money
Keep credit tabs. U.S. consumer debt reached $2.4 trillion in 2006, according to Stephanie McCutchan, founder of Andorra Credit Repair Corp. Here are some of her tips for weathering the holidays without damaging your credit score.
Avoid late payments. One 30-day-late payment will drop your credit score 100 points.
Beware of gimmicks. Even the “10 percent off if you sign up for a card today!” offers. Every time you apply for a new card, your FICO score is negatively affected.
Ask for interest reductions. Many credit card companies will comply if you are in good standing.
If you must use credit, opt for no-interest financing options.
Monitor all three credit bureau reports. Their information varies.
Never use more than 30 percent of a card’s available credit.
Intermittently use all credit cards so they stay active.
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Seasonal pet care. The holidays spark changes in your pet’s surroundings and daily routine. “These disruptions from their normal life can have a negative impact on their disposition, causing stress, fear and undesirable behaviors,” says acclaimed animal trainer Kellyann Conway. Follow these guidelines from her to help alleviate pet stress and counter bad behavior.
Avoid decorating or moving your pets’ sleeping and eating areas.
Pets need plenty of exercise to release stress, especially dogs.
Advise guests not to feed pets human food scraps.
During holiday parties, provide a quiet, safe area where pets can retreat.
When traveling with your pet, remember to bring all necessary items including: an ample supply of food, a leash, eating and drinking bowls, bedding, treats and a favorite toy or two.
Even if your pet is microchipped, he should be wearing an ID tag with current contact numbers.
Acclimating pets to the method in which they will be transported, such as a vehicle or crate, will make their travel experience easier and more pleasant.
