Spending Advice For Your Aguinaldo
If you are government employee, you got your "Aguinaldo" - the annual Christmas bonus yesterday. If you are private sector employee, your employer has until Decemeber 20 to pay up or face sanctions and fines by the Ministerio de Trabajo, if an employee makes a complaint.

So, the question on most people's mind is what to do with the extra cash. Retailers want you to spend it, by offering 'special' pricing on certain goods. But be careful, that 'special' price is not more than a sticker, the regular price was replaced by a sticker with "oferta" on it.

Financial institutions want you to save it, put in their hands and you will earn interest or have it for a rainy day.

Experts provide advice to help you and have made a list of five suggestions:

1. Make a budget with a list of priorities. Paying off existing debt should be the first priority. If you are going to spend it, shop around and thing about spending it on the house; repairs, appliances, etc. The budget should take into account January, the month when all the holiday frenzy is over and the first payday, Jan 15, is a lifesaver for those not wise enough to have put a few colones away.

2. If you are going to buy gifts, make a list and check it twice for who has been naughty or nice. Set a price limit for each gift and stick with it. Don't get sidetracked by speciall offers or spontenaous purchases.

3. Get a receipt and warranty policy for items you buy, especially appliances and electronics. If you want to make an exchange or return, you will need a receipt.

4. Plan your shopping. Compare prices and quality of the same or similar merchandise before make the purchase. Don't wait until the last minute, you will not find the selection and will probably pay more. Don't buy what you don't need or will use, no matter how attractive the offer is.

5. Bring along only money you will spend. Don't, don't bring along extra cash. You will be tempted and will spend. If you are using a debit card, load it with only the amount you plan to spend. If you are using a credit card, all the advice we just gave is useless, so you are on your own.