WASHINGTON, Nov. 16 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The National Association of Federal Credit Unions (NAFCU) knows holiday shopping can be challenging. Here are some tips to keep your holiday shopping on budget and safe.
1) Prepare -- Before you start shopping, online or otherwise, create your gift list and determine how much you can spend on each person. You might even set a budget among family and friends or perhaps establish a gift exchange program.
2) Packaging -- Don't forget to account for gift wrapping, cards and/or shipping costs. They can rack up quickly and undermine the best budget.
3) Plan -- Identify the possible gifts you are looking for and then you can compare prices and complete your shopping in a more efficient fashion. Some stores may offer coupons or quantity discounts, so it may pay to buy in bulk.
4) Payment Options -- Do not be lured by enticing payment offers. Know your budget and your options. There is still time to get your finances in order. Many credit unions offer free financial literacy classes and counseling sessions that can help you get your holiday season off to a good start.
5) Protect Yourself -- If you plan to shop online, make sure that the sites where you are shopping are secured by the padlock symbol or "https" in the address line. Also, do not respond to unsolicited email offers. This is high season for "phishing attacks." Criminals may send you an email directing you to a phony site or posing as a financial institution where they solicit your personal information. Remember to update anti-virus programs to ensure your computer is protected with the latest software.
6) Project -- Get ahead for next year and start a savings account Most accounts at credit unions can be opened with a minimal deposit, sometimes as low as $5. And interest rates and customer service at credit unions have been highly recommended by Consumer Reports and Consumer Federation of America.
7) Practical -- The best gifts for someone may not be extravagant. Maybe that car buff would appreciate a gift card for oil changes. Or maybe a gift card to the theater for that movie buff.
8) Personal -- Remember that time is the most valuable gift you can give someone. So perhaps offers of babysitting or a home-cooked meal would be more welcome than any store-bought item.
9) Peace -- Try to keep the spirit of the season in mind and don't stress because everything does not go as smoothly as you imagined.
10) Party -- Time spent with friends and family is priceless. So remember after all the running around to celebrate the joys of the season. Happy Holidays!!!
NAFCU is the only national organization that focuses exclusively on issues affecting federal credit unions, representing its members before the federal government and the public. For more information, visit http://www.nafcu.org/.
National Association of Federal Credit Unions
