Avoiding the Fiscal Cliff by... Regifting?

Money Management International offers new approach to avoiding financial crisis

SUGAR LAND, Texas, Dec. 13, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The two hottest topics of the holiday season this year have undoubtedly been the regifting trend and the impact of the impending financial cliff. While the two are seemingly unrelated, there may be more of an opportunity to align the two than meets the eye.

Nonprofit credit counseling agency Money Management International, creator of the popular regifting website Regiftable.com, urges consumers to consider regifting as an option to save money this holiday season.

"Every little bit you are able to save now has the potential to lessen any impact the fiscal cliff could have come January," said Jo Kerstetter, national spokesperson for Money Management International (MMI).  "And in a tough economy, finding creative ways to cut back will be the key to avoiding a financial setback in the New Year."

Consider this: The average shopper will spend $749.51 this holiday season, according to the National Retail Federation. And, as it currently stands, the fiscal cliff will cause the average U.S. worker to see an annual reduction of about $1,050 in their 2013 salary.

While it's easy to get caught up in the holidays and take an "I'll deal with it later" approach to financial matters, Money Management International warns that this mindset could prove detrimental when it comes time to address the major economic challenges 2013 will likely bring.

"Finding a way to manage all of the post-holiday bills can be difficult enough without the added stress of a potential salary reduction," Kerstetter said. "The good news is, if consumers put the same amount of effort into planning for the New Year as they do the holidays, financial stress can be avoided altogether."

It's important to remember that regifting isn't the only option consumers have for handling their holiday finances. MMI's certified debt counselors are always available to help those who need assistance creating a sustainable budget, and even a manageable plan to repay debt.

About Money Management International
Money Management International (MMI) is a nonprofit, full-service credit-counseling agency, providing confidential financial guidance, financial education, counseling and debt management assistance to consumers since 1958. MMI's counselors are both HUD certified to deliver housing counseling services, including delinquency mortgage counseling, and approved by the EOUST to deliver bankruptcy counseling and education. Counseling is available by appointment in branch offices and 24/7 by telephone and Internet. Services are available in English or Spanish. To learn more, call 800.432.7310 or visit MoneyManagement.org.

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Contact:
Jessica Horton
Community and Media Relations
713.394.5927
[email protected]

SOURCE Money Management International