Freedom First Advice Center

With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season also comes an unfortunate increase in crime rates. With hectic shoppers rushing around distracted by their to-do lists, thieves are often waiting for the perfect opportunity to capitalize on this shopping madness.

ATM theft remains a prevalent crime during this time of year since more people tend to make regular cash withdrawals during the holidays. Here are some essential precautions to take when using an ATM to ensure that you and your money are safe.

While the holidays are a time for cheer and spending time with family, many also experience heightened levels of stress. With all that has happened this year, you may find yourself more overwhelmed than usual as the holidays approach.

However, there are things, even in these unsettling times, you can do to help reduce your stress during the holidays. Below are some tips to help you get through the holidays as stress-free as possible.

Whether you’re heading off on vacation, tackling the stores or just enjoying an evening out, taking a few extra steps to protect yourself and your identity this holiday season isn’t only smart, it’s easy.

Criminals love distracting environments – and the holiday season provides just that with bustling crowds, bright displays, and enticing store sales. And while you’re out enjoying yourself, identity theft probably isn’t on the top of your mind. However, a distracted shopper or tourist provides an easy target for pick-pocketing, theft, or other types of crime. You can protect yourself by taking a few simple precautions.

It’s pretty safe to say that everyone has felt the effects of inflation at this point. While some inflation is good for the economy, such a dramatic rise in a short period continues to send prices soaring. To stop the climb, the Federal Reserve continues to raise the federal funds rate – a move that further hits consumers’ wallets.

Many people are turning to credit cards to help manage rising prices and make ends meet. Unfortunately, moves by the Federal Reserve are causing credit card rates to spike – giving people a double punch right in the wallet. Rising prices plus rising interest rates can create a costly debt spiral that’s difficult to escape.

The twinkling lights, delicious foods, and festive music are all signs the holiday season is upon us. Add in the precious moments with family and friends, and it’s a reminder of why it’s the merriest time of the year.

Whether it’s decorating, buying gifts, traveling, or entertaining guests, the holidays are also one of the most expensive times. But this year has people even more stressed as prices continue to soar.

Before you let today’s economic woes bah humbug your holiday spirit, review the following tips to help boost your spending power.

Let’s face it…while credit cards are a great way to build your credit, they can get you into trouble if you’re not careful.  With so many people taking advantage of the ease of online shopping these days, overspending can happen fast, and before you know it, you’re up to your ears in debt.

Taking control of your spending is essential to maintaining a good credit score. And, when used appropriately, credit cards can actually help your financial situation.

These days it’s easier than ever to make purchases. With most items only requiring a click, tap, or swipe of a credit card, you’re able to quickly purchase an item without ever thinking twice about it.

The problem lies in that most people don’t keep track of how many times they’re using their cards in a month. Then, when their statement comes, they realize just how fast all those little charges can add up. As a result, anxiety quickly sets in when trying to figure out exactly how to pay the outstanding balance.

Before you jump right into trying to pay down debt or hiding your statements hoping the debt will go away, it’s essential to have a strategy in place that will help you pay off your credit card debt.