It may feel early to think about the holidays, but your wallet will thank you if you start now.
Instead of relying on credit cards in November and December, consider creating a holiday savings plan today.
Estimate how much you typically spend on:
Gifts
Travel
Decorations
Meals
Charitable giving
Divide that amount by the number of weeks remaining before the holidays, and you’ll have a manageable weekly savings goal.
Even setting aside a small amount each week can reduce financial stress later in the year. Experts also recommend redirecting unexpected cash—such as rewards, rebates, or side-income earnings—toward holiday savings and automating transfers whenever
possible.
The holidays should be about making memories—not carrying debt into the new year.
Starting early allows you to enjoy the season with greater confidence and peace of mind.
