Four ways to put the 'jingle' back in your holiday budget


(ARA) - Presents, decorations, greeting cards, meals, travel ... the holiday shopping list could go on and on - and so can the debt. But there are simple ways to reign in spending without sacrificing holiday cheer.

In a recent survey by financial services company USAA, nearly half of respondents said that the movie titles, "It's a Wonderful Life" and "Jingle All the Way," best describe their approach to this year's holiday budget. Follow these four tips to make your holiday "Jingle All the Way" and avoid getting "Scrooged":

  • Use cash to pay for your purchases, and leave the credit cards at home. Nearly half of those surveyed say they will use a credit card for some holiday purchases this year, but resist the urge to splurge by keeping in mind that the more time you spend paying off your credit card balance, the more expensive the item will become.


  • Since paying off holiday debt is the least favorite holiday activity according to USAA's research, taking the time to create a budget before you hit the mall will help keep spending in check.


  • With nearly one in five Americans unsure of how they'll pay for holiday purchases, consider investing more time and less money into new ways to keep holiday traditions alive.



A Cold, Cold War Over Arctic Oil And Gas
The U.S. is in the thick of a fight to access huge reserves at the top of the world.

Why Davidson Scores Big
We profile one of our top 100 picks for best values in private colleges.

Don't Keep This Deal Site A Secret

Is The Dollar Really Going Out Of Style?
Right now the dollar is being pummeled by traders, but its real future lies in the hands of the Federal Reserve.

Media’s Bright Spots
The big winner ten years from now will be a company that is tiny today or hasn't even been born yet.

Home Remodeling Perking Up
With existing-home sales ticking higher, home remodelers anticipate more business in coming months.

Don't Be Frightened By Your Finances

Who Speaks For The GOP? (A Continuing Series)
All eyes are on an upstate New York district with history of moderates.

8 Fundamental Money Lessons
Learn how to better manage your money with these simple and practical lessons.

Secrets Of Selling A Used Car
Find out what tricks dealers and car buffs use to help you get top dollar for your vehicle.



Listen to Bob Stroud Weekdays from 10AM to 3PM
 
 
Saturday, Nov 7, 2009
12:00am
The Drive A to Z
11:00pm
The Deep End
Sunday, Nov 8, 2009
12:00amThe Drive A to Z
7:00amRock 'n Roll Roots
Debut of Roots CD Volume 11.
9:00pmThe Classics
More of the Best of the Double Albums
Monday, Nov 9, 2009
12:00amThe Drive A to Z
Tuesday, Nov 10, 2009
3:00amOvernight Album Side
Emerson, Lake & Palmer
10:00amTen @ 10
1983
1:45pmOne 45 @ 1:45
Amboy Dukes
5:00pmLive @ 5
Emerson, Lake & Palmer
9:00pmLong One @ 9
Neil Young
10:00pmTen @ 10 Replay
1983
EXPRESS LOG IN
Email:   Password:     
Not a member?