The holiday season is quickly approaching.  At Cardinal Credit Union, we know the joy that comes with giving gifts to friends and loved ones, but we know it can also bring financial stress and anxiety. We’re here with a personal, guided approach to banking and budgeting this holiday season (and throughout the rest of the year). 

One way to stay on track with holiday spending is to become a Cardinal member.  You’ll gain access to a certified financial counselor who gets to know you and can help you tackle holiday budgeting at no charge. 

Another smart money move for gifting is to plan ahead.  Set a budget for each person – and stick to it!  This helps you avoid overspending and make the most out of your money.  You may also consider taking advantage of sales leading up to big gifting days and plan your spending around them.  Buying gifts with your credit card is a great way to earn points or cash back, but be sure to pay off your purchases as soon as possible.

It’s important to remember that the size or cost of the gift isn’t as important as how it makes the recipient feel.  That’s why sentimental gifts like photos make thoughtful yet inexpensive ways to remind someone of a great memory.

To plan for next year’s budget, take your total gifting spend this year and add 10%.  Divide next year’s budget by 12 and plan to save that amount per month.  It’s easier to save $50 per month starting in January than trying to come up with $550 in November!

Give yourself the gift of mindful budgeting with confidence this holiday season as a member of Cardinal Credit Union.  Visit CardinalCU.com to apply for instant membership in just three steps.

Cardinal Credit Union is a member-owned, full service financial institution open to anyone who lives, works, worships, or attends school in Lake, Cuyahoga, Geauga, Ashtabula, Portage, Summit, Mahoning, Trumbull, and Columbiana counties.