Credit union expert advises Cobb residents to use AI for holiday budgeting

Virginia Credit Union says holiday spending often runs past the cost of gifts and food. Cherry Dale, the institution’s vice president of financial education, said those extra costs can pile up fast in November and December.

Dale told Atlanta News First that people should make a manual list before they open any AI tool. That list should cover travel, decorations, gifts, and hosting. She said AI can organize that data into a budget, but users should keep private information like names and banking details out of the chat.

“You can put generic things like, ‘Hey, I’m hosting eight people for Thanksgiving, and I have six adults, two children. I would like to create a traditional Thanksgiving meal. Can you map out a budget for me with all of this information?’” Dale said. “And it will spit out approximate cost per person.”

Dale said general details are enough to get a personalized plan. The tools can suggest menus and grocery lists. They can also find gift ideas that fit a specific price point. “Use AI, put in, like, ‘I would like a gift for a child that’s interested in piano or theater, or maybe it’s sports. What is something under $10 that would be simple for me to create or to give?’” she said.

Dale recommended thinking beyond store-bought items to save more money. She said a gift of time or a shared experience can mean more than a purchased item. Users can ask the AI for specific suggestions to stay within a set limit.

The advice comes as the holiday season approaches. Dale said the process starts with a simple list and ends with a detailed spending map. No specific date was given for when people should start, but the focus is on November and December expenses.