Take the gloom out of holiday finances Published Dec. 19, 2013 By 2nd Lt. Justin Nichols 71st Flying Training Wing Public Affairs VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Heavy holiday spending can lead to a light after-holiday wallet. However, the following steps can save you from the financial woes that often come behind the holiday season. "One of the first things I think people should do is know their budget. Then they should incorporate holiday spending into their budget," said Ruthie Wisdom-McMeans, a financial advisor with the Airman & Family Readiness Center. Wisdom-McMeans said the holiday season is a time of the year when people feel guilty if they do not spend what they think is enough on their family and loved ones. However, if you anticipate the amount of money you want to spend early in the year, you can effectively offset those costs through your budgeting. She said that even if you did not budget holiday spending, you can save yourself a lot of money going into the season by making a list of items you want to buy and sticking to that list. This will eradicate any extraneous spending you might do. According to Wisdom-McMeans, you can also lighten the spending by putting a limit on the amount of money you want to spend and sticking to that amount. "Also, try not to use credit cards when buying presents. That way you do not have a hefty surprise after the holiday season," said Wisdom-McMeans. Do not fall victim to all of those shopping-center credit card offers. She said that even though they offer you a discount, you are just adding another payment to your after-the-holiday-season obligations. If you find yourself in a financial squeeze after the holidays, Wisdom-McMeans suggested going to the "Power Pay" website. By entering the amount you owe on your cards and the interest rate, the site will show you how, by increasing your payment by a small amount, you can pay off your credit cards sooner. The A&FRC offers classes on finances. The next class will be held Dec. 19. It is called "Being Wise About Credit." Wisdom-McMeans said her financial services, available at the A&FRC by appointment, include creating a budget, walking your through the Power Pay site to make a debt-pay down plan and pulling your credit report for free with the qualifying number. "Poor management of your personal finances can lead to the end of your career in the Air Force, so if you can avoid that situation it would be best," said Wisdom-McMeans. "Preventative financial tactics can be put into place beforehand. But if you find yourself there, make an appointment and we'll do our best to help." For more information on holiday finances, contact Wisdom-McMeans at 580-213-7517.