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December 18, 2015
Egret in Flight
December 18, 2015
Dear Dave,
I woke up this morning and realized I haven’t started Christmas shopping yet. I’ve been listening to you for a long time, and I don’t want to fall in the trap this year of paying outrageous prices for things just because I have waited until the last minute. Can you give me some tips on how to save on Christmas gifts and not overspend?
-Ali
Dear Ali,
My first piece of advice is for next year. Decide now how much you want to spend on Christmas gifts and then divide that number by 12. Set aside that amount each month starting in January, and then you won’t be in a panic when Christmas rolls around next year. Planning ahead always reduces stress when it comes to financial matters.
As for this year, my advice is to be aware of last-minute shopping traps. Many stores understand that people start getting desperate as Christmas draws nearer, and their prices reflect that. Also, stay away from the malls. Some folks may think I’m un-American for saying that, but I don’t care. Our culture has become one of shoppers who run to the mall, pay 120 percent of retail for something, and think they got a bargain because there was a sign that said SALE hanging over the table.
Also, don’t be afraid to negotiate. It may not be comfortable at first, but you can find some great deals if you’re willing to do two things: pay cash and walk away. Once you get in the habit of approaching purchases this way it will become second nature — and fun!
Finally, there are great websites out there like eBay and coolsavings.com. Thinking differently and changing your gift-buying behaviors may be a little tough at first, but trust me, it’s worth the effort. Merry Christmas, Ali!
-Dave
Business license for a seasonal job?
Dear Dave,
I’m starting a side business of putting up Christmas lights for people. Will I need to get a business license?
-Jason
Dear Jason,
You might be getting a late start with a business of this type, but if you manage your time and work hard you can still brighten people’s lives and make a little extra cash.
Most towns don’t require a formal business license for this kind of thing, but you might want to check with your local municipality to be sure. It’s just quick seasonal work where you show up for a couple of hours and hang lights for someone, right? But if you started hiring people or doing something year round, you’d probably need a formal business license.
Regardless, make sure you have a separate checking account so you can keep track of the income and expenses associated with your work. Merry Christmas, Jason!
-Dave
EDITOR’S NOTE:Dave Ramsey is America’s trusted voice on money and business, and CEO of Ramsey Solutions. He has authored five New York Times best-selling books. The Dave Ramsey Show is heard by more than 8.5 million listeners each week on more than 550 radio stations. Dave’s latest project, Every Dollar, provides a free online budget tool. Follow Dave on Twitter at @DaveRamsey and on the web at daveramsey.com.
