Wallet feeling the pinch?  If it isn’t now, it may when the credit card bills roll in (if you used them.)  Here are a few ways to minimize the financial ‘ouch’ of Christmas, or at least recover from it quickly!

1. Stay out of stores! You probably don’t need one more “thing” in the house right now.  If you do go out, make a list of only what you need and stick to it.  I find staying home with my children much easier (and much more productive) than dragging them through stores anyway!
2. If you do need something, wait. For instance, my slow cooker is on the blink and while I would like to run right out and buy one, I am waiting for our banking rewards gift card to arrive.  Also, I was surprised to receive a gift card last night at a late Christmas get-together, and soooo, my cart will also be graced with those skinny jeans I have been wanting for months so that I could actually wear my boots correctly (finally!)  Often, I will eventually find things on my ongoing list at yard sales, on ebay or Craigslist, or at Goodwill.  It just takes a little patience- your wallet will thank you.
3. Eat from the freezer and pantry.  For your regular meals for the next couple of weeks, just eat your way through what you have rather than adding groceries to your long list of expenses.  You may have to do a search for recipes using what you have on hand.  This is a great time to do this since the grocery sales are pretty slim right now.
4. Try taking a hiatus from cable TV. I love reading and crafting while my husband enjoys our HD antenna.  We also rent movies from the library, use our Redbox gift codes, and enjoy new video games during “screentime”.  When (and if) you are ready for cable again, you’ll likely have been offered a nice rate to come back.  Try this list of top ten ways to go TV free.
5. Plan to shop clearance sales. By plan, I mean make a list of gifts needed for upcoming birthdays, teacher gifts, and next Christmas.  Also look for basic wrapping paper, ribbon, and baking supplies that can be used year-round.  Store future gift items in a labeled container.  Personally, I’m waiting for 70-90% off, and, of course, I’m bringing my gift card!

There are plenty of ways to save money- these are just a few of the biggest with immediate impact on your budget.  Come back next week for a complete list of money-saving tips.  

And please do share in the comments your biggest save-money-quick ideas.

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