As the holiday season approaches, most Americans spend countless dollars on their loved ones. Between the gifts and holiday plans throughout Maryland, it is easy to rely on your credit card. Dependence on credit, however, can lead to serious credit card bills in the future. Credit does not have to be off-limit this holiday season. In fact, you can still use credit cards strategically to reap the benefits without stacking on more debt.
Credit Karma suggests using credit card awards to minimize holiday debt and to maximize spending. Rewards are incentives. Credit card companies may provide points and discounts, cash back or miles and hotel stays. If you accumulate points all year, then the holiday season is a great time to take advantage of the rewards.
With cash back rewards, you can combine your rewards with cash back websites. This allows you to layer the savings and cash back that you receive. Layering your savings is a smart way to avoid debt. Keep an eye out for holiday promotions at your favorite stores. You may even want to call in advance, in case there are promotions that the store does not advertise. To layer your deals makes for bigger savings later on.
In order to minimize your spending, you can create itemized lists for how much you can spend on each item. Do not create a broad budget. You want to do your best not to overspend. Strategic credit card use can increase your benefits without leading to massive debt.
The above article is meant to inform on credit card usage. It is not legal advice.
