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Holiday Budgeting
It can be easy to go over-budget during the holiday season. Use these simple tips to set a budget and stick to it.
Whether you’re trying to find that perfect gift, prepare a tasty meal or just make the holidays as special as possible, it can be easy to go over budget during the holiday season. Use these simple tips to set a budget and stick to it.
Start by determining how much you'll need to spend on gifts, holiday activities, family meals and other expenses. A goal is only helpful if it's realistic, so be sure not to set an unreasonably low goal amount that you'll need to increase in the future.
Don't wait until the last minute to start saving. Each year, use your paycheck as a guide. Once you determine your holiday budget, divide it by the number of paychecks between that time and the holidays. That will give you a great idea of how much you need to save each paycheck to achieve your goal.
Keeping tabs on your progress is key. With Associated Bank Mobile,¹ you can monitor your spending and keep track of your expenses—even when you're at the store!
If you want to buy a larger gift that’s out of your budget, consider splitting the cost with someone else. With Zelle®, you can easily send and receive money from people you know and trust² through Associated Bank Online and Mobile services.
And don’t forget, there are some holiday happenings you don’t have to budget for: free concerts in your community, a family volunteer project or just getting together with friends and loved ones. Most of all, be sure to budget time to enjoy what the holidays are all about.
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