It’s easy to get caught up in the ribbons and wrappings of the holiday shopping season. But, when January arrives, so do the bills. Take a few moments as the holidays unfold to keep your finances wrapped up without overspending.
- Make a list of your priorities – Set a total holiday budget before you start shopping so you know what you can spend on gifts, food, travel entertainment and decorations.
- Stick to your budget – Be cautious of “buy now, pay later” offers. If you’re considering purchasing large items on an installment plan, remember that multiple payments add up quickly in the new year. Be aware of fees, interest or additional charges that may add to the purchase price.
- Don’t fall for scams – Beware of scams that appear as an email message, text message or social media post that offers a deal that’s too good to be true. Shop with trusted retailers and double-check website addresses before you enter payment information. Just a slight spelling error in the company’s URL can be overlooked by the most cautious consumer. Stop. Look. Verify.
- Spend within your means – Don’t serve yourself financial regret during the holidays. Overspending on meals, parties and celebrations can add up quickly. Avoid overspending in one budget category because you saved in another. Remember, meaningful celebrations don’t have to come with a big price tag.
- Don’t let urgency cause you to overspend – Limited time offers and two-for-one sales may sound like a great deal, however, determine what you truly need before you buy on the “sale that ends tonight.” Today’s urgency can create tomorrow’s financial burden.
Community Consumer Tips Fraud Prevention General Saving Money
November 10, 2026 by Iowa State Bank
