Valley shoppers hoping to keep debt in check during holiday shopping

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- According to an exclusive Action News poll conducted by SurveyUSA, it appears many holiday shoppers will take a responsible approach with their credit cards. Many Valley households have been stunned by that January credit card bill and a practical approach this Christmas season can help you avoid that scenario.

The holiday bustle has returned to Manchester Center. Bella Rose is a popular stop for women buying boots. Jesus Olivera owns six stores in the Valley. He said most of his customers have been using their credit cards.

"This year I think they're paying a lot more credit than cash," he said. "They're not going out paying cash the way they used to."

But our exclusive Action News poll conducted by SurveyUSA revealed 31 percent of shoppers we talked to say they will pay in cash, 37 percent will pay by debit card and 23 percent will pay for gifts with a credit card but they plan to pay off the full balance. Just seven percent planned to carry a credit card balance.

For Karen and Stan Jones, cash is king.

"I'm just a responsible adult, and I prefer to just use cash then use a credit card because you have interest," Karen said. "If you don't pay it off by a certain time it's going to cost you extra."

"Don't mess with them," Stan said of credit cards. "If you can't afford to pay for them after the holidays don't mess with them. Cash."

Credit counselors say the holidays can be a dangerous time for impulsive shoppers who rack up large amounts of debt, and Karen has a message for young people establishing their credit.

"If you're going to use credit, just pay it on time," she said. "Don't let go past 30 days and you won't have to worry about the interest charge. If you know like I know you'll deal with cash. Cash, cash, cash."

Younger shoppers like Amber Serrato have been saving that cash before she hit the mall.

"I had my birthday the other week so I have all kinds of frickin' money so I'm ready to go get my stuff," she said.

Paying in cash will help you beat the post-holiday blues.