Make a plan now to start saving, so you can enjoy the holidays without breaking the bank.

Before we begin to transition from beaches and flip-flops to pumpkin spice and falling leaves, it’s a great time to start planning for the holiday season now. Here are a few planning tips that can help ensure the holidays don’t cause more debt than memories.

1. Start by creating your holiday budget

2. Make a list and check it twice

   • Creating a list of people that you want to buy gifts for can help you stay within your budget. 

3. Open a Holiday Savings Share

   • Did you know that we offer special purpose savings accounts? You can set up as many special purpose savings shares as you would like, with no cost or fees. You can open a holiday savings share right through online/mobile banking, or you can contact a friendly representative to help you through this today.

4. Get in the habit of saving

   • Set aside a portion of your weekly or bi-weekly paycheck in your holiday savings account. You may also want to consider setting up a direct deposit to automatically move some of your paycheck to your holiday savings account. In doing so, you will be less likely to tap on these funds for any purpose other than what it is meant for.

5. Look for low-rate Holiday Loans

   • Our low-rate holiday loan is typically offered at the end of the year and can help you plan ahead, stick to your budget, and typically offers a much lower interest rate than most credit cards. By borrowing only what you need, you’ll remain within your budget limits, and you’ll most likely pay this type of loan off much faster as they usually offer a short 1-year term.

Live Smarter

If you’re looking for other ways to creatively save money this holiday season check out this article. These recommendations can help you manage the stress of planning and budgeting expenses, and help you save time for the joy of family this year. If you’d like assistance with your holiday planning, you can call 315-735-8571 to speak to one of our friendly Financial Service Representatives or you can schedule an appointment here.

Bring This Session To A Live Setting

If you would like to schedule our Community Educator for a seminar or workshop for any Financial Friday educational topic, please email your request to FinancialEducation@fsource.org

Interested in learning more? There are also additional resources which have been created specifically to help you gain financial freedom. Feel free to use these anytime.