OMG Christmas is Coming Soon!

Although Christmas is coming soon, you still have plenty of time to check off everyone on your list. With a little creativity, planning and budgeting you can do so without breaking the bank. By following these simple steps, you could have your holiday shopping wrapped up before Thanksgiving - with no looming credit card debt!

Make a List that Sticks

This seems simple enough right? Many people keep a mental note of who's on their holiday gift list - which usually is forgotten once they're in the store with all those big deals and savings. Make a list that sticks by pulling out your list - paper and pencil or iPhone apps will do. For example, according to "Top iPhone Christmas Shopping Applications," Juicy Christmas is an iPhone app that helps shoppers organize shopping lists and create budgets. However you decide to track your purchases, remember to check off each recipient as you make purchases. Also - and this is key - place a dollar amount by each recipient's name of how much you're willing to spend on the gift. If you go over for one person, spend less on another to make sure you stick to your overall budget.

Bulk Shopping Just Won't Do

Try picking up a holiday gift every paycheck over the next two months. This will lighten the load and decrease stress when Christmas actually arrives. Many stores offer early web "Black Friday" deals -- so get out there early and check out the deals. If you just enjoy Black Friday shopping - meet up with friends, keep your cash at home and watch the frenzy without partaking in the chaos.

Get Creative

A little creativity goes a long way when you're short on funds. Christmas is a time for sharing and giving - the price tag on the gift should'nt matter. Try giving baked goods, participating in a gift exchange, sending handwritten cards, dinner invites or free service coupons to loved ones when you're strapped for cash. For example, giving a babysitting coupon to a couple with children is priceless!

Cash Out Bank Card Points/Rewards

Does your banking institution offer rewards or points for making purchases throughout the year? If so, Christmas is a great time to use those points/rewards for good and give a nice little gift to a loved one on your list. For example, according to PNC Bank, customers can enroll their PNC Visa Check Card or Business Check Card into the PNC Points program and earn points for purchases. These points can be used to purchase gift cards from top restaurants and retailers and other items that could translate into "free" holiday gifts for you.