Consumers are far more vulnerable to financial mistakes during this time of year compared to any other. With the official start of the holiday shopping season past, many shoppers will remain on the prowl for gifts weeks to come. Taking a few preventive measures before reaching in one's wallet can pay off in dividends and put a stop to stress before it begins.

One of the most common mistakes people make - and find difficult to avoid - is getting overexcited about sales. Although "Black Friday" sales tend to be the main lure, the feeling often continues several weeks after and can land people in a heap of financial trouble. It's a time when people give themselves permission to buy simply because it's the holiday season, said Mary Cron, Army Community Services financial program manager.

"Some people won't buy things at all during the year because they can talk themselves out of it, but with the holiday season people just go wild," Cron said. "There's just this rush, and so they go out and they're buying loot that's brought on by all of the businesses. It's a camouflaged excuse to be able to go out and buy."

Cron recommends starting off with a list of gift recipients and allotting a designated amount of money for each person. Leave the credit cards at home and use cash. It can save a lot of money in the end.

"People who use debit and credit cards will overspend by 30 percent compared to those who take cash," Cron said. "A lot of it is a little here, a small thing there ... All that stuff adds up really quick when you don't think you bought that much."

Write down the purchases as they're made and keep a tally in order to stay within your designated budget. Keep all receipts in case of impulse purchases or in case you need to return a gift. Before hitting stores, look around the house and see what you already have. Don't be ashamed to re-gift an item; just be certain not to give it back it's original giver.

"If it's going to be sitting on the shelf or you know you aren't going to use it, it's perfectly fine to re-gift it," Cron said.

Difficult as it may be for some to accept, the holidays should not focus on gift giving - especially during a time when so many people are struggling financially because of the economy. For those who are already in debt, Cron's best advice is to stay out of the stores as much as possible and opt to make inexpensive homemade gifts or volunteer time and services in place of venturing to the mall.

"It's not all about the money," Cron said. It's just easier to buy and give than it is to set time aside to spend with them ... But that's what would mean more."

Gift giving provides a short-lived happiness, but true longer lasting happiness is generated from within. Keep that in mind while shopping and you will be less likely to overspend.

"Spending quality time with that person will actually have more of an affect than giving them something," Cron said.

And when the bills start coming in, you'll be able to pay them without worry if you stuck to your budget.

"You'll feel elated that the holiday season is over and you still have money."

From creating a holiday budget to getting out of serious debt, Cron has a staff of ACS financial counselors eager to assist every individual's needs. All financial services are completely free to servicemembers and their Families. To schedule an appointment, stop by ACS in Waller Hall or call 967-7166.

"Instead of going out shopping, come in and let us help you so you can see where you are right now," Cron said. "We're not here to pass judgment. We're here to help you go forward."

OTHER STORIES...

People of the PX

Welcome to the Neighborhood - Daily ideas on area outings

Senate says chaplains don't have to perform gay weddings