(NC) The holiday season can be expensive. Between entertaining and choosing the perfect gifts, your wallet can take a hit.
Even if you do find some great bargains, credit card interest rates can quickly eat up savings from discounted prices if you carry a balance forward.
Reduce financial stress and boost your financial resilience in the new year by following these tips:
- Set a budget for gift spending before you start shopping — one for each person on your list, as well as a total limit for all gifts.
- Plan to pay the total amount owing on your credit card by the due date to avoid interest charges. If this is not possible, pay as much as you can — at least your minimum payment.
- Avoid taking cash advances on your credit card, as you will be charged interest immediately.
- Check your monthly statement carefully and report any unauthorized transactions to your credit card company immediately. This is especially important in January, since fraud occurs more frequently during the holiday season.
The Financial Consumer Agency of Canada has more tips and resources to help you budget and pay off your credit card at canada.ca/money.
