Holiday Debt 2025: Don’t Let January Ruin Your Glow-Up

47% of Americans will go into debt this December — that’s the highest ever. Credit card balances? $1.23 TRILLION and climbing. Average gift spend? Still $1,100+ even with “cuts.” Result → 36% of us are STILL paying off last year’s Christmas. 😭

(Source: prnewswire.com and southermarylandchronicle.com)

Break the cycle in 2025 — 8 dead-simple moves:

1. Budget max 1–2% of your yearly pay (example: $60k income = $600–$1,200 total)
2. Cash or debit only — no exceptions 🎅
3. Make a list, name every gift + dollar cap
4. Shop early deals (Black Friday already started!)
5. DIY or experience gifts > stuff
6. Secret Santa with friends/family
7. Say “we’re doing low-spend this year” (people respect it!)
8. Open a “Holiday 2026” savings account TODAY — start with $25

You deserve lights, laughs, and zero debt hangovers. Which tip are you stealing this year? Drop it below! 👇✨

Erica Lawton your FarmGal Realtor in Western and Central Wisconsin

#HolidayDebt2025 #DebtFreeChristmas #MoneyTips #December2025