Tis the Season for Debt Management, Reports Counselling Directory

The most prevalent advice from debt management experts is to plan ahead, prepare and budget - here are a few tips to help you to do so in what can be one of the most costly times of the year:

1. If you already have an outstanding balance on your credit card or are in the process of paying off a personal loan or overdraft, think carefully before spending anymore.

2. If you plan on borrowing money then ensure you have considered how and when you will repay it, and if possible budget for the repayments in advance.


3. Be realistic about your budget. Work out the amount you can afford to spend on each person and stick to it.

4. If you can afford to pay for gifts outright with your own money then no matter how good the deal, don't be persuaded to take out credit agreements.

5. Read the small print - always scour the small print for any hidden extras in any credit agreement before you sign on the dotted line. Interest free credit may initially seem appealing but if you don't pay on time you may be penalised and concealed extra costs may leave you worse off.

Read more: Tis the Season for Debt Management, Reports Counselling Directory