Providers of CareOne Credit Counseling Services Offer Independence Day Money-Saving Advice: Tips for Consumers Looking for Financial Independence

Baltimore, MD (PRWEB) July 1, 2008 -- Fireworks, big family picnics, and entertaining kids - these are common elements of Fourth of July events, and they can carry a hefty price tag. With growing consumer debt in the US, providers of CareOne Credit Counseling Services (http://www.careonecredit.com) recognize the need for having a less expensive family celebration this Independence Day without sacrificing any fun.

"People tend to think about getting out of debt around the New Year, but by July they lose their motivation," says CareOne Credit Counseling Services (http://www.careonecredit.com) Spokesperson Clarky Davis. "However, Independence Day is the perfect time for consumers in debt to re-evaluate their plans to achieve financial freedom. If a consumer is in debt, that doesn't mean he or she can't celebrate a holiday or family event this summer, he or she just needs to be extra careful not to overspend."

Providers of CareOne Credit Counseling Services offer the following suggestions for saving money during celebrations this Independence Day:

1. Don't spend money on fireworks. Instead, go to a public fireworks display. Not only will you save money, but these larger, public displays are often more enjoyable to watch. Finally, if the parking cost is an issue, try leaving your car a little bit further away and walking to the event.

2. Scale down food choices at family picnics. It's not uncommon to wind up with leftovers after a picnic, meaning people are spending more than necessary on food. Stock up on inexpensive items (http://www.careonecredit.com/Tips/buy-the-store-brands-107.aspx) ideal for warm weather (such as fruits for a fruit salad, chopped vegetables, or potato chips). These will help curb appetites. You can also focus meals around inexpensive options such as hot dogs rather than steaks and barbecued chicken. Still another option to cut down on costs is to have each guest bring something for the picnic.

3. While it may not be a popular option, you can have a "dry" family picnic or Fourth of July party to cut down on the cost of alcohol. Another option is to make the party BYOB.

4. Consider throwing an inexpensive "green" party this Fourth of July. Avoid using disposable dinnerware if at all possible, especially for large parties. It may be convenient, but the cost does add up. By using reusable materials, you're not only saving money (http://www.careonecredit.com/Tips/free-holiday-entertainment-843.aspx) but also being more environmentally-friendly in the process. If you must use disposable cups, bring markers so they can be labeled to avoid wasted materials if someone forgets which drink is theirs. Focus food choices on things that are locally grown. Avoid using gas or electric to cook the party foods. And of course, use electronic invites instead of paper, which are cheaper as well as better for the environment.

5. Kids can be easily amused, especially outdoors. There's no need to go to events with carnival-like atmospheres of games and rides. Instead, give kids balls, frisbees, water guns, or other simple toys they can play with together. Even adults can organize a baseball, kickball, or other game to kill time and have cost-effective fun.

6. One of the best things about a Fourth of July party is that they don't require a lot of decorations. Parties are often outdoors, and a simple American flag can be decoration enough.

7. Instead of spending a lot of money on soda or other drinks, consider chilling your own water in pitchers or making pitchers of your own iced tea prior to the party.

About CareOne Credit Counseling Services

CareOne Credit Counseling Services is a service mark of 3C Incorporated, and is an industry leader committed to providing consumers with education and debt management services related to improving and maintaining their financial health. CareOne has helped over 4.5 million people pay down debts through the company's solid relationships with over 220,000 creditors. The company was launched in 1999, and is headquartered in Columbia, Maryland.

For more information about CareOne Credit Counseling Services, please visit www.CareOneCredit.com, or contact Clarky Davis at (410) 925-9769.

Contact:

Clarky Davis

CareOne Credit Counseling Services

8930 Stanford Blvd.

Columbia, MD 21045

Phone: (410) 925-9769

Email: cdavis @ careonecredit.com

Web: www.CareOneCredit.com

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