approval. We also offer you the option of refinancing your auto loan. When you refinance your auto loan from another institution with SECU, we can give you up to $250 cash. Plus, you won’t have to make a payment until January 2013.
Gift Cards and Credit Cards
You can purchase a Credit Union Mastercard gift card from SECU. They are accepted everywhere Mastercard is accepted and will allow your loved ones to purchase exactly what they want.
SECU also offers the SECU Mastercard Credit Card. With low interest rates, no annual fee, and no cash advance fee, the SECU Mastercard will let you make quick work of your shopping list.