As part of our commitment to the community, Popular Community Bank (PCB) offers helpful tips to make Black Friday a successful, enjoyable, and safe shopping experience. Above all, we advocate a considerate and friendly approach to shopping to make an otherwise hectic day pleasant for you, other shoppers, and retailers!

Try these twelve helpful tips to get a jumpstart and save money on your holiday shopping:

Behold Your Budget

Carrying cash is a great way to stay on budget. But many shoppers find debit and credit cards safer and more convenient than carrying cash. If you use your debit and credit cards for Black Friday deals, follow these recommendations to stay on budget and avoid unwanted bills and interest fees after the holidays:

• Calculate your budget before you begin shopping
• Use the calculator on your phone to stick with your budget goals as you shop
• Use a prepaid, reloadable debit card to limit spending
• Use PCB’s mobile iPhone® and Android™ apps to make convenient on-the-go transfers, see your account balance(s), search recent account activity, find the nearest ATM or branch, deposit checks, and pay bills

Dope Out Deals

Checking out online ads and comparing prices before you shop can help you get the best possible deals. Dealnews.com, BlackFriday.info, and Bfads.net typically post savings ads well before Black Friday.

Compare Costs

When you see a great deal, visit Shopping.com and PriceGrabber.com to comparison shop and confirm you’re getting the lowest price.

Deepen Discounts

Check newspapers, magazines, and the Internet for coupons and discount codes for additional savings on Black Friday deals. Be sure to cut or print out coupons and bring them along when you shop. When you’re ready to make a purchase, don’t forget to ask one or each of these questions according to your needs:

• Can you please do better on prices for individual items since I’m buying multiple items?
• Can you please waive assembly charges?
• Can you please offer me a rain check since you have sold out of the product I’d like?

Miss the Mob

Early birds often benefit from extra discounts on Black Friday. Some merchants offer early bird discounts on Thanksgiving day, Thursday at midnight before Black Friday, and at the crack of dawn on Black Friday. Once you identify where you’d like to shop, confirm hours, early bird discounts, and night owl savings online or by calling the retailer. In addition to saving some extra dollars, you’ll enjoy avoiding Black Friday crowds!

Forage With Friends

Shopping with friends has many advantages, including alleviating parking issues if you travel in the same car and dividing your group so that each of you can maximize your time and ensure you get products in limited supply. You also might get a kick out of sharing your finds and, well, have fun just being together! 

Arrive With Ads

Stores offering lowest-price ads usually require proof of competitors’ offers to confirm and honor a lower price. Avoid frustration and save time by bringing newspaper ads, magazine ads, online ads, and coupons with you when you shop. Although it’s a good idea to ask retailers to honor Internet prices, remember that many do not.

Capitalize on Credit Card Campaigns

Many credit card companies offer free benefits, including extended free warranties, return protection, and sale price protection. For example, some credit card companies double or triple manufacturer warranties and eliminate the need for less-desirable service contracts. They also may guarantee refunds up to 90 days, which many stores do not. And in some cases, credit card companies offer refunds for additional markdowns that occur within a certain number of (typically 60) days of the purchase.

Optimize Online Options

If you prefer a tranquil Black Friday shopping experience, shop for online specials beginning at midnight on Thursday, Thanksgiving night.

Retain Receipts

Many retailers significantly and permanently reduce prices immediately after Black Friday. If you have returns, keeping your receipts will ensure you get what you paid for the product(s) you return. Gift receipts are a discreet way to ensure your friends and loved ones can return/exchange gifts without a hassle.

Scrutinize Sale Stuff

Although door busters often sell products below retailers’ costs, the products are rarely those with brand names. Despite the potential bargain and to avoid future disappointment, ensure the product is exactly what you want or that you’ll be ok with trading quality/brand/features for price.

Buyer, Beware!

Some retailers charge restocking fees as high as 15 percent, especially for electronics. In addition, many retailers have a 30-day limit for Black Friday returns. For these reasons, it’s best to review the seller’s return policy before making your purchase. In addition to asking a salesperson about return policies, it’s wise to check the seller’s website and read signs at the cash register to confirm the policy.

As always, we are here to help you with all your banking needs. Notify us immediately if your bankcard or identification has been compromised.

Happy Black Friday shopping!