ME&MEE

It seems like the holiday shopping season arrives earlier and earlier every year. With an increase in spending and the craziness of the holidays, it’s easy to lose sight of your finances. The tips below won’t stop you from slapping down that credit card, but they can help protect what’s left of your wallet. Check out this week’s Top Ten for tips to help protect your finances.

1. Carry only one or two credit cards in your wallet and only carry identification information that you will actually need when you go out.

2. Review your bank and credit card statements monthly and contact the company immediately if you notice anything suspicious.

3. Check your credit reports from the three major credit bureaus at least twice a year and correct any inaccuracies.

4. Avoid paying by credit card if you think the business does not use adequate safeguards to protect your personal information.

5. If your bank statement is late by more than a couple of days, call your credit card company or bank to confirm your billing address and account balances.

6. Do not carry your social security card in your wallet; leave it in a secure place.

7. If your purse or wallet was stolen, report it to the policy immediately.

8. Place unusual passwords on your credit card, bank, and telephone accounts.

9. If shopping online, use anti-virus and anti-spyware software and make sure to update them regularly.

10. Cancel all unused credit card accounts. Even though you do not use them, their account numbers are recorded on your credit report.