AICCCA Advises Consumers to Start Holiday Shopping Now




Fairfax, VA - July 17, 2008 — High heat, high gas prices and high grocery bills have many consumers feeling the effects of a down economy, so thinking about holiday spending is probably the last thing on their minds. However, the Association of Independent Consumer Credit Counseling Agencies (AICCCA) says starting now is the best way to save money and keep from adding to debt and stress loads when the holidays are here.

"Holiday spending can spiral out of control if you don't have a plan," said Dave Jones, president, AICCCA. "All consumers would do themselves a favor if they start their shopping and planning now, if they haven't already. The holiday season is only five short months away."

To get started, AICCCA suggests you answer the following questions:

How much can we spend? Sit down with the family and decide how much money you can afford to spend on gifts. Be honest with yourself and try to come up with a realistic dollar amount. This will help you make good decisions when it comes time for the next step.

Who will we buy for? Just like Santa, you will need a list. By assigning a dollar value to each person on the list, you will be able to compare it to your spending plan and make adjustments where necessary to stay within the planned amount.

What do we do with our lists? Be sure that everyone gets a copy of their list to keep with them. If you find something you like, you will have your list handy and can be sure the item is within the price range. If it is and you purchase the item, be sure to mark that person off of the list.

AICCCA also recommends that you keep the following tips in mind while shopping:

Cash and carry. If possible, use cash-on-hand for your purchases. If you must use credit, be sure you can pay off the balance in 90 days or less.

One-of-a-kind items. Take advantage of any summer trips you take to shop for unusual gifts. Don't rule out secondhand gifts, especially if they are unique to the area you are visiting.

Online shopping. If gas prices are keeping you close to home, get started with your online shopping. Starting now will enable you to choose the lowest shipping charges; in fact, you may even be able to avoid shipping costs completely. Be sure to shop around for the best prices for any online purchases.

Craft days. Summer is a great time for crafts. A rainy day spent making a present for a grandparent or other close relative will keep little hands busy and put your family that much closer to being ready for the holiday season. This is true even if don't have children, but enjoy making gifts for others. Starting now will ease the stress of last minute stitching, or other craft-related chores, as the season approaches.

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 866-703-TRUSTAICCCA (866-703-8787) or visit www.aiccca.org.