7 Merry Ways to Fill Your Christmas Savings Account (2024)

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by Jamie Jeffers | 7 Days of Finding Money for Christmas Presents, Holidays, Saving Money | 37 comments

7 Merry Ways to Fill Your Christmas Savings Account (1)

If you struggle each year to find gift money, don’t wait for Christmas to sneak up on you again. Try these 7 ways to fill your Christmas savings account.

Christmas money? Now? Why should I worry about Christmas money in the middle of summer or early fall? I have bigger fish to fry.

Well, you should worry about it. Because it’s coming, friends.

Many of us treat Christmas purchases like unexpected expenses. December comes along, and we find ourselves putting gifts on a credit card. After all, we want to get gifts for loved ones and we can’t find another way to do it. We’ll just pay the bills later.

It’s a habit that never ends well. Honestly, I’ve even done it myself a time or two. (That’s just another reason why we had to learn how to get out of debt.)

But there’s another way.

How to Fill Your Christmas Savings Account

I can hear you now! You’re saying, “But Jamie, I can’t do it. I know I should just open a Christmas savings account at my bank and deposit money there from each check. But I don’t have the extra money!”

That’s a great way for some people to save. But if that’s not an option for you, don’t worry. This series is focused on finding different ways to pile up Christmas money.

In fact, I was able to find 7 other ways to help you fill your Christmas savings account.

And the sooner you use these methods, the more money you’ll have available to you come December.

[clickToTweet tweet=”Learn 7 different ways to find money to pay for Christmas gifts. #Christmaspresents” quote=”Learn 7 different ways to find money to pay for Christmas gifts.” theme=”style1″]

When you think of it that way, why wouldn’t you start planning now?!

7 Merry Ways to Fill Your Christmas Savings Account (2)

Be sure to pin this photo to keep up with this series!

Scroll to the bottom to see links to all 7 days of the series.

Reasons why shopping for gifts might be stressful for you.

  • Maybe you are struggling financially now and aren’t even sure how you will get gifts for your closest loved ones (especially the kids).
  • Maybe you’re in debt and so tired of worrying about it. The last thing you want to do is fund yet another Christmas with a pile of plastic cards.
  • Maybe you have so many people to buy for that you are exhausted just thinking about it.
  • Maybe you want to have the chance to give to the needy at Christmas, but that’s just when you have nothing extra to give.

Ifyou can relate to any of those reasons, this series is for you!

My hope is that this series will give you hope and eventually some peace at the thought of gift giving this season.

7 Merry Ways to Fill Your Christmas Savings Account (3)

Check out all 7 Ways to Pile Up Christmas Money:

  • Way One: Make a List
  • Way Two: Gift Cards
  • Way Three: Odd Jobs
  • Way Four: Giveaways
  • Way Five: Buy Secondhand
  • Way Six: 9 Simple DIY Present Ideas
  • Way Seven: Simplify

If you are looking for more money saving tips you can use now, be sure to check out my 5 Ways We’ve Saved Money This Week series.

What creative ways do you save money for Christmas?

Find out how our family of 8 keeps a good stockpile of food on a budget. Here are the steps we take that make it easy to always have plenty of food on hand.

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  1. Jessica [Havok]on October 8, 2015 at 11:14 am

    I am on this train for Christmas this year! I’m making a lot of gifts (for the entertainment value to me, and the handmade gift for them) and while it is true that handmade gifts can cost more, I’m trying to only shop sales this year for supplies – so far so good, and two gifts made!

    • Jamie Jefferson October 8, 2015 at 4:38 pm

      That’s great! Smart planning to shop the sales.

  2. Kateon October 8, 2015 at 4:03 pm

    I do a “crafted christmas” almost every year. And, I usually have good luck being able to do things for everyone in my list somehow. I can’t wait to keep up with this, for sure!

    • Jamie Jefferson October 8, 2015 at 4:37 pm

      That’s wonderful! I wish I were more crafty, but nothing seems to turn out right when I try to craft. I think it’s a great option for more talented people though.

    • Jamie Jefferson October 9, 2015 at 12:09 am

      That’s a great plan! Our church is having a rummage sale this weekend, which makes it even easier to part with less loved things in order to make more space around here for better loved items.

  3. Karinaon October 8, 2015 at 6:01 pm

    I don’t usually worry too much about christmas, but I am definitely looking forward to your tips as I am always up for finding ways to find money. I probably won’t use it for christmas presents, but I can save for a trip and consider it a present to myself! Thank you for sharing!

    • Jamie Jefferson October 9, 2015 at 12:11 am

      Hey, use the “found” money however it works best for you! I know that buying gifts can be a stumbling block in our home, so that’s why I am framing it this way. But these tips can definitely be used to fund whatever you are trying to accomplish in your own life. 🙂

  4. Mary-In the boondockson October 8, 2015 at 6:04 pm

    Jamie that is what I am trying to teach my kids to do as well. To ake homemade presents for their friends, and of course I am going to follow my own advice. When you have a large family or are in the midst of an economic crisis, it’s the only option .

