New Year Goals for 2011

Happy New Year!! I do hope that 2011 will be a healthy and happy year for all. But we all do need to be proactive and take care of business. So don’t wait to take care of those essential necessities in life. I did a little research about New Year’s Resolutions or Goals and put together a list. I know you know what’s number one on my list! But that of course, is even after taking care of your health. Your health should always be # 1 on your list. Think of it this way, if you take care of your legal life, the rest of the year you can enjoy. So while you are on that treadmill or taking that yoga class YOU need to make your appointment and get your financial and Legal life in order! You will have peace of mind once you do. Blessings, Click HERE to view my blog

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Improving your Economic Well Being

1. Create or update your Trust/ Will. (you knew this would be number one my list!) Nobody likes to think about his or her own death. But you can't ignore reality. Look at the earthquake in Haiti, Hurricane Katrina, 9/11 or the unfortunate, 150,000+ victims killed by the Tsunami that spread across Asia and Africa. Tomorrow isn't promised. You all know this is my favorite and I can assist you with this one! Your plan should be reviewed at least every 3 years, unless of course there has been some type life change, marriage, divorce, birth death. Either way I can assist here. 2. Eliminate credit card debt. Tired of being in debt and living paycheck to paycheck? Then it's time to knock out those credit card bills once and for all. There are all sorts of assistances out there to help you. Go on line and they will find you, or get on a budget! 3. Improve your credit rating. Having poor credit will hurt you in many ways. You'll pay more for loans, credit, and insurance. Plus, bad credit could prevent you from renting an apartment, buying a house, getting a loan or getting a job in this economy. If you go online you can get free copies of your credit report. 4. Get proper insurance. Get life insurance and have adequate coverage for your valuables and property – home, car, etc. – too. If something goes wrong, you and your family will be so glad you did. We all need this and it can also assist with your savings as well. 5. Prepare your taxes early. Get any tax form you need from the IRS and file your taxes ASAP. Or see your CPA and you'll avoid the procrastination and stress, as well as the hassles and long lines, at the Post Office on April 15th. Don’t forget, early filers also get faster refunds. 6. Slowly set aside 3 months' savings. If an emergency happens – from a job loss to a car breakdown – your savings cushion will protect you from resorting to credit cards. There are all sorts of ways to save money, but you might have to stop drinking your favorite coffee drink and make it yourself! 7. Make a financial plan. Start writing out your financial goals and what it will take to achieve them. Work with an advisor or do it yourself. 8. Fund a retirement plan. If you have a 401(k) or 403(b) plan at work, start contributing, or increase your contribution. 9. Ask for a raise. (Be careful here) List the ways you've contributed to your company's prosperity or your department's well being, and approach your boss for a raise. The Wall Street Journal's Careers section has tips for getting a pay hike at www.wsj.com. If you work for yourself, give yourself a raise by raising your prices or offering higher-end products and services. I cannot add much on this one, but the Wall Street Journal’s article is helpful 10. Improve your financial record-keeping. Get your paperwork in order, and keep good records all year round. This will save money in the long run and reduce your aggravation come tax time. For help, try the free online budgeting and record-keeping or make an appointment with me to get your Financial Freedom Notebook. Here's wishing you a happy and financially prosperous New Year!