According to a survey done by the American Psychological Association (APA), money problems are the leading cause of stress during the holidays.

With the holidays just around the corner, IMA of Colorado has given some tips to ease stress and help you stay within your budget.

• Make a list and set limits. Write down everyone you are shopping for and set the maximum dollar limit for everyone on the list.

• Be realistic. Can you really afford it? Tell yourself, if you don’t have the cash for it, then don’t buy it.

• Get ready for next year. Plan ahead. Either shop throughout the year or put money aside everyone month for the upcoming holiday season.

• Get a holiday job. Over 800,000 retailers hired temporary holiday employees in 2007.

Source: IMA, Inc.