This season, don't be Scrooge, just be careful

More than a week into the "official" Christmas shopping season, it's time to ask a not-so-festive question: Have you maxed out your credit cards yet?

I sure hope not. And so does Mike Peterson, vice president of American Credit Foundation in Midvale.

The foundation is a nonprofit credit counseling organization that has been in business since 1999. This year, it is distributing free copies of a nifty "Debt-free Holidays Handbook" to people who call 208-1000.

Besides distributing these holiday helpers, Mike and the folks at the American Credit Foundation have written up some tips to help you keep spending under control this year. As the foundation says, "You don't have to be Scrooge, you just have to be smart."

• Decide how much you are willing to spend, and stick to it. "Pretend you are spending cash. How much can you afford out of pocket this month? If you cannot afford it right now, consider that you cannot afford it at all."

• Budget non-gift and after-Christmas items, too. This means cards, stamps, candles, a tree, decorations and "food galore."

• Make a gift list and estimate how much you want to spend on each person. Include smaller gifts for teachers or your Deseret Morning News carrier. "Then, add it up and compare the total to your budgeted amount," the foundation says. "Make the necessary adjustments. Your brother-in-law may only get socks this year."

• Cut down your list. When saving money is important, it's OK not to give gifts to everyone you know.

• Be creative. Many people are happy with a nice card or some home-baked cookies. "Remember, the holidays aren't about presents, but about goodwill towards man."

• Carry your shopping list with you. Start early so you can comparison shop.

• If a store offers free gift wrapping, go for it.

• Have willpower. If you stick to your estimates, you won't go over budget.

• Increase your income for the season. There are lots of ways to earn a little extra money during the holidays. "Many stores hire part-time workers for the holidays," the foundation says. "Since it is a party season, baby-sitting is in high demand. Be imaginative."