The Thanksgiving holiday is fast approaching. That means enjoying lots of turkey with a somewhat smaller group than usual this year. The COVID-19 pandemic has changed our lives and the way we do things, but hopefully not forever. Although we might not have a “typical” Black Friday this year, it’s guaranteed you can still expect that the holiday “typical” financial burdens will still haunt us.

Thanksgiving continues to kick off the start of our holiday shopping, and while we might be buying more online, the fact remains that holidays cost money. The folks at Mashable can help you learn what your favorite retailer is planning. Some stores like Target, Kohl’s and Walmart have already decided not to open on Thanksgiving, so be sure to get all the news and updates before you head out. For those cautious shoppers, most retailers have you covered, as well, with online sales taking place now through Christmas.

If you visit Silive.com you will discover how consumers plan to spend their money this holiday season. Despite the ongoing coronavirus, consumers say they plan to spend an average of $997.79 on gifts and holiday items like decorations and food, and additional “non-gift” purchases for themselves and their families. They also plan to do most of it online, according to the National Retail Federation (NRF) and Prosper Insights & Analytics.

But, exceeding your budget is no way to begin the new year. That’s why, right now, VacationLand Federal Credit Union is here to help make your holidays brighter. After all we have endured this past year, a glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel is just what you need. VacationLand FCU can make gift giving easy and affordable with our Personal Loan Special!

For those who qualify, you can borrow between $900 and $2,500 with 12 months to repay, a 5.99% APR, and no loan processing fees. Our Personal Loans are ideal for not only gifts, but for engagement and wedding items, remodeling and landscaping projects, vacations, and any other expenses you might have.

David Bakke, a personal finance expert at Money Crashers, suggests that if you’re interested in obtaining a personal loan, you’ll most likely get a better rate from your current credit union than with a lender with whom you have no relationship. Begin by getting a copy of your credit report and review it for any errors, Bakke recommends. Correct any discrepancies to improve your credit score. Then, give us a call at 1-800-691-9299 for more details or to make an appointment at any of our convenient locations in Sandusky, Norwalk, Huron and Vermilion.

As Thanksgiving approaches, we remember that a little thanks goes a long way. This year, especially, Vacationland Federal Credit Union is thankful for our loyal members, our ability to help others in need, and thankful to our staff of professionals whose hard work and dedication helped us make it through these difficult months of the pandemic. “We often take for granted the very things that most deserve our gratitude” is a quote by American short-story writer Cynthia Ozick. VacationLand Federal Credit Union would not exist without our members. We wouldn’t exist without our employees. We wouldn’t exist without our Board of Directors. We are thankful for all of you.