The holiday season has arrived, bringing with it the excitement of finding the perfect gifts for your loved ones. As you begin your shopping, it's important to keep a few things in mind to make the experience smoother and more meaningful.
Set A Budget
A budget is more than just numbers; it’s a plan that allows you to enjoy the holidays without financial stress. Begin by reviewing your total expenses and setting a realistic spending limit. Divide your budget into categories like gifts, decorations, and travel, and consider using budgeting apps to monitor spending in real time. With a strong budget, you can celebrate the season without leaving your bank account empty.
Protect Your Personal Data
Your personal and financial information can be just as enticing as cookies left for Santa. Stick to shopping on secure, reputable websites—look for “https” in the URL, where the ‘s’ means secure. Be wary of emails or ads with deals that seem too good to be true; they may be attempts to capture your personal information. When shopping in stores, keep your credit cards secure and cover the keypad when entering your PIN.
Research Before You Buy
Before buying from a new retailer, take time to read reviews and verify their legitimacy with the Better Business Bureau. For high-ticket items, make sure to purchase from an authorized dealer to avoid counterfeits. The more informed you are about the seller, the less likely you are to face disappointment.
Always Check For Discounts
During the sales season, resist the urge to jump at the first deal you find. Use price comparison sites to make sure you’re getting the best value. These sites can also help you check if the retailer offers any extra discounts or coupons. Be sure to read the fine print—what seems like a great deal could come with hidden costs like high shipping fees.
Review Your Receipts & Transactions
Before you make a purchase, understand the return options. Knowing the return policies is especially important if you use buy now, pay later apps. Keep your receipts organized and be aware of the time limits for returns or exchanges. Many stores also offer gift receipts, making it easy for recipients to return or exchange items if they’re not quite right.
Beware Of Scams
Scammers often disguise their schemes with festive appeal, knowing shoppers are eager for deals and may click quickly. If an offer sounds too good to be true, it likely is. Be especially wary of retailers requesting payment via gift cards or wire transfers—these are common red flags for fraud.
The Department of Financial Protection and Innovation. “Safe Holiday Shopping.” The Department of Financial Protection and Innovation, 29 Nov. 2023, dfpi.ca.gov/2023/11/21/safe-holiday-shopping/.