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There are many things that can cause angst for consumers during the holiday season including travel delays, overeating, and picking a New Year’s resolution.
One of the biggest stressors is often the financial impact of holiday shopping. In fact, according to a national survey by Experian, many respondents are concerned about the financial stress of gift buying and adding debt, as well as becoming an identity theft victim.
While some survey respondents feel cheerful (39 percent) and excited (38 percent) about the holidays, many believe holiday shopping is a strain (60 percent), and almost half feel obligated to spend more than they can afford (41 percent).
How will they pay for holiday gifts? They will be using credit as almost half of those surveyed plan to use credit for about 25 percent of their expenditures. Unfortunately, missing payments or opening new cards can damage a consumer’s credit profile – ten percent of respondents say holiday shopping has negatively affected their credit scores.
Another concern for consumers is the risk of identity theft (50 percent). Survey respondents feel the risk is both present while shopping at “brick and mortar” retail locations or online with 55 percent choosing both as equally vulnerable. While 30 percent of respondents cite online shopping as riskier, almost half still plan to shop online.
View the full report in the SlideShare deck below: