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As summer hits its stride, the idea of financially preparing for the holidays might feel like overkill. Consider this: money is the most cited source of stress during the holidays, with 58% of US adults worrying about overspending or not having enough money.  

July is an ideal month to assess your financial picture and make mid-year adjustments that will help you cruise into the holiday months with fewer concerns. To make planning easier, here is a seven-item checklist you can use as your guide:  

1. Review Your Budget
   With a customizable budgeting worksheet or free app, identify areas where you may be overspending and eliminate costs, or comparison shop if possible. Budgeting isn’t about guilt, rather, it is a way to ensure you’re saving a little each month – ideally 10% of your income. Less still counts.
2. Automate Savings
   Consider the “set it and forget it” approach to allocating savings so that when peak holiday spending season comes around, you’ve avoided (or at least minimized) high interest credit card balances that can put a damper on the season and coming year. Look into consolidating debt with a personal loan for the latter and start saving now with a holiday-specific savings account for the former.
3. Strategize Debt Repayment 
   Review the balances and interest rates of your credit cards, loans, and other debts. Tackle high-interest payments first (so you’re able to put more toward principal in the long run). Explore a debt management program, which can help you eliminate debt faster.  
4. Check Your Credit Report
   Request a free copy of your credit report from AnnualCreditReport.com. Review the report for any inaccuracies or signs of identity theft. Dispute any errors you find, which could be a contributing factor to a lower score.
5. Revisit Investments
   If you have any investment accounts, think about whether your allocations still align with your long-term goals and risk tolerance. Market conditions often change, and your investment strategy should account for these fluctuations.   
6. Maximize Retirement Contributions
   If you have a retirement account, check your contributions and see if you have any room in your budget to increase them. This especially applies if your employer offers matching contributions, as it’s essentially free money. The sooner you invest, the more time your money has to grow. 
7. Review Insurance Policies
   Ensure that your health, auto, home and life insurance policies still meet your needs. Life changes such as getting married, childbirth, or expensive purchases might necessitate adjustments to your coverage or comparison shopping for more favorable rates.

Get Connected

Chat with a financial institution like Consumers Credit Union about what resources they offer so you can feel more confident as you approach peak spending season. If you need additional support, GreenPath Financial Wellness also offers discreet, no-cost financial counseling with certified experts.

This article is shared by our partners at GreenPath Financial Wellness, a trusted national non-profit.