Sundays are financial literacy days here at CPA Success, and with the holiday season in full swing, I figured it's a great time to talk about one of our favorite money management topics.

Namely, how to make it through the holidays without going broke.

First, let's hear from CPAs themselves. The AICPA has compiled some great advice from CPAs nationwide about how Americans can manage their finances during the festive, yet expensive, holiday season. Among the advice:

• Create a budget and stick to it.
• Use cash whenever possible, and leave those credit cards in your wallet.
• Shop around for bargains.
• Get creative. It's possible you can create a perfect gift yourself at a fraction of the cost.

Speaking of getting creative, there are plenty inexpensive holiday gifts out there. You just have to look a little harder to find them. This Money Management column offers details.

And one final note. Watch out for gift cards. They're nothing but trouble.

Shop wisely, everyone, and happy holidays!