Local expert recommends financial 'Christmas in July' – Indianapolis News | Indiana Weather | Indiana Traffic

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — With less than 150 days until Dec. 25, a local family finance expert recommends Santa — or his helpers — start shopping now.

“It's Christmas in July,” says Adam Young, area manager for Everwise Credit Union, a frequent guest on Daybreak on WISH-TV. “What better time to think about holiday spending than now?”

Young says you can spend less, shop smarter and smile more if you get into the holiday spirit months in advance — rather than waiting for the “traditional” shopping frenzy of Black Friday, Small Business Saturday or Cyber ​​Monday.

“I would go as far as to say that there may even be more benefits now than there were then,” Young explains. “I mean, retailers know that's when everyone is shopping, but they're trying to get you to buy some things at this time of year. You might even find better deals just by being proactive.”

Young says a successful Christmas can be broken down into three themes in July, August and September.

Start now for maximum effect

• Provides more time to get work done
• Spread your savings
• You spend your money wisely
• You avoid the use of loans

Build your bank account

• Set a budget as long as there is no year-end pressure
• Set goals that help you stay focused
• Automate transfers to a secondary account specifically for vacation expenses
• Review spending and learn from the past

Maximize your savings

• Create a shopping list now to keep track of gifts and secure great prices to stay within budget.
• Benefit from special offers and discounts all year round

“That way you can start saving and maybe even buy a few things now,” Young said. “That way you won't be as stressed when you get there. And it will make the season a lot easier.”