Scale back holiday spending if credit card debt grows too high

Scale back holiday spending if credit card debt grows too high It's easy to get swept up in the gift-giving spirit at this time of year. During the holidays, even the most cost-conscious consumers can see their credit card debt quickly spiral out of control.

A number of polls show that consumers, who in general are feeling better about their current finances than in the past, are likely to spend more money this holiday season than they did last year, and unless they're careful, that could result in significant credit card debt, according to a report in the Bellingham Herald.

There are a number of ways consumers are avoiding additional credit card debt this holiday season, the report said. One popular method is to simply use alternative payment options, such as debit cards, cash and even prepaid cards. While this does not allow for the type of financial flexibility a credit card might - the amount of money you have is all you can spend - it can save considerable cash in the long run because the cardholder won't have to deal with interest payments.

Other consumers are becoming more frugal in making their purchases, the report said. Some are putting together thoughtful presents, such as gift baskets, and paying far less to do so than if they had bought the hottest toy or gadget. Many are also doing more comparison shopping, checking retailer fliers, online promotions and other ways to ensure they're getting the lowest price possible on the gifts they want to buy.

Another popular method for saving money, or at least ensuring consumers don't spend more than they want to, is to make a budget before heading to the mall or other retailers, the report said. Doing so, and keeping the total amount one wants to spend in mind, can help limit overspending and keep any credit card debt incurred to a reasonable level. Some consumers are even leaving their credit cards at home when they go holiday shopping to ensure they spend only what they plan for.

Many consumers have sworn off credit card debt recently, with some even closing all their accounts. Others have simply relied less on these pieces of plastic to make their everyday purchases while at the same time increasing the amount of their monthly payments to more quickly lower existing balances.
blog comments powered by Disqus
Credit Karma Free Credit Score

Debtmerica Newsletter

Ask a question on Ask.Debtmerica.com

About Debtmerica

Debtmerica is a leading debt settlement company that offers assistance to individuals and families who are experiencing financial difficulties and hardship.

We offer debt resolution programs that specialize in negotiated debt settlement that assists clients by reducing debt balances while providing an affordable monthly payment.

Our professional and knowledgeable staff has helped thousands of consumers get back on their feet financially.

Stay Connected With Debtmerica

Achievements

Debtmerica has had one vision since inception - to help Americans nationwide attain financial independence.

At Debtmerica, we're proud of our achievements and honors. They represent our commitment to our vision and clients.

Debtmerica Inc 500Debtmerica OCBJ IAPDA TASCDebtmerica

Top Articles to Help You Lead A Debt-Free Life

  • Debt Consolidation: “Debt Consolidation” is one of the most commonly misunderstood and misinterpreted personal finance strategies that consumers inquire about all the time. While some view it as a method of taking on new loans, others see it as a debt relief alternative. It is more important than ever for inquisitive consumers to have a very strong understanding of exactly what debt consolidation entails, and the impacts it can have on personal finances.
  • Debt Relief: Debt relief is defined as a partial or total forgiveness of debt. When the term is used by the government, it usually refers to the forgiveness of debt to underdeveloped countries. Recently, it has begun to refer to the millions of consumers who are overwhelmed with debt seeking financial relief from their unsecured debt.
  • Credit Card Debt: Credit card debt is an example of unsecured consumer debt, accessed through credit cards. Debt results when a client of a credit card company purchases an item or service through the card system. Debt accumulates and increases via interest and penalties when the consumer does not pay the company for the money he or she has spent.
  • Debt Settlement: Debt settlement programs use a third party to negotiate lower balances and interest rates on unsecured debt. This type of debt management plan helps provide consumers an alternative to bankruptcy while reducing your outstanding debt.
  • Credit Counseling: There are a numerous options for consumers who want to start getting their finances under control after accumulating large amounts of debt, which could inevitably lead to credit problems further down the road. Consumers who are in control of most aspects of their finances, but still feel like they could use additional help managing their debt burden, could certainly benefit from the assistance of a consumer credit counseling service.
  • How Do I Get Out of Debt?: Now that the national economy is beginning to recover and people are having a better time dealing with their personal finances, many consumers who found themselves sunk deep in debt over the last few years may be asking themselves the question, “How do I get out of debt?” Fortunately, there are a number of avenues consumers can take to get out of debt, each with benefits and drawbacks depending on how quickly people need to fix their financial problems.
  • 10 Tips to Avoid the Debt Trap: Have you ever thought about why so many of the people you know are struggling with debt? Do you ever wonder why banks keep lending to certain individuals, even when they are falling behind on their payments? Did you know that debt problems are a leading cause of major societal problems, such as stress, divorce and alcoholism?
  • Credit Management: Many consumers are finding themselves buried under a pile of mounting debt. With interest accumulating month after month in addition to late fees being charged, many consumers are finding it difficult to make just the minimum payments on their credit cards. Although this may seem like an endless battle, with a strict budget and some discipline there are credit management strategies and solutions that will allow consumers to reduce or even eliminate their debt.
  • Credit Card Debt Reduction: In recent months, many Americans have made a greater effort to seek credit card debt reduction and reduce the balances they owe, but some may not know where to start. Fortunately, there are several options available for consumers thathave a financial goal to achieve credit card debt reduction.
  • Credit problems: Paying down high levels of debt is one of the best ways to improve credit problems and increase one’s credit standing. But many people cannot do that so quickly, especially in this economy. About one-third of a credit score is based off of a credit utilization ratio, which is the total creditbalances divided by the total credit limits. A great target is to use no more than 30% of one’s available credit.

A Secure & Trusted Site

Debtmerica is committed to providing a safe and secure site that you can trust.