Holiday Budgeting 

During the holidays, additional strains to our personal expenses occur which can make budgeting an even more difficult task. In order to manage expenses during the holiday season, consider the following suggestions. Build a separate budget just for these yearly expenses. This includes planning out dollar amounts for things such as gifts, travel, meals, and entertainment. Often during the holiday period from November through December, the additional expenses associated with visiting family, purchasing gifts for family and friends, charitable giving, and the costs associated with entertaining guests are under-estimated. Laying out these expenses beforehand is beneficial as it allows one to prepare and manage the stress of last-minute costs. Pre-planning will also give you a guide as to what you are able to do or not do when it comes to holiday traditions. Will you be able to get photographs taken for Christmas Cards or will store bought do? Will you be able to get a real tree, or will the artificial one in the basement serve its purpose another year? Turkey or Ham for Thanksgiving dinner? Holiday budgeting allows one to prepare and manage expenses, so that the time with friends and family is enjoyable without the worries of large credit card bills come January.