Becky Delbridge, Christmas shopper:

"Almost all of it."

Jesse Garner, Christmas shopper:

"I just started a half an hour ago and I'll be done in about an hour."

Lisa Wise, Christmas shopper:

"I am done. This is my last gift."

Some people are done with Christmas shopping, others are busy buying last minute items and of course there are those who wait 'til the last minute. Either way, money is being spent whether it's borrowed or not.

Debbie Rupe, Debt Reduction Services:

"Spending is what is usual and normal for all of us during the holiday season."

The average credit card balance after the holiday season is $5,000 with a set interest rate of 15% and paying the minimum amount just doesn't cut it. If the card holder made $100 payments every month, it would take 12 years to pay it off with only $33 of each $100 payment going towards the principle. The rest goes towards interest rates.

Rupe:

"Watch what you're spending. A lot of times we tend to overspend. Create yourself a budget and make sure you follow it."

Debbie Rupe at Debt Reduction Services recommends that you give gifts that people need. Buy gift certificates instead of mailing packages out, do an exchange, pay for items with cash only and stock up throughout the year when sales are on. There are things that you should not do, like waiting until the last minute when there's not as much to choose from or paying to have gifts wrapped. Don't forget your shopping list and try not to purchase several gifts for the same person.

Wise:

"I believe in cash only."

Garner:

"I go about half and half. Half debit card, half credit."

Delbridge:

"I don't put anything on my credit card. I use cash for everything so I don't go in debt for Christmas."

If you find yourself in a crunch at the end of the holiday season, programs like Debt Reduction Services can help. There's no minimum or maximum amount of debt required. Contact Debbie Rupe at 239-0500 for more information.