The holidays are a time of joy and celebration, but for many, they’re also a time of stress. One primary source of holiday stress is debt, but there are things you can do to reduce your debt during the holidays. With some planning and effort, you can enjoy the holidays without the burden of debt hanging over your head. This way, you can go ahead and start your New Year’s Resolution to live debt free. Here are five tips to help you reduce your debt during the holidays and prepare for next year.

Make a budget and stick to it

Making a budget is essential to having control over your finances. By allocating funds and tracking expenses, you are taking ownership of your financial goals. You can start small by making a list of your monthly payments, such as rent and utilities, and short-term savings goals, such as vacations and purchases. Once you have compiled this information and allocated a certain amount to each expense or goal, it’s essential to stick to the budget for maximum success. Staying mindful of why the budget is being created will remind you not to be tempted into making unnecessary purchases. A budget may take some initial effort to start, but it will pay dividends if held accountable to the plan.

Shop around for the best deals on gifts

While the holidays bring many joys, they also come with a new challenge- finding the perfect gift for everyone on your list. Shopping for each recipient can strain your wallet and leave you feeling stressed. The good news is that it does not have to be this way! By shopping around and comparing prices, you can find great deals on presents that will leave you and your loved ones happy – all without breaking the bank. So don’t settle for the first option you find; make sure to explore your options so that you get a fabulous deal on all of your gifts this holiday season.

Watch out for unexpected costs this holiday season

As the holiday season quickly approaches, it is essential to remember that certain costs can rack up faster than anticipated. From food expenses to travel costs and more, hidden price tags could be attached to various seasonal events. It is wise to consider all possible costs – even those not typically associated with the holidays – and plan accordingly.

Pay off your debt as soon as possible after the holidays

After the holidays have come to a close, you may be in some debt. While it’s natural to want to take a break from budgeting and saving, it is vital to pay off your holiday debt as soon as possible. The sooner your debt is paid, the better your finances will be in the upcoming months; plus, you can avoid worrying about extra interest payments for any overdue amount. Before going into another month or season of spending, ensure that you have taken care of any outstanding financial obligations first.

Start saving for next year’s holiday season

By utilizing strategies like adjusting your withholding to build up an emergency fund, setting aside regular automatic deposits, and taking advantage of purchase rewards throughout the year, you will find yourself in a better position for the next holiday season when it arrives. Take small steps now to ensure next year’s holiday season will be as stress-free financially as possible.