    • Jamie Jefferson October 9, 2015 at 12:13 am

      I think it’s great that you are using that as a life lesson for your kids! There are so many ways to celebrate the holidays without breaking the bank.

  5. Heather @ Simply Saveon October 10, 2015 at 11:26 pm

    I’m looking forward to following these posts! I don’t like the stress of waiting until the last minute. Some people are too hard to buy for, so I try to plan ahead. Thanks for sharing on #SmallVictoriesSundayLinkup!

    • Jamie Jefferson October 12, 2015 at 11:18 am

      Sometimes getting the idea is the hardest part, so I think you are off to a good start.

  6. Rabia @TheLieberson October 12, 2015 at 2:05 pm

    I hate skipping so far ahead to Christmas, but you’re right: If you want to be prepared you have to plan ahead! I’m hoping to make a lot of handmade gifts this year and not do a 24hour craft binge on my first day off in December! Gonna make a list of giftees this week.

  7. Vickie @Vickie's Kitchen and Gardenon October 12, 2015 at 7:15 pm

    This sounds like a great series. It’s amazing the little ways you can save each day. Thanks for sharing at the #HomeMattersParty

    • Jamie Jefferson October 12, 2015 at 8:14 pm

      Thank you so much!

  8. April J Harrison October 15, 2015 at 6:16 am

    I agree, Jamie, planning ahead for Christmas is really important! This sounds like a wonderful series and I know it will help lots of people. Thank you so much for sharing it with us at the Hearth and Soul Hop.

    • Jamie Jefferson October 15, 2015 at 9:44 am

      I really do hope that people find it helpful. Thanks for hosting the hop.

  9. Meredith@MommyAtoZon October 16, 2015 at 9:33 pm

    I’ve started planning for the holidays too! We celebrate both Christmas and Hanukkah, so there are many, many gifts to think about. Once that part’s taken care of, I can relax and enjoy the season! Thanks for sharing at the Manic Mondays blog hop!

  10. Thegiftsguyon November 2, 2015 at 2:21 pm

    Those are really good tips you shared. I always tell people that you can buy cheap gifts from 2nd hand stores and places like Craigslist. You can also make your own gifts like you said and save tons.

    • Jamie Jefferson November 2, 2015 at 8:54 pm

      Yes, it really is a great way to stretch the budget! Thanks for reading. 🙂

  11. Petraon November 26, 2015 at 10:01 am

    This loos like a wonderful series! It’s really not hard to live within your means once you make a choice and every little tip helps!

  12. Noel Lorenzoon November 26, 2015 at 8:53 pm

    Great tips! I don’t usually worry too much about gift buying, but I definitely find them useful and look for to your tips as I am always up for finding ways to find money. Happy Holidays and best of luck with finding money for gifts 🙂

  13. Ifeoma Samuelon December 7, 2015 at 11:16 am

    This is lovely, Jamie. This series is definitely needed. Thank you for taking time to share your tips!
    Blessings to you, Jamie

  14. Jessica McDonaldon July 20, 2016 at 9:17 am

    This is a great idea! And I have already been thinking about Christmas! Lol so perfect timing for me to get money-saving tips!

  15. Lisa @ Fun Money Momon July 20, 2016 at 9:43 am

    I need this post! It seems like Christmas always sneaks up on me and I spend way too much money! I can’t wait to read through each day of tips to see how I can ease the Christmas crunch a little!

  16. Charlotteon July 21, 2016 at 6:52 pm

    Shop Target’s toy clearance for kids!

  17. Jess Powell (Babi a Fi)on July 22, 2016 at 2:41 pm

    What an awesome series – I’m definitely going to work my way through! My ‘secret vice’ is entering online competitions so I normally stockpile wins throughout the year for Christmas; the only problem is when you’ve got loads of girly beauty stuff and lots of guys to find presents for… 🙂

    Thanks so much for linking up to #FridayFrivolity!

    • Jamie Jefferson July 22, 2016 at 3:19 pm

      haha! Yeah, but it helps with some of them at least. 🙂

  18. Hannah | Eat, Drink, and Save Moneyon July 23, 2016 at 6:50 am

    This is so smart! It’s important to think about Christmas now. I usually start in October, but could easily start now. I think I will because you’ve inspired me! Thanks!

  19. lorraine Williamsonon July 23, 2016 at 7:48 pm

    thanks for the help we go to the annual christmas mall at the church and that is a big help with christmas plus I do the surveys and rewards programs to help out have a great week

  20. Mel @ brokeGIRLrichon July 24, 2016 at 9:36 pm

    “Well, you should worry about it. Because it’s coming, friends.” Haha, oh my word, that’s the most ominous statement about Christmas. I try to split up my Christmas shopping throughout the year – it’s easier to find things on sale and keeps it all from piling up into one giant expense in December.

  21. Nikki Frank-Hamiltonon July 28, 2016 at 3:48 pm

    So cool. It is coming sooner than we think. This whole year has flown by! I shouldn’t rely on it but starting in early December I work quite a few caterings, this pays for all of our Christmas Gifts and then some. And since I’m now the proud owner of the Make Lemonade Shop quite a few people are going to be receiving personalized pillows! LOL

  22. Robbie @ Use Resources Wiselyon October 16, 2016 at 12:45 pm

    It’s not making money but taking an honest look at needs vs wants helps our grandparents on gift giving.

