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The calendar has officially flipped to December! It’s the season of holiday lights, family gatherings, and, let’s be honest, a flurry of spending. Between finding the perfect gifts, hosting dinners, and traveling to see loved ones, it is easy for your financial routine to get swept away in the holiday rush.
At Success Credit Union, we want your holiday season to be filled with joy, not financial stress. As we close out the year, here are four ways to protect your wallet and set yourself up for a successful start to 2026.
1. The "Naughty or Nice" Spending Check
It is tempting to get caught up in the spirit of giving, but generous impulses can sometimes lead to a "holiday hangover" in January. If you haven’t already, set a hard cap for your remaining holiday spending.
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Include the "hidden" costs: Don't just budget for gifts. Remember to factor in wrapping paper, shipping costs, holiday meal ingredients, and travel gas.
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Track as you go: Use our Mobile App to check your balance before you get to the checkout line.
2. Protect Your Joy (and Your Data)
December is the busiest time of year for shoppers, but unfortunately, it is also the busiest time for scammers. Whether you are shopping online or swiping in-store, keep security top of mind.
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Monitor your alerts: Set up transaction alerts on your Success Credit Union debit or credit card. If you see a charge you don’t recognize, report it immediately.
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Beware of shipping scams: Be wary of text messages claiming a package is "delayed" and asking you to click a link. Always go directly to the retailer's website to track orders.
3. Look Ahead to 2026
It seems early, but the quiet week between Christmas and New Year’s is the perfect time to reflect.
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Review your subscriptions: Are you paying for streaming services you haven't watched in months? Cancel them now and divert that cash into savings.
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Start a "Holiday 2026" Fund: Imagine having all your gift money saved by next November. You can open a dedicated savings sub-account today and set up an automatic transfer of just $20 a paycheck. By next December, you’ll be fully funded!
We Are Here to Help You Celebrate
From all of us at Success Credit Union, we wish you a warm, safe, and happy holiday season. Whether you need help consolidating holiday bills or setting up a savings plan for the New Year, our team is here to help you succeed.