Interest rates are going down again as the feds lowered it another half-point on Wednesday. This follows the three-quarters point last week. The stock market likes the news, but it's a double-edged sword. It encourages Americans to buy more when many are in debt.

Jessica and Jerald Pote just built a new home. Now the family is filling it with new appliances. "We're financing interest free 'til September 2009,” says Jessica.

Zero percent financing is one way stores like Nebraska Furniture Mart can keep shoppers interested in light of evidence of a slowing economy.

The Mart’s Bob Batt says even at 0% for a year-and-a-half, it's important to remember that all things eventually have a price. "People will pay 'em off and if they don't pay 'em off, they are going to pay all the interest back."

"Budget is a consideration." The Potes say they can afford to continue spending, but credit experts say they are seeing evidence that not every family can or should.

"Take a look at your needs and your wants, make sure your needs are covered and then anything you want, a new TV, a new sweater, cut back where you can, take that money, put it into a savings account," says Amanda Hunter of Credit Advisors.

Even some credit card providers have found ways to encourage saving. Bank of America is one of many banks offering a credit card which rounds up every purchase you make and deposits that money right into a savings account.

For shoppers like Demetria Bradley, cash is the only option. "Because of interest rates, I too am getting older and I don't need the bills coming in the mailbox."

And whether you're on a cash budget or a budget that involves credit, experts say the most important thing is that you stick to it, for an economy that's running on a cycle that's looking more and more like it's on delicate.

Whether you're buying a car or something else, 0% finance offers are everywhere. Experts say there is no free money. These are only good deals if you have the money to pay the purchase off at the end.

Some good advice is take the money you're saving with the zero financing and find a way to earn money elsewhere, through savings or investment.