AICCCA Offers 4 Don'ts at the Eleventh Hour of Christmas


Fairfax, VA (October 26, 2004) — Fairfax, VA (2004) - Many consumers have put off their holiday shopping till the last minute. With much left that must get done, Association of Independent Consumer Credit Counseling Agencies offers these four things not to do to help consumers avoid holiday debt.

Four Don'ts to Remember:


• Don't panic — While this may seem simplistic, it is important to take a deep breath before rushing into buying gifts at the last minute. Otherwise, you may feel pressured into buying more than you can ever pay off.
  
  
• Don't increase your debt load — A terrible mistake to make this holiday season is to continue spending when you know that you are in the hole already. Do not do any more damage than you have already done. Stop now.
  
  
• Don't feel guilty — Avoid shaming yourself into more debt. Just because you have not completed your holiday shopping does not call for spending your way out of guilt. Remember, serious debt is often fueled by guilt.
  
  
• Don't let this happen again — Last minute shopping can be tricky if you want to avoid holiday debt. Make sure that it does not happen next year. Plan ahead, prepare gifts early, and avoid the pressure. If you feel that you need help doing so, call an AICCCA member at 800-450-1794 or visit www.aiccca.org.
  
  
Founded in 1993, Association of Independent Consumer Credit Counseling Agencies (AICCCA) is a national membership organization, established to promote quality and consistent delivery of credit counseling services. AICCCA and its members are focused on improved creditor relations, efficient processes and advanced technology to best serve clients and creditors. AICCCA members are independent nonprofit agencies that advocate for debtors, counsel millions of consumers annually nationwide and provide debt management services to consumers with excessive unsecured debt. For more information or to contact an AICCCA member office call (800) 450-1794 or visit www.aiccca.org.