Tag Archives: Money management

Creating a Holiday Spending Plan: Balancing Gifts, Travel, and Festivities

Before you know it, the holiday season will be in full swing. From gift-giving to festive gatherings and long-anticipated travel plans, there’s plenty to look forward to this time of year. However, it’s easy to get lost in the excitement and let costs spiral without realizing it. 

According to PwC’s 2024 Holiday Outlook survey, overall holiday spending is expected to increase by 7% from last year, ringing in at a total of $1,638 per shopper on average. 

Whether you anticipate spending more or less than this amount, creating a holiday spending plan can help you stay on budget and avoid overspending. This way, you’re ready for every occasion and don’t have to miss out on any precious holiday moments. 

Below, we’ll walk through some simple steps to creating a solid holiday spending plan. 

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Checks in Estate Planning and Trust Funds

According to LegalZoom, over half of Americans, or 56%, think estate planning is important for end-of-life planning. So, even though this process can feel overwhelming, taking thoughtful steps now can ease the burden for your loved ones later on. 

One way to make the process more straightforward is to organize your financial matters. This includes setting up clear methods for disbursing funds, like using paper checks. By being proactive with these details, you not only make the process easier but also give your family peace of mind, knowing that everything is in order. 

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How to Manage Finances in your 20s

In your 20s, you may be juggling jobs, education, and relationships, but it’s wise to make sure your financial health is also being cared for. By starting with smart choices now, you can boost your comfort and success in your 30s and beyond. 

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How to Resist Impulsive Spending

A midwestern couple walks into a mall. They’re looking to get some exercise so they set their FitBits and 9,000 steps later they’ve dropped $500. If you’re waiting for a punchline, there isn’t one. They left the mall with three ramen bowls, two coats, a pair of Doc Martens, and a bag of Lindt truffles they didn’t need when they got there and still didn’t need when they left.

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Living in Financial Denial? Here’s How to Bounce Back

In a bleak economy that has split the “middle class” into three different subclasses, the 18 to 29 age group have more opportunities to go into debt than any generation that came before them. There is a lot of pressure to show success. So much so that more people are living beyond their means more than ever.

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