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Shoppers can avoid stress, potential scams and overspending by planning in advance says Florida’s Attorney General. The AG’s office recommends doing some research on any new holiday-related scams and potential pitfalls. Sandi Copes, a spokesperson for the Attorney General is also suggesting families make a shopping list ahead of time and stick to a budget in order to avoid excessive debt.

“One thing that’s important for consumers to do is make a budget and keep to it, just because we don’t want people to end up with excessive debt for the holiday shopping,” Copes said. “It’s always fun to go out and find the perfect present for the people on your list, but we want to make sure that consumers are keeping in mind that their finances are impacted by these purchases and not get in over their heads.”

Tips for a successful shopping season include:

Reading sale ads carefully. Some ads may say “quantities limited,” “no
rain checks,” or “not available at all stores.”

Look for price-matching policies. Some merchants will match, or even
beat, a competitor’s price.

Ask about sales adjustments. If you buy an item that goes on sale the
next week, can you get a credit or refund?