How to Save Big This Holiday Season with FWCCU

The holidays are here, cue the lights, the music, and, let’s be honest, the spending. Between travel, gifts, and festive gatherings, it’s easy for your December budget to spiral faster than a roll of wrapping paper.

But here’s the thing: the holidays don’t have to derail your financial goals. With a little planning and a few smart moves, you can enjoy the magic of the season and keep your finances merry and bright.

At Fort Worth City Credit Union (FWCCU), we’re all about helping our members spend wisely, save smarter, and start the new year on strong financial footing. That’s why this season, we’re highlighting two ways to keep your budget in check, our Holiday Loan and Skip-A-Pay programs.

Let’s unwrap how both can help you save big and stress less this holiday season.

Plan Ahead, Your Wallet Will Thank You

Impulse shopping is a holiday classic, but not the kind that comes with joy. One quick “add to cart” can turn into a hefty credit card balance come January. Before you hit “buy,” start with a simple holiday budget.

Here’s how to map it out:

  • Make a list of everyone you’re buying for, yes, even your dog.

  • Set a spending limit for each person.

  • Factor in extras like food, travel, and decorations.

If your budget feels tight, don’t panic. This is where a credit union can make a difference. A short-term, low-rate Holiday Loan can help you handle seasonal costs responsibly, no maxed-out credit cards, no surprise interest rates.

FWCCU Tip: Borrow what you need, not what you can. FWCCU’s Holiday Loan starts at just $1,000, with rates as low as 8.69% APR* and flexible terms up to 36 months. It’s an easy, affordable way to spread out your holiday expenses without snowballing debt.

Skip the Stress, Literally

One of the easiest ways to free up cash this season? Take advantage of FWCCU’s Holiday Skip-A-Pay program.

Here’s how it works: if you’ve made consistent, on-time payments on your eligible loan, you can skip one monthly payment during December. That’s one less bill to worry about — and extra cash in your pocket for gifts, travel, or holiday emergencies.

It’s our way of giving you a little breathing room when you need it most.

Why members love Skip-A-Pay:

  • It’s easy to apply online.

  • It keeps your cash flow flexible during the holidays.

  • It helps you manage expenses without falling behind.

Use Credit Wisely

Credit cards can be handy for holiday purchases, specially if you earn rewards, but they can also lead to post-holiday regret. The average American takes about four months to pay off holiday credit card debt.

If you’re planning to finance your holiday spending, a fixed-rate personal loan (like FWCCU’s Holiday Loan) can be the smarter choice. Unlike revolving credit cards, a fixed loan means:

  • Predictable monthly payments

  • A clear payoff date

  • Lower interest rates

  • No temptation to overspend

It’s a responsible way to fund your holiday season while protecting your long-term financial wellness.

Focus on Meaningful Spending

The best gifts don’t always come with a receipt. Instead of overspending on trendy gadgets or luxury items, think about what truly matters, quality time, shared experiences, and thoughtful gestures.

Affordable gift ideas that go a long way:

  • A homemade dessert or coffee mix in a jar

  • A framed photo or digital scrapbook

  • A “coupon book” of free babysitting, errands, or pet-sitting

  • A day trip to explore Fort Worth with family

These gifts show care, creativity, and connection, not just a swipe of your card.

Protect Your Finances During the Rush

Scammers love the holidays almost as much as we do. Stay alert when shopping online or donating to seasonal causes.

FWCCU Security Tips:

  • Only shop on secure, trusted websites (look for “https://”).

  • Avoid clicking on email links from unknown senders.

  • Monitor your account frequently through FWCCU Online or Mobile Banking.

  • Set up transaction alerts to stay informed of every purchase.

Your credit union’s fraud protection tools work hard behind the scenes — but staying cautious gives you an extra layer of security.

Lean on Your Credit Union, We’re Here to Help

Whether you’re planning holiday travel, managing expenses, or catching up after a busy year, FWCCU is more than just your financial institution, we’re your partner.

Our Holiday Loan and Skip-A-Pay programs are designed to make life a little easier while keeping your financial goals on track.

Here’s what you can expect this season:

  • Holiday Loans as low as 8.69% APR*

  • Loan amounts from $1,000 to $10,000

  • Flexible terms up to 36 months

  • Skip-A-Pay available on eligible loans

  • Fast online applications and friendly local service

Keep the Joy, Ditch the Debt

The holidays are about connection, gratitude, and community, not financial stress. By planning ahead, using your FWCCU member benefits, and staying mindful about spending, you can have a season that’s both meaningful and manageable.

Whether you’re borrowing for gifts, skipping a payment for extra breathing room, or simply planning smarter, we’re here to help every step of the way.

Because at Fort Worth City Credit Union, we believe that financial wellness should never take a holiday.

Ready to save big this season?
Apply for your Holiday Loan or request Skip-A-Pay today!
Learn more at fwccu.org/holidayloan

Dominique Phongsavath