How to Save: Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, Cyber Monday

It’s a wonderful time of the year. The days are getting cozy and cold, the kids are out of school, and the hustle and bustle of the holiday season are at the forefront of our minds. Many people are searching for the best deals for everyone on their gift lists and are excitedly waiting for Black Friday to kick off the shopping season. But with so many shopping days like Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday, it’s easy to get overwhelmed with all the different deals and platforms to buy from. We’re here to assist! Let’s break down some shopping tips, which will help you find gifts for everyone on your list. Plus, learn how to make the most of your checking account along the way.

What are the Biggest Shopping Days in America?

• Black Friday is the day after Thanksgiving and is known as the biggest shopping day of the year. Stores have incredibly tempting deals, and people have been known to line up on Thanksgiving evening to be the first to access new and high-value items. This day once was an “in-store” shopping event, but for several years now, retailers have started offering the same deals or equivalents on their websites.
• Small Business Saturday is the Saturday after Thanksgiving and is a shopping initiative designed to encourage the public to buy from small, local businesses. It’s a day to celebrate and support small businesses and their impact on their communities. Of course, small businesses also offer Black Friday and Cyber Monday discounts, but they usually save their best deals for Small Business Saturday.
• Cyber Monday is the Monday after Thanksgiving. This day redirects shoppers’ attention to online stores with amazing discounts. What started as a single shopping day has evolved into a month-long event with endless deals.

How Do I Shop for Gifts Without Going Over Budget?

In the midst of the holiday chaos, people   tend to increase their spending more on presents. Deals and sales are the perfect way to save some money, but it’s easy to get caught up in all the “savings” and mistakenly spend more that you intended. We have some quick tips on getting everything on your list without overspending:

• Start Early: Many retailers have deals throughout the shopping season. Just because Black Friday kicks off the holiday shopping season doesn’t mean you can’t find deals before Thanksgiving.
• Have a List Ready: Before you head out on Black Friday, make a list of what you want and who you’re shopping for. If you don’t find what you’re looking for you can always look online in the following days and get a deal on your items.
• Have a Budget: We know it sounds obvious, but having a budget and sticking to it is the best way to avoid overspending. It’s easy to get caught up in the flashing lights and limited time offers, but that’s because they are designed to tempt you. Before you start shopping, know what you want and how much you’re willing to spend.
• Do Some Research: Many retailers have holiday refund and return policies. Sometimes, they have items that go on sale later in the season. Save your receipts and be proactive.

How Can Academy Bank Help You Save This Holiday Season?

Another way to save money this holiday season is by taking advantage of the rewards from you debit and credit card accounts. Do you worry about your packages getting lost or stolen? With our Select Rewards Checking Account, we offer a Buyers Protection Warranty. When you have finished buying gifts for everyone on your list, you can rest easy knowing that the Buyers Protection Warranty will replace, repair, or reimburse you if your items are damaged, lost, or stolen. This isn’t limited to just you—friends and family members who receive your gifts may also be protected! It’s easy to get started! Call our benefits administrator through the checking rewards app within 45 days of loss or damage and submit a form.

The Checking Rewards app also gives you access to a portal for deals and coupons from national brands and local businesses. The rewards app features dozens of retailers, so you will surely find something for everyone. And the best part? These deals and discounts are not limited to the holidays. Meaning you can save money all year long by shopping from our app.

Sign up for a Select Rewards Checking Account and start saving today, and check out the checking rewards app here!

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