Happy New Year! Perhaps you feel a big like I do in a post holiday haze. It’s hard to keep track of the days in late December and early January. If you celebrated a very Merry Christmas, there are a number of things to do to clean up the mess. And I’m not even talking about taking down the tree. Especially if you have financial goals you want to achieve, this Christmas clean up money checklist will help you start the new year off on the right foot.
Return It, Exchange It, Cash It
If you received something that wasn’t the right size, color, or fragrance, don’t let it grow roots in your home. Now is the time to make sure you make your returns and exchanges. Cash those checks from Grandma and do something significant with the money. Don’t let things fall through the cracks. Even if you pass the gift along to someone else may appreciate it more or donate it, give everything a new home.
Check Gift Card Balances
Did you receive a gift card this holiday season? Now is the time to double check those balances. If you can, add the balance of the gift card to digital apps. This is especially helpful for restaurants (think: Starbucks, fast food restaurants) or retailers (Target, Kohls) so you have them handy the next time you’re ready to order. If the gift card doesn’t have a corresponding app, use a Sharpie to write the balance directly on the card. Keep your cards in a designated space so you know where they’re at.
Balance Your Checkbook
If you haven’t opened your banking app in awhile, it’s time to revisit it. Reconcile your spending and begin to think about the month ahead when it comes to your bills. Before you make any financial goals or plans, this simple step can’t be skipped.
Clean Out the Fridge and Pantry
While it may not seem immediately evident, cleaning out the fridge and pantry can help set you on the right path in the new year. Not only will you be able to toss out anything that’s past its prime for the holiday season, you can also reevaluate all you have to possibly eat more at home in the weeks ahead. Doing a quick 1-2-3 reorganize will set you on a better path for spending less in the drive through and at the store in the new year. As you clean, make a list for items that may need replaced. Check out my Pantry Top Ten for ideas of what I always keep on hand.
Scan the Christmas Clearance
You may be feeling over it when it comes to all things Christmas. However, the deals are ripe in the stores and online when it comes to decor, clothing, cards, and more. In particular, I’m looking for deals on next year’s Christmas Eve jammies and a new Christmas tree. If you have cash to pay for it, Christmas clearance is one of the very best ways to save. Don’t forget to look for things like paper goods and personal care items that last all year long regardless of the wrapper or festive print. Check out more of my Christmas clearance money saving strategies here.
In the days ahead, we’ll talk about new leaves and budgets, but you’ve got to cover the basics to begin with a fresh start. And these Christmas Clean Up tips are a great place to begin.
My book is now available: Slaying the Debt Dragon: How One Family Conquered Their Money Monster and Found an Inspired Happily Ever After. You can also check out The Debt Free Devotional
This post contains an affiliate link. That means when you get a great deal, learn about a way to save, or maybe even something for free, I may end up making a small commission. All prices are subject to change.
