Common-Sense Holiday Shopping Tips

Common-Sense Holiday Shopping Tips

Wow! Where did the time go? I remember January 1, 2010, like it was yesterday, yet it is Thanksgiving already? Anyway, as we take some time to reflect and give thanks, on behalf of all the guys and gals here at Laser Financial Group, I’d like to say a huge “thank you!” to all of you for being a part of our family. And especially for your readership, feedback, and referrals. We really do appreciate the trust you have in us and want to assure you that we’ll never disappoint you – NEVER!

Thanksgiving also means that the busiest shopping season of the year is upon us once again. Here are two simple, but incredibly effective, tips to remember as you embark on your shopping expeditions.

1. Put dollar amounts instead of items next to each name on your shopping list.

This is the easiest and most effective way to stay within your budget – if you’ve made a budget. Even if you don’t have a budget, it would be wise to have an idea about what you expect your total outlay to be, before you head out. A lot of people focus on the itemized list, and wind up spending whatever is necessary to acquire those gifts, not that there is anything wrong with that if that’s your intention. But as we all know, most people end up exceeding their budgets and creating all sorts of financial worries later, when this whole process is supposed to be fun. By writing down dollar amounts instead, you’ll be sure to avoid most of the usual “had-I-only-known’s.”

Make it a point to remember that virtually nothing you buy is really worth more than the thought behind any particular gift. So please be sure not to fall for Madison Avenue’s attempts to lure you into buying so that you’ll be trendy, accepted, still-married, or better-liked. I’m guessing you know these are all bogus ideas simply intended to get you to spend more – and they don’t even come close to the mere thought of presenting someone with a gift.

2. Double-check your shopping receipts.

This is pretty basic, but please be sure that you are paying for exactly what you purchased. There have been several recent instances where shoppers have noticed double charges (items being inadvertently scanned twice), and even some including “cash-backs” the shoppers did not request – or receive – on their final bills. As you’d expect, such items are extremely difficult – if not impossible – to prove, once you exit the store. That is why it is critical for you to take just a minute or two to review your receipts. Just be sure to step aside – since there are likely to be others in line behind you. I don’t have to tell you what is likely to happen if you do not step aside, do I?

Happy Thanksgiving, and wishing safe travels to those who will be hitting the roads or the skies this holiday week.
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For other smart tips and bits of financial wisdom that will help you make the most of your money, visit our website, or call us for a complimentary consultation at 301-949-4449.