Association of Independent Consumer Credit Counseling Agencies (AICCCA)

Press Release

AICCCA Says Use Three R's when Back-to-School Shopping

Fairfax, VA - August 18, 2009 — The three R's usually associated with school are "reading, (w)riting and (a)rithmatic." But during tough economic times the three R's associated with recycling - reduce, reuse, recycle - may be just the ticket to help shave school expenses, says the Association of Independent Consumer Credit Counseling Agencies (AICCCA).

"Back to school shopping can be a real strain on the budget, even in the best of times," said Dave Jones, president, AICCCA. "Trimming those costs this year may be more important than ever."

AICCCA offers these tips to reduce reuse and recycle when preparing for back-to-school time:

Reduce. Buy in bulk to reduce your back-to-school costs. Look at each child's school supply list and note items that appear on each one. For instance, paper and pencils are likely to be on everyone's list and are usually cheaper when bought in bulk. Another way to reduce costs is to limit "wants" and focus strictly on "needs" this year. Your child may want designer jeans, but a store brand will cost less.

Reuse. Break out last year's backpacks and look for items that still have some shelf life. Pens, pencils and highlighters may still be good, as well as paper and other supplies. Scissors and rulers generally do not have to be replaced every year.

Recycle. Restore the hand-me-down tradition. Look for those things that your older children may have outgrown that your younger children can still use. Backpacks, lunch kits, calculators and yes, even clothes may have plenty of wear left.

AICCCA reminds consumers to take advantage of their state's tax-free days, shop with a list and compare prices on items they must buy. Plan to pay for purchases with cash on hand. If you must charge some items, have a plan in place to pay off those charges in 90 days or less. If you need help, contact an AICCCA member at 866-703-8787.

Founded in 1993, Association of Independent Consumer Credit Counseling Agencies (AICCCA) is a national membership organization, established to promote quality and consistent delivery of credit counseling services. AICCCA and its members are focused on improved creditor relations, efficient processes and advanced technology to best serve clients and creditors. AICCCA members are independent nonprofit agencies that advocate for debtors, counsel millions of consumers annually nationwide and provide debt management services to consumers with excessive unsecured debt. For more information or to contact an AICCCA member office call 866-703-TRUSTAICCCA (866-703-8787) or visit www.aiccca.org.