Holiday bonus done right: Smart ways to stretch your extra cash

As the year winds down and the excitement of holiday bonuses builds up, many Filipinos are thinking about how to make the most of their 13th-month pay. Whether it’s saving, investing, or rewarding yourself for a year of hard work, there are many ways to maximize your hard-earned cash.

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Here are some ideas on how to use your 13th-month pay on meaningful and memorable experiences.

Have some R&R 

The holiday season is the perfect time to schedule a vacation for some rest and relaxation. Be it solo or with family and friends, taking some time off isn’t just a treat; it’s essential for your well-being to recharge and reconnect with your loved ones. 

With a few travel hacks—like bundling flights and accommodations, using rewards points, and choosing staycation deals—you can enjoy a well-deserved break without overspending. This way, you’ll stretch your bonus further, leaving you refreshed and ready to start the new year on a high note, both financially and personally. 

Upgrade your gadget 

As the new year approaches, this is a good time to update gadgets as the constant use naturally wears them down. Hence, using the holiday bonus to spend on the latest device can also be a wise choice. Investing in tech that offers better performance, reliability, and enhanced features may help set you up for a more efficient and enjoyable year ahead. 

You can shop for gadgets by heavily researching on the specs and seeing which one aligns with your preferences. Many retailers offer extra trade-in value or additional discounts during sales seasons like Christmas or New Year. Keep an eye on these periods to maximize your gadget’s trade-in worth. 

Indulge in a self-care day 

This is the perfect time for a fresh start! Whether it’s a much-needed massage or a new haircut to kick off the year with confidence, using your holiday bonus for some self-care can be a great investment. 

To make the most of your budget, look for holiday promos or discounts at local salons or spas. If a cozy day at home sounds better, consider treating yourself to high-quality skincare items like face masks or bath oils, and set the mood with spa essentials like scented candles. Make sure to keep your eyes peeled for those Christmas sales. 

Consider life insurance as a smart investment 

The holiday bonus can be more than just a reward—it’s also an opportunity to invest in a happier, healthier, and more secure future. One great way to make the most of it is by putting it towards a comprehensive life insurance plan, like EastWest Ageas’ Life Advantage. 

Through this, Filipinos have a solid safety net for whatever life may bring, along with the potential to grow their financial well-being over time. For instance, policyholders can use part of their 13^th month pay to start building retirement funds, with a guaranteed yearly cash payouts beginning as early as the sixth year and continuing until the age of 100. 

Additionally, this plan offers peace of mind for families during emergencies, providing up to twice the sum insured or total premiums paid, along with a protection booster starting in the 11th year. 

With Life Advantage, you get the flexibility to add benefits tailored to your needs, combining financial security with the autonomy to plan for life’s different stages. Learn more about maximizing your bonus with this wise investment by visiting www.ewageas.com.ph.