INDUSTRY INSIGHT
BUDGET TIPS
M oney Help
During the
Holidays
T
he holidays are a very stressful time for all of us—from money worries to
time crunches, there is a lot to juggle to get it all done on time and within
our means. Here are just a few tips that will hopefully help you to make
the most of the holidays and enjoy them, rather than be stressed the
whole season through.
ENJOY A
BETTER LIFE,
WE’LL HELP
YOU GET THERE!
201 Beram Ave. | Bridgeville, PA 15017
Phone: 412-221-6660 | www.visionaryfcu.org
14
724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE
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1. Cash in Credit Card Reward Points – You’ve been accumulating them all
year and possibly longer. Now is the time to cash those points in. Check out
the rewards catalog and website from your credit card provider for options
that won’t cost you any cash out of your pocket.
2. Consider a Rewards Credit Card – If you don’t already have one, consider
getting one. It’s one way to get rewarded for the money you spend
throughout the year. And next holiday season you will be ready to cash in
those points on cash, gift cards, and presents!
3. Price Check Everything Online – When you are shopping in the store, it could
pay off to “google” the item that you are buying to check prices online. At a
minimum, check the big items on Amazon. With free shipping this entire
holiday season, this might be the right year to use Amazon to your advantage
and pay less for items.
4. Write a List and Stick to It – It’s the #1 tip from every spending expert. Lists
should hold you accountable for what you are buying. Spend a little extra
time on the list and make sure you have it when you are shopping.
5. Secret Santa Your Gift Exchange – It’s very stressful feeling like you have
to buy a present for everyone on your list. Talk to your family and friends and
consider doing a Secret Santa. That way you only have to buy a present for
one member of the group.
6. Know When the Sales Are – Experts say that you will get the best deals on
things in the couple of weeks prior to the major holiday. So if you missed out
on Black Friday or Cyber Monday, it might be worth it to save your shopping
until closer to the holiday.
7. Pay it Forward – Rather than giving a present, consider donating to your
friend’s or family’s favorite charity. The money you donate will go a long way
to help someone else have a better holiday. And you can’t beat the proud
feeling you will get in return.
And no matter what—Enjoy the Season! The holiday season isn’t all about
presents and spending money. It’s about the time you spend with your friends
and loved ones making memories. Cherish those times. They are priceless.
This Industry Insight was written by Wendy Kingsland.
Wendy Kingsland is the CEO of Visionary FCU in Bridgeville. Prior to
joining Visionary in 2011, she was employed by Clearview FCU from
1991-2011. Kingsland currently serves as President of South West
Communities Chamber of Commerce. She is active in the Pittsburgh
Chapter of Credit Unions, serving as a board member since 1991 and
currently serving as Treasurer. She also serves as a Director for the
Pennsylvania Credit Union Association.