If you're like the millions caught with an empty wallet year after year when the gift-giving season shows up in mid-December, it's not too late to turn things around. Make plans to do things differently in the coming year.

Inevitably, good intentions fade and we all find ourselves bellying up to the checkout counter on Dec. 24, credit cards clutched in one sweaty hand and the better-than-nothing gifts in the other.

As the fourth quarter gears up, start planning now for the predictable expenses. Start a savings account and find ways to siphon money into it from your regular budget so that this year, when the Christmas tree in the mall goes up the day after Thanksgiving, you're there with a fistful of cash and a shopping list that's already halfway completed.

And, if your savings need a boost, try raising some extra funds by selling some of your unwanted items through eBay or a garage sale.

Save now for holiday spending

Money-saving ways to get ready for the holidays early   If you think September is too soon to think about the holidays then you're already behind. Catch up by employing some of these money saving tips. Best ways to save for the holidays   There are a plethora of places to stash some holiday cash. Under the mattress or in an old sock are not the best places for your savings, but some of these options just might be. A Christmas club account can tame post-holiday bills   As quaint an idea as even Norman Rockwell could have conjured, Christmas club accounts are a convenient way to hide money until the holidays. 10 ways to save $500 or more   Use these frugal tips to squeeze the life out of every dollar. If you feel like you're losing money fast, find out where the leak is and plug it! Where to sell your junk for cash   Did you know that someone out there may actually be looking for the unicorn and rainbow foil print you bought in 1984? Here's how it could make you rich. Or at least a little bit richer. Holiday spending calculator   Prevent overspending by figuring out your holiday budget ahead of time.