The holiday season is in full swing – whether you’ve wrapped up your list or you’re checking it twice, you’re spreading out your spending, or simply trying to keep your budget a bright as the season. However you shop, your style says a lot about how you manage your money. Take this quick quiz to discover what type of holiday shopper you are and see how we can help you keep the joy high and financial stress low.
When it comes to holiday shopping, you usually…
- Start early with a detailed list and budget for each person.
- Shop as you go but keep a close eye on your spending.
- Wait until December to grab what feels right in the moment.
- Pick up gifts last minute and rely on great deals to pull it together.
How do you decide what to buy for someone?
- I pick thoughtful items I’ve had in mind for a while.
- I look for something meaningful that stays within my budget.
- I browse until something speaks to me.
- I rely on quick ideas, deals, or whatever’s left on the shelf.
How do you pay for most of your holiday purchases?
- I use savings set aside throughout the year.
- I use a rewards credit card and pay it off quickly.
- I mix savings, debit, and credit depending on what works.
- I rely on credit now and plan to handle it after the holidays.
How do you keep track of your spending during the season?
- Monitor every purchase to stay on budget.
- Check in regularly and adjust as needed.
- Glance at my balance when I remember.
- Wait until after the holidays to review the damage.
After the holidays, you usually feel…
- Relieved - I stayed organized and within budget.
- Satisfied - I balanced fun and finances.
- A bit stretched – but happy everything got done.
- Determined – next year, I’ll start planning earlier.
Your Results:
Mostly A’s – The Planner
You’re organized, intentional, and love having your holiday shopping wrapped up before the rush. You budget, compare prices, and make thoughtful choices – and it pays off every year.
Pro Tip: Open a separate checking or savings account and set up a small automatic transfer each pay period. By this time next year, you’ll have a dedicated holiday fund - no stress, no surprises.
Mostly B’s – The Thoughtful Gifter
You strike the perfect balance between planning and flexibility. You enjoy finding meaningful gifts, watching your spending, and making sure everyone on your list feels appreciated.
Pro Tip: Use our Founder’s Rewards card for holiday purchases to earn 1.5%1 or 2% cash rewards on the gifts you’re already buying.
Mostly C’s – The Spontaneous Shopper
You shop when inspiration hits and love discovering gifts that “just feel right.” While your style brings fun to the season, it can sometimes result in unplanned spending.
Pro Tip: Turn on real-time account alerts in digital banking. Alerts for large purchases, low balances, or unusual activity can help you stay aware, keep spending on track, and avoid accidental overspending.
Mostly D’s – The Last-Minute Deal Seeker
You thrive under pressure and enjoy scooping up last-minute finds or deep-discount deals. But shopping close to the deadline can sometimes lead to rushed choices or higher costs.
Pro Tip: Our Classic Card offers no annual fee2 and competitive rates, giving you flexibility and peace of mind for unexpected purchases – whether they’re last-minute gifts, décor, or travel needs.
No matter what kind of Holiday shopper you are, PSECU has tools and resources to help you stretch your budget, track your spending, and shop with confidence. From savings shares and rewards cards to account alerts and digital banking, we're here to support your financial goals during the holidays – and all season long. For more money-saving tips and tools, visit our resource center.
1You can earn 1.5% cash rewards on purchases. You can earn 2% cash rewards on purchases if you maintain a PSECU checking account and qualifying monthly direct deposit(s) of at least $500. Some exclusions may apply. See the Visa® Founder's Card and Visa® Alumni Rewards Card Rewards Program Terms and Conditions for full details.
2APR denotes Annual Percentage Rate. Rates, terms, and conditions are subject to change. Please see the Visa® Classic, Visa® Alumni Classic, and Secured Visa® Credit Card Account Opening Disclosure and the Visa® Classic, Visa® Alumni Classic, and Secured Visa® Consumer Credit Card Agreement and Disclosure for full terms and conditions.
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