The Carr Report: How to avoid debt while Christmas shopping this year

Getty Images Can you believe it’s December already? Christmas decorations are everywhere, holiday music fills the air, and retailers are rolling out extended hours and irresistible sales to tempt you into spending. Every charitable organization is asking for donations, co-workers are pooling money for office gifts, and family members are dropping not-so-subtle hints about what they want under the tree. Even your church might be passing the plate for a gift for the pastor. You believe in your heart that “it’s better to give than to receive,” but let’s be honest—your wallet is screaming, “Give me a break!” Mortgage, car payments, student loans, utility bills, and Uncle Sam are all vying for your attention. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed and tempted to overspend just to keep up with the spirit of giving. As a financial advisor, I’ve heard it all. You want to make ends meet without falling into the debt trap. You dream of starting a Christmas savings fund in January, but let’s face it—life happens. By the time December rolls around, you’re scrambling to figure out how to make it all work without skipping bills or swiping credit cards you can’t afford to pay off. But here’s the...