As the winter holidays approach, many Americans are preparing to be more mindful of their spending on gifts and celebrations. Experts predict a decrease in consumer spending during this typically busy time for retailers. The Federal Reserve has been increasing interest rates since March 2022 to control inflation by reducing consumer spending. However, it may take up to a year for the effects of these rate hikes to fully impact the economy. In addition, the U.S. Federal Reserve has warned of a potential slowdown, and the potential impact of rising interest rates on the economy as a whole remains uncertain. Therefore, it’s advisable to start planning your finances now. Here are some tips to help you save money and avoid stress later on.

First, set a savings goal and break it down into manageable monthly increments. One way to do this is by adjusting your W-4 form to withhold fewer taxes and have more money throughout the year rather than waiting for a tax return in April. You can also try saving a small amount of money each day and cutting back on monthly expenses, such as gym membership fees and subscriptions you no longer use. Alternatively, you can compare cable, phone, and internet plans and rates offered by different companies, but make sure you have a clear contract with a starting and ending date. Here are some additional tips to consider:

Use powerpay.org to help you manage debt.

View some of the videos to help you organize your finances:

Reduce Debt: https://youtu.be/rzJFjlls-ZQ?si=-xAakSVFbnlXPafZ

Build Your Financial Confidence: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OTb-CmwCTZM&pp=ygUNQW1lcmljYSBzYXZlcw%3D%3D

The Why behind your Money Management Strategy: https://youtu.be/UXQIlvLn1hE?si=dmGX9Rp-vKFIiagc

Lastly, it’s important to prioritize saving by treating yourself as a bill and paying yourself first. This involves setting aside funds in a savings account for emergencies or unexpected expenses. Another effective method is to automate savings through monthly deductions to encourage good financial habits. Consistent saving is a key aspect of personal finance and a smart approach to building wealth. Another tip is to create a separate account for holiday savings and automate deposits to help you stay on track. While gift-giving and festive decorations are enjoyable, the essence of the holidays lies in spending quality time with loved ones. Hope these simple budgeting tips can help you enjoy a stress-free and pleasant holiday season.

For free money management classes with a Money Management Calendar, contact us at s.campbellriley@ufl.edu or jennyarodriguez@ufl.edu. You can also log in to https://ocextension.eventbrite.com to browse for available classes.