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Why is this article about avoiding credit card debt next Christmas and not this Christmas? Well, the chances are it is too late this year and the little plastic demon has already made an appearance, or it soon will…

Why do we do it? Every year millions of us over-shop, over-eat, and over-spend. We simply must fill our cupboards with enough food for months when in reality the festive period lasts only a couple of days, and it has become the norm to spoil our family and friends with an abundance of overpriced gifts.

Naturally, the financial burden of providing for all of this overindulgence has to be relieved somehow, and inevitably the credit card is all too willing to take the strain. But it doesn’t have to be like this, there are ways of coping at Christmas without getting into credit card debt.

The first and most obvious strategy is simply to cut down on your spending. Loved ones shouldn’t have to go without, and indeed it would be quite wrong if they did, but do you really have to buy them so much? And if you are in the habit of throwing out of date and unwanted food away in the first week of the New Year, then perhaps you are buying a little too much? Cutting down just a little can make a big difference.

Secondly, remember that Christmas comes around every year at the same time. It should not be a surprise that you suddenly need more money at this time of year, so start planning for next year now. Join a Christmas savings club and start paying into it during the first week after the festive holiday. It’s surprising how much of a difference saving just a few pounds each week can make to your Christmas finances. But the more you save the more you can spend, so save as much as you can afford. Once you get into the habit you won’t even miss it each week, and you will reap the rewards when the time comes.

On the subject of planning ahead; have you noticed that stores sell off Christmas cards, decorations, and other paraphernalia at giveaway prices just after the holiday period? This is the time to buy and put things away for the next season!

In conclusion, you don’t have to become Ebeneezer Scrooge and have a miserable holiday, but you can avoid credit card debt next year simply by cutting down a little on spending and taking some time to plan ahead. Have a merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

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Yes, low APR credit cards are on the rise. Many credit cards are competing for your business to give you the best and lowest rates available today. There are so many credit cards from you to choose from that they are doing all kinds of things to get your attention including lowering their interest rate and giving you no annual fees.

Why is this happening? Because there are so many credit card companies. They all want your business and this is an attractive incentive to get you to apply and own one of their credit cards. If you choose a low APR credit card over one with 19.99 percent you are sure to go with the lower APR.

The only problem is that sometime these 0% and low APR credit cards are only promotional ways to get you to apply and then later your interest rate will rise. Many credit card companies have low APR credit cards for a certain amount of time such as 3 months, 6 months and some up to one year. You will have to compare to find out which one keeps the lower APR after the promotional period to ensure you are getting the best deal around.

No matter what the reason low APR credit cards are here to stay as long as the companies are competing for your business. Just remember to compare everything they offer besides the lower interest rate. You may find that several credit card companies are now offering other wonderful incentives for you to apply with them such as reward programs.

No matter which company you choose, you will enjoy the low APR credit cards even if it is only for a limited time. You will be able to save money on your purchases because you will not have to pay any interest until the promotional period is over. Just be sure your balance is very low when the interest rate kicks in and you will be fine.