The National Retail Federation expects the average shopper to spend roughly $1,000 on gifts this Christmas —up about $40 from the year before.
You could end up spending even more, depending on how you pay for it.
According to the U.S. Federal Reserve, nearly half of Americans say they couldn't cover an emergency expense over $400.
Consumer protection attorney Gordon Leech explains how the interest rate can vary wildly after those flashy offers expire.
"Good credit helps you it certainly helps you but it doesn't mean that whoever you're getting the credit from is actually giving you the best rate you ought to get," Leach said.
Layaway is another option to get what you want without it affecting your credit or paying interest.
The Better Business Bureau Serving Wisconsin points out the drawbacks include down payments and fees.
"What if you're halfway through and you decide you don't want it anymore what kind of refund do you get? Do you get any of it back do you get all of it back?" said Jim Temmer, president of BBB Serving Wisconsin.
The number one point the BBB president says is to make sure to stick to your budget. As hard as it is, do not buy what you cannot afford.
