It’s that time of the year again, and many of us are trying to scrape together the money to pay for it. Christmas can be an expensive time, but there are several things you can do to save money and have a great Christmas.
Make a List
It’s very easy to go overboard at Christmas without realising how much you’re spending. Set a budget, make a list and stick to it.
Earn Cashback
You can earn cashback on your normal spending. You can do this with cashback credit and debit cards and by using services such as Quidco and Top CashBack.
Start Saving
According to a YouGov survey, the average family spends more than £835 on Christmas. Many struggle to pay this from December’s pay packet and have to borrow. Start saving up instead and you won’t have to pay the interest on a loan.
Save Money on Food
Buying premade Christmas food it often more expensive then making it from scratch. Make mince pies, stuffing, cakes and other Christmas food yourself and they’ll taste better then the store-bought alternatives.
Look for special offers and stock up on items before Christmas instead of making an expensive last minute dash to the stores.
Not everyone needs a gift
At Christmas, many of us feel obliged to give gifts to all our friends and family. The problem is that anybody you give a present to will feel obligated to give you one; regardless if they can afford it or not. Why not have a no gift pact with some friends and family and focus on giving presents to the children.
Get a 0% credit cards
Inevitably some people will need to borrow money this Christmas. If you do, why not take advantage of a 0% credit card? Many offer 0% introductory periods on purchases. Providing you clear the balance before this period, you won’t pay any interest on the goods you buy.
Christmas is a time when many families get into debt trying to fund it. We see many people coming to us for help at the beginning of the year after splurging at Christmas.
If you are struggling with debt issues, whether these are business or personal debts, The Debt Advisor Ltd which incorporates The Business Debt Advisor can help. There are a range of solutions available which include both formal and informal solutions such as Debt Management Plans (DMP), Individual Voluntary Arrangements (IVA), Bankruptcy as well as solutions for Businesses.
There is also free help and advice available through a variety of debt charities. For more information, we recommend you visit www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk.
The Debt Advisor is regulated by The Financial Conduct Authority and is also a member of the DRF and we adhere to their codes and standards.
Call us today on 0800 0851 825 to speak with one of our advisors. If you’re calling from a mobile you can reach us on 0333 9999 600.