How to Avoid Overspending

Some ways to avoid overspending are:

• Stay within your budget and preset spending limits.
• Give yourself plenty of time to shop so you can find the best bargains.
• Don't buy anything impulsively.
• Don't succumb to "buy now pay later" offers.
• Compare prices, features and quality before you make a purchase.
• If you have time, use catalogues to shop for specific items.
• If haven’t budgeted for an item, do not buy it (or revise your plan).
• Stop using credit and pay with cash.
• Take a calculator with you when you go shopping; total the cost of your items as you shop to avoid overspending.
• Take only the amount of cash you have budgeted with you when you shop.
• If possible, don’t buy gifts until January sales opportunities are available.
• Don’t borrow money to finance Christmas.
• If you absolutely must borrow money, choose the lender with the lowest interest rates.
• Don't overdraft your checking or savings accounts.
• Keep a record of all your credit or store card purchases.
• If you have to use credit to make purchases, pay as much as you can toward the bill when you receive it to reduce your balance and subsequent interest charges.