Better Budget For Holiday Costs

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Nathan Moore

OMAHA (KPTM) - The ghosts and goblins were out Friday but a much scarier event is just on the horizon; holiday shopping. The struggling economy is forcing a lot of people to budget a little differently this year.

It might seem a little early to start that holiday buying but experts say it's the perfect time to hit the stores. The sounds of the holiday shopping season starting a little earlier this year. "I have to get them clothes and video games," said Brandy Holley.

Shoppers like Brandy Holley aren't only hitting the stores for holiday gifts on Halloween, they're taking advantage of special programs like layaway.

"There's no way I can afford to do it at once so with layaway, me paying on it here and there, it helps me a whole lot," said Holley.

Experts say with Christmas just eight weeks away, it's a year of firsts. Not only are shoppers getting a head start, layaway is reinventing itself as a popular option.

"Layaway is a pay as you go type of option. A lot of people are trying to avoid putting additional debt on their credit cards," said Michaela Harper.

Stores like K-Mart are seeing the trend too. This store on 50th and L Streets has offered layaway for 30 years. Store managers say this year they've seen a nearly 30% increase in shoppers using the service.

"This gives them a fair start and know what their payments are going to be and really what they can afford and if since there's a chance not to rack up 20% interest on a credit card," said K-Mart Manager Brad Diers.

Interest Holley doesn't want giving her a holiday hangover "I have four kids I can't go out and buy things, so layaway helps a lot and I am very grateful for it," said Holley.

K-Mart managers say nearly 1.4 million people use the layaway program nationwide. Experts suggests a couple of things: First of all, make a list and stick to it. That way you don't buy anything unnecessary. Have and plan and don't try and do your shopping all in one day, go for the sales at different places.