Holiday Shopping Tips

There are several steps you can take to ensure you’re getting the best deal and staying protected as a consumer while holiday shopping. Check out the following tips to learn how you can better budget, save and stay protected.

• Make a List. Make a list of whom you’re buying gifts for and how much you’re spending for each person. Stick to the list!
• Set Up a Holiday Account. Every week or month deposit money into the account. Don’t use the money except for its designated purpose. No one wants to be paying for holiday gifts well into the new year.
• Know Your Ways to Pay. Paying with cash will keep you from overspending. Once the money is gone, it’s gone. If you pay with plastic, it’s best to use a credit card not a debit. Credit allows you to dispute a charge if there is a problem.
• Start Early. Starting early will prevent your feeling rushed, which can lead to impulse buying. Use layaway so you can pay for gifts little by little instead of all at once.
• Save as You Spend. Before you shop, search for sales, discounts and coupons. Take advantage of free store perks, such as gift wrapping or shipping. Apps on mobile phones allow you to comparison shop to find the best deal. Retailers often email special savings coupons to customers for additional discounts.
• Shop Around for Deals. Remember, just because something is on sale doesn’t mean it’s the best price. Be sure to shop around for the best deals.
• Know Exchanges and Refunds Policies. Retailers establish their own exchange and refund policy. Before you buy, know the policy. If no refund/exchange policy is offered, it must be disclosed at the point of sale.
• Online Shop Safely. Shopping online can be fast and convenient, but has its own risks. Only deal with reputable companies. Check out a company’s complaint history and read their reviews. Also know the terms and conditions, keep records and pay by credit card.
• Consider Gift Cards. Gift cards are one size fits all and offer many choices. But not all gift cards are alike. Some charge a fee included in the purchase price. If the establishment that the gift card is for goes out of business your gift card may be voided.
• Keep Your Receipts. Be sure to keep your receipts. You may need them for returns, billing errors or to help you track your spending. Also ask for a gift receipt to include with your gift.
• Ask About Additional Fees. Even if the retailer accepts your return they may still charge you a restocking fee. Ask about the store policy and cost before you buy.
• What’s the Hurry? Be sure to know the deadlines when shipping packages. Not only do you want your packages to arrive on time, but the longer you wait the more it will cost you.
• Don’t Get Scammed. Not everyone is shopping for gifts. Scammers are shopping for your money and personal information. Always protect your information from identity theft. Know whom you are giving the information to and for what purpose. Beware of unsolicited emails, including holiday ecards, they could contain malware. Remember, not all charities are legitimate, so check them out before you donate.