The holidays should be about making memories, not acquiring debt, yet one survey found that 44% of Americans expect to carry holiday debt into the new year. The good news is that holiday debt is entirely avoidable with a good plan and the right tools at your disposal. 

Before you start shopping, log in to the Ascend mobile app and review last year's spending. Then, build a holiday budget you can stick to. 
 

To avoid holiday debt, set up one all-in holiday budget before you shop, track spending weekly, earn rewards on purchases you already make, use credit only with a payoff plan, and choose thoughtful, low-cost gifts. The Ascend mobileapp helps you stay on track. 
 

How do I make a holiday budget and track my spending? 

Small purchases can add up. Tracking your budget brings visibility to your finances and helps keep you on track. 

Check last year. Review your account activity to see what you really spent, including shipping, tips, and party supplies. 

How can I get more from the money I'm already spending? 

Smart spending is all about getting more from the things you're already buying. 

Check your checking account. 
An Ascend Rewards Checking account lets you earn money back on purchases you already make, like groceries, gas, and gifts*. The busy season is a good time to look at your account and ask whether a different option would fit your habits better.  

Stack your savings. 
Use your gas points, hunt for coupons and promo codes, and join merchant rewards programs before big purchases. 

Is it okay to use a credit card for holiday shopping? 

Yes, when you have a payoff plan. Credit works best when you can pay the balance before interest builds and earn rewards on spending already in your budget. Before you swipe, decide your total charges and your payoff date. 

What holiday spending traps should I avoid? 

Being intentional with your money reduces stress and makes the season more enjoyable. Watch for these: 
 

Can I give a thoughtful gift without spending a lot? 

Absolutely. Bigger isn't always better, and the gifts people remember are the thoughtful ones. 

If you're looking for a simple way to control holiday spending, consider the four giftrule. Instead of filling the tree with dozens of presents, focus on giving: 

Make this your most financially stress-free holiday season yet 

A joyful holiday season starts with a plan. With the right habits and the right tools from Ascend, you can celebrate confidently without carrying holiday debt into the new year. 

Explore Ascend's solutions for spendingsmarter and staying on track. 

Before you start shopping, log in to the Ascend mobile app to review last year's spending and build a holiday budget you can stick to. 

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*10¢ cash back on debit card purchase transactions of $5.00 or more. Payment transactions, money transfers to non-financial institutions (such as person-to-person), tax payments, ATM withdrawals, debit card cash advances, and fraudulent purchase transactions are excluded.