Your past money habits could shape your festive season - here’s how to turn things around before 2026

As South Africans gear up for the festive rush (from year-end shopping sprees to travel plans and school-prep expenses for January) many will lean on credit to get through the season. 

But what most people don’t realise is that their past financial behaviour could have a bigger impact on their holiday spending than the cash in their account today.

Banks, retailers and even cellphone providers rely heavily on one thing before approving credit: your credit history. It’s the story of how you’ve used money in the past, whether you’ve paid accounts on time, how much debt you’re carrying and whether any defaults or judgments were recorded. 

Together, that information forms your credit score, a three-digit number that can either open doors or slam them shut.

And during a time of year when finances are already stretched, understanding where you stand might be the difference between a stress-free holiday and one filled with financial setbacks.

Why your past matters - especially in December

For many consumers, the festive season brings extra pressure. Back-to-back costs pile up quickly: gifts, groceries, family gatherings, school uniforms, stationery, transport and more. This often pushes people to take on short-term credit or store accounts.

But lenders don’t make their decisions based on how much you need the money, they look at how reliable you’ve been before. Even a few old missed payments, a high level of debt or an outdated default can affect your chances of being approved or push up your interest rates.

The result? You could pay far more than expected - or be declined altogether.

The good news: your credit story can be rewritten

Your credit history isn’t permanent. And even if you haven’t always handled money perfectly, you can start repairing things now, in time to enter 2026 on a stronger financial footing.

Here’s what financial experts recommend:

1. Start by checking your credit report

This is the same information lenders see. It shows your accounts, payment behaviour, defaults and how much of your available credit you use. If you’ve never checked it — or haven’t in a while — this is the most important step.

Finance365  offers free credit score checks for life, making it easy to monitor your financial health without paying subscription fees or once-off charges.

2. Look for mistakes that may be hurting your score

Incorrect listings, duplicated accounts or defaults that should’ve expired can drag you down unfairly. Disputing errors can result in a quick improvement.

3. Catch up overdue accounts wherever possible

A single late payment has less impact over time, but unpaid accounts continue hurting your score until they’re settled or brought up to date.

4. Avoid maxing out your credit during December

High credit usage signals financial distress. Try to keep balances well below the limit; even if that means scaling back on festive spending.

5. Plan purchases instead of swiping on impulse

A budget - even a simple one - can shield you from January regret.

A better festive season starts with knowing where you stand

Financial stress is one of the biggest contributors to holiday anxiety. But with a clear picture of your credit standing, you can make smarter decisions, avoid unnecessary debt and set yourself up for a healthier 2026.

Finance365’s free-forever credit score checks make it simple to start. No contracts. No charges. Just clarity and the confidence to make better money choices.

Before you swipe for gifts, book travel or apply for credit, check your score. Your future self will thank you.