The festive season can be full of wonder and magic. For some it can also be full of stress and anxiety. The worry about where to get money for Christmas from can be heart breaking. The idea about finding spare money for gifts and festive food can put upon may people. As great as Christmas can be, it's often a terrible time of year for others. If you are worried about Christmas cash, there are some things you can possibly do. Let's have a look at some ideas about what to do if you need help with Christmas money.
It Is Only One Day
Firstly, remember that Christmas Day is only one day. There can be so much stress about buying certain presents, or not being able to by presents and it can really turn this time of year into a nightmare. Spending time together is much ore important than gifts under the tree. The people around it is more important than what is under it! Have a Christmas within your means. Don't get side-tracked by fancy adverts or the latest gadgets. You don't want one day to spiral you into debt for the next twelve months and beyond. Do not let one day dictate the rest of your year.
Check Your Benefits
If you are struggling for money, have you doubled checked what benefits you are entitled to? A change in your financial situation could result in you being entitled to benefits you weren't previously. Remember, you have paid into the pot for years and you shouldn't worry about claiming what you are entitled to. So many people don't realise they can claim certain benefits and are missing out on this cash. You might also consider talking to your local council who could assist. It's hard, but please don't be afraid to ask for help. There are places such as foodbanks and debt charities that can help you. If you need help with Christmas money, check your benefits and entitlement.
Use Your Spare Time To Earn Cash
Do you have any time during the week that you consider spare time? It could be when you sit down on an evening when the kids are in bed or an afternoon you have off work? Could you utilise that spare time to earn some extra money? You could find a part time evening job at maybe the local takeaway or corner shop. Or use the time sitting on the sofa to earn money from online surveys. Get started with Yougov, Swagbucks and Cashback. Maybe have a clear out of things you don't need and sell them online. Avoid fees and postage rates by selling on Facebook Marketplace. You could make a few pounds per evening if you list items you no longer need.
Visit Charity Shops
Charity shops can be treasure troves of amazing finds. Discover hidden gems that people have get rid of, some of which are brand new and still in their original packaging. This can be a great way to make your money go further at Christmas time. You could pick up a couple of gifts for your children and still have change from a tenner. When you discover amazing charity shops with fantastic finds, it's such a blessing, especially when you need help with Christmas money for gifts. Change your thinking about where you shop for Christmas presents.
Make Your Own Gifts
How about making your own gifts this Christmas? This can be a lifesaver if you need help with Christmas money. Get crafty, bake biscuits, write someone a poem! Think of ways you can use your talents to gift a Christmas present. If you are good at photography, why not give a loved one a gift of a family photo shoot in the park? It doesn't really cost you anything but it's a wonderful experience for them. There are create-your-own-gift ideas which can certainly save you some money!
Don't Stress
Remember, the number one thing to do is to keep stress at bay. Christmas Day is one day and it shouldn't deliver you a sleigh load of stress. It is what you make it, so if this year is a little bit tight money wise, think of ways you can do things for free. A walk in the park is free. Looking at the town's Christmas lights is free. Taking your own hot drink with you is cheaper than buying one when you're there!
Think outside the box this Christmas time. Get what you are entitled to, earn some extra cash and find ways that you can not only make your money stretch further, but do things for free too. Christmas time is about family, friends and loved ones. Those are the real gifts!
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