Well, it’s that time of year. Christmas is quickly approaching and money is getting tight. Everyone needs a little help around the holidays. Money is in short supply and your gift recipient list may be pretty long. The joy of giving is sometimes dampened by the shortage of funds. But don’t let it get you down this year. We’re going to learn how to stretch that holiday dollar and have the Christmas season that you’ve hoped for.

If high demand products are on your list this year, go for them first. Shop around if possible. Look for retailers’ advertisements promoting popular products. Don’t be afraid to show up hours before the sale and wait if you have to. Saving money and getting what you want may mean that you just need to make a few sacrifices. If you don’t have any luck, check out online availability of the product. Sometimes people buy out the most popular Christmas items in hopes of making money off of them on auction web sites. Check out auctions and determine how much shipping will be before you bid. Try for items that have their auctions ending in the middle of the night or super early morning when everyone else is asleep. A lot of times, you can get what you want with little or no competition, thus, saving you a bundle.

Your next challenge will be to stretch the money that you have left to cover gifts for everyone on your list. My advice is to shop around. Not only will you need to hit sales, but also compare prices between stores. Sometimes stores will compete for your business and honor other store’s promotions. This can come in handy if the store with the sale is far away from your home or work. Also, if the store with the sale sells out of what you want, then you may still be able to get it at the sale price from a competitor. Just bring in the advertisement or coupon that you were going to use and ask around to find out who will honor it.

Garage sales and second-hand stores can be used if you really need to save money and find something unique for that hard to please person on your list. You could find a special antique or vintage team shirt that would surely satisfy that picky sports fan in your life. If you must go for new, then check out close-out stores before the major department stores. Designer labels at discount prices are always a good thing. Don’t forget that they also carry lots of items for the home. You can find art, dishes, living room, bedroom and bathroom decorations for a fraction of what you would pay at a regular retail store.

If you’re really low on money, consider giving coupons for services to your friends and family. You can offer a free yard raking, removal of Christmas lights, a car wash or a free house cleaning. It’s a gift that shows you care even if you can’t afford to give. If you need some Christmas money, you always have the option of getting a loan online. It’s quick and easy with no credit check. You can borrow as little as $500 and pay it back when you get paid. A cash advance

or payday loan can get you through the holiday season with ease.