Rent Payments over Christmas
For many people Christmas is a magical time of year, celebrating with family and friends, enjoying all the wonderful things the season has to offer. But Christmas also brings extra costs, and it can be very tempting to skip bill payments at this time of year hoping you will catch up in the New Year.
Think twice about missing your rent payments, you could be putting your home at risk. Don’t forget you have two rent free weeks – week commencing 23rd December and 30th December, so that should help you plan your spending.
Below is a list of tips to help you stay on track with your expenses this Christmas.
- For peace of mind put your rent and other priority bills first
Do not be tempted to pay for Christmas by missing your rent or other priority bills such as utilities and council tax. You are only likely to end up struggling in the New Year.
- Budget
Keep track of your Christmas spending. Work out a budget for food, drink, decorations and presents. Write a list, take it shopping with you and stick to it.
- Plan your presents
Do not panic buy! Have a think before you hit the shops or the internet about what you might buy for who and set a budget for each person.
- Compare prices
Have a good look around for the best deals. Browse the internet before you hit the shops, using comparison websites can help you decide before you even leave the house.
- See what decorations you have left
See what decorations you still have from last year before you buy new ones. A quick check will save you from buying anything you do not need.
- Don’t buy things that do not like or will not get eaten
Christmas cake and Christmas pudding might be traditional, but they are not everyone’s favourite. If items are going to be thrown away, do not waste your money on them.
- Don’t buy a bigger turkey than you need
Do not spend more than you need to on a turkey unless you really will make the most of the leftovers. Consider just a portion size, like a turkey crown instead and avoid the waste.
- Choose an alternative Christmas day meal
Turkey is traditional, but if it is not your family’s favourite and it is going to cost a lot, consider alternatives for your Christmas dinner. It might make a pleasant change and save you money.
- Use discount vouchers and money off coupons
Save on your shopping with discount vouchers and money off coupons. Also browse the internet for the best source of discount codes.
- Use your loyalty points
Christmas is the ideal time for you to use loyalty points to buy food, drinks and presents. You can often get better deals with loyalty points online so check the internet as well.
Hopefully you have found these tips helpful, but if you would like more support or information to get on top of your bills, cut costs, get the best deals our website can help – Help paying your bills – Northamptonshire Partnership Homes
Money Helper also has an online budget planner to help you save money here –
Budget planner | Free online budget planning tool | MoneyHelper
Enjoy the festive season without the money worries, please contact us if you need financial support or advice –
0300 330 7003 ask for the Financial Inclusion Team we’re here to help.
