How to avoid Christmas debt

Thursday, December 3rd 2009

Citizens Advice has launched a leaflet detailing some of the ways in which consumers can take steps now to avoid spending too much over Christmas.

The charity has teamed up with Barclaycard for the initiative, which will see the pamphlets distributed across the country.

Among the tips included in the leaflet is advice to plan a budget as soon as possible and stick to it, as well as calls to remember that essential bills like energy and telecoms still need to be paid and to avoid using credit to pay for presents and other items wherever possible.

Only dealing with authorised retailers and lenders will also help to avoid the problem of being ripped off or stuck with excessive charges, Citizens Advice said.

David Harker, chief executive of the bureau, said that the charity is seeing rising numbers of consumers seeking help with debts and benefits.

"Bureaux are responding to increased demand by extending their opening hours and rolling out initiatives such as the Christmas top tips leaflets to encourage people to seek advice as early as possible," he explained.

Many low-earning families look set to struggle with their finances this Christmas, according to a recent survey by Save the Children.