Personal Finance Buzz

This time of year is one in which we often say “thank you” to those who provide us with various services throughout the year. And nothing says “thank you” like a little extra cash.

Year after year, while making small talk at office holiday parties and family gatherings, I would always hear conversations about how homemade gifts or small-scale thoughtful gifts meant so much more than extravagant gifts; others said they wished cash-strapped family members hadn't spent so much. Something clicked. I needed to put some effort into thoughtful, low-cost gifts instead of going all-out at the mall. Here are some great ideas for Christmas gifts on the cheap:

The holidays creep up fast and all of a sudden you realize you need to tip people! But who to tip and how much? Check out some basic guidelines and tips for holiday tipping.

As the economy worsens and more jobs are cut, the time for giving is approaching us. This article deals with ways to try to soothe the pain of being broke during the holidays.

Did you stick to your holiday budget? If you answered no, you’re in good company. At this time of year, many of us expect to blow our budgets. But overspending around the holidays can have a much greater impact on the rest of your year than you think.

PerkStreet Financial’s 5% cash back holiday offer — which includes 14 of the hottest holiday retailers and lasts through the end of the year — has apparently been pretty popular since they kicked it off in the beginning of October.