Five tips to reduce costs this Christmas

Are you a PLAN and SPREAD the COST type of member? Or a LAST MINUTE purchaser?

We’ve compiled 5 TIPS to help REDUCE your COSTS this CHRISTMAS.

• BUDGET:  Set a Christmas budget now that’s within your means and stick to it! Keep a spreadsheet or notepad of essential spends and tick off as you complete - always try to spend less than you’ve budgeted for.

• CUT BACK ON PRESENTS:  Agree to only buy presents for the smaller kids and not the adults this year, and for a set amount.  Or why not agree with family and friends to organise SECRET SANTA giving with a maximum £10-£20 spend. Have the conversations now!

• KEEP SAVING:  Make sure you keep saving, even if it’s just the minimum £10/mth to keep your account open with us, this can be increased again when it suits you.

• PLAN NIGHTS IN:  Plan Christmas nights in with family and friends and save on expensive nights out.  Some suggestions:  get the unused board games out for a change, watch a movie or why not organise a book swap party!

• SPREAD THE COSTS NOW:  Spend a little each month to spread the cost from September pay - December.  Don’t leave your shopping until last minute when everything is more expensive!  

Don’t forget we also have a Flexi-Loan that could help you spread the cost this Christmas.

Email creditunion@harpandcrown.co.uk or phone 028 9068 5198. 

“Save regularly and borrow only what you need.”

The Harp and Crown Credit Union provides safe, ethical and flexible finances to the Police and wider Police family in Northern Ireland.