The holiday season is a stressful time of year for many Americans. According to the American Psychiatric Association (APA), 28% say they are experiencing more holiday stress this year compared to last, with 46% citing affording holiday gifts as a top stressor, right behind grieving a loss/missing a loved one (47%). The pressure is compounded for younger generations facing unprecedented economic barriers in the form of housing, education, debt and more: Over half of 18- to 34-year-olds (54%) reported being “very” or “somewhat” worried about affording holiday gifts compared to just 38% of those 65 and older.

Shopping for gifts on a tight budget is always a holiday challenge, but there are several overlooked tips and tools customers can use to ease the financial burden this year. One strategy to save on holiday shopping is to use what we call “forgotten money.”

Forgotten money includes alternative sources of value that you don’t see in your wallet or bank account, such as:

  • Credit card points and deals: If you have a credit card that earns points or cash back on purchases, now is the time to redeem. Don’t forget to browse your card’s rewards and shopping offers for extra savings.
  • Perks Checking: MFS customers with Perks Checking accounts enjoy deals and discounts on everything from local stores to big brands, not to mention flights, hotels and rental cars for your holiday travel needs.
  • Gift cards: Many people forget they have unused or partially used gift cards lying around the house. You can use the money off those cards for your holiday shopping.
  • Coins: That loose change you throw in your junk drawer every now and then? Bring it to the bank. Unlike other banks or coin machines you find in supermarkets, MFS will deposit coins for customers free of charge. Pro tip: Recycle your soda cans at the grocery store machine to rack up even more extra change.
  • Your closet: Chances are, there’s a lot of cash taking up space in your closet. Clothing in good condition can be sold on sites like Poshmark, Facebook Marketplace, eBay and Cragislist.
  • Unclaimed funds: Every day, New York State returns $1.5 million to citizens who discover they have unclaimed money owed to them. In fact, while writing this article, one MFS employee found two sources of unclaimed funds from the state. Search for unclaimed funds here. (It may take time for the funds to be administered, so think of this as a way to replenish your coffers on the heels of holiday season.)

Other ways to be resourceful during the holidays:

  • Look for freebies: Join your local Buy Nothing group to see if people are looking to offload things they no longer need or want. From working appliances to jewelry to Christmas ornaments, you might find something that’s been on your wishlist or even a quirky item that’s perfect for a holiday gift swap you have on the calendar.
  • Give experiences: Offer to make dinner, do chores, run errands, petsit or babysit instead of buying a gift. Get creative with it: Try crafting your own fun-looking vouchers and wrap them just like regular gifts.
  • MX Money Management: MFS customers have access to this digital budgeting tool that helps you track and tailor your budget with ease so you can feel confident about your seasonal spending.

Commerce tends to take center stage this time of year, but the holidays are really about celebrating, reflecting, and spending the most precious gift of all—time with loved ones. Let your wallet be your guide, and don’t leave what truly counts off your list.