    • Jamie Jefferson October 16, 2016 at 12:56 pm

      That’s definitely a big one when it comes to saving not only money, but also everyone’s sanity!

7 Merry Ways to Fill Your Christmas Savings Account (2024)

FAQs

7 Merry Ways to Fill Your Christmas Savings Account? ›

These accounts were popular in the 1960s and 1970s, but have become less common in recent years. Today, they are more commonly offered through smaller local credit unions and community banks. The first one was offered in 1909 by the Carlisle Trust Company in Pennsylvania.

Do banks do Christmas clubs anymore? ›

These accounts were popular in the 1960s and 1970s, but have become less common in recent years. Today, they are more commonly offered through smaller local credit unions and community banks. The first one was offered in 1909 by the Carlisle Trust Company in Pennsylvania.

When to start saving for Christmas? ›

The best way to do it? Start saving in January, put aside a little money each month, and you'll be golden come December! But if you're just now starting to save money for Christmas, don't worry. There's still plenty of time to save up a stash of cash between now and then.

How to save for Christmas 2024? ›

The best way to start saving for Christmas next year is to look at your finances and track how much you can realistically save each month. Review your bank statements and assess where your money is spent. Plus, if you can find any miscellaneous direct debits that you don't need anymore and can delete - bonus points!

How does a Christmas savings account work? ›

A Christmas Club Account is an interest-earning savings account that only requires a $100 minimum deposit to open. Look at what you spent on the holidays last year and set a target goal. Break that down by month or pay period and automate your savings throughout the year.

What is the 15 savings rule? ›

The 50/15/5 rule for spending and saving provides guidelines that could make budgeting a little easier. It allocates 50% of your income to essential expenses, 15% to retirement and 5% to short-term savings. The 50/15/5 rule could be a good approach for folks who want to prioritize saving.

Can you withdraw money from a Christmas Club account? ›

A Christmas Club is a savings account to help you save for Christmas. You can set up automatic transfers to help meet your savings goals. On November 1st the funds will be transferred to your savings or checking. A $10 fee may be applied if you withdraw funds before October 31st.

What Christmas Savings Club went bust? ›

In 2006 the Farepack Christmas Club scheme went out of business, leaving 150,000 members without a penny of their savings.

Can I withdraw from Christmas Club account? ›

Early Withdrawal Penalty- We may impose a penalty if you withdraw any or all of the principal before the maturity date. The penalty imposed will be the greater of $5.00 or 7 days simple interest on the amount withdrawn. This account will automatically renew at maturity.

What is a good amount to save for Christmas? ›

A realistic budget for Christmas gifts depends on individual financial circ*mstances. However, a common guideline is to allocate around 1-2% of your annual income for gifts.

How much money should you have for Christmas? ›

Before you start buying gifts, it's important to set a budget. Financial experts often recommend allocating 1% of your annual income for holiday spending. This includes not just gifts, but also decorations, food, and other festivities. This recommendation could be a good starting point for your holiday budgeting.

What is the best account to save for a holiday? ›

To earn the most interest on your 2024 holiday savings, consider putting your funds in a high-yield savings account, short-term CD or money market account.

How long to save $5,000 in a year? ›

You can schedule automatic transfers from checking to savings with most mobile banking apps, and money-saving apps offer extra benefits like round-up transfers on debit card purchases and goal tracking. If you automatically save $193 every two weeks, you'll save over $5,000 by year-end.

How to save $5,000 by the end of the year? ›

To save $5,000 a year, you'll need to set aside just under $420 a month. That's after all your other necessary expenses, like food, transportation, housing, health care, and utilities. If you earn a healthy salary and/or have low expenses, saving $5,000 in a year may only be a matter of reprioritizing your spending.

How to save $10,000 by the end of the year? ›

The easiest way to do this is by setting monthly savings goals. To save $10,000 in a year, you'll need to save about $833 each month, or around $192 per week. You can look through your budget for ways to reallocate more of your money toward savings.

How much is a good amount to save for Christmas? ›

Statista indicates the average U.S. consumer spent about $870 on Christmas gifts during the 2022 holiday season. If your Christmas budget is $450, you'll need to save $38 per week for 12 weeks. If you want to save $800 to meet your Christmas savings plan goals, you've got to put aside $67 per week for 12 weeks.

How does the 52 week challenge work? ›

There are no complicated rules to remember. Week 1, you save $1.00. Week 2 you save $2.00, and it continues through the year, adding one more dollar to each week's savings goal. By Week 52, you'll set aside $52.00, which will bring the year's total savings to $1,378!

What is the 30 30 rule for savings? ›

The 30-30-30-10 rule is a simple, percentage-based budget plan that divides your take-home pay into four categories: 30% for living expenses, 30% for flexible/discretionary spending, 30% for savings, and 10% for debt repayment or investments.

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