6 Tips to Get Your 2017 Financial House in Order

Now that we are in the final month of 2016 it’s easy to get off track from our goals.  Follow these 6 tips and with a little time and effort your 2017 finances will be more organized and less stressful.

1. Organize your paperwork: It’s hard to feel in control when you can’t find anything. Gather all papers, shred duplicates/old statements and put them all in a box or accordion file.
2. Go Paperless: I know habits are hard to break.  Wherever possible create electronic files.  See if you can receive e-bills instead of paper.  Use a flash or thumb drive as a back-up and keep it off-premises.
3. Protect against identity theft: You can request a free copy of your credit report once per year from all 3 credit bureaus. Go to AnnualCreditReport.com. Another great tool is Credit Karma which allows you to track your credit scores throughout the year.
4. Put your finances on autopilot: Use EFT direct deposit for all checks, pension and social security received. Set up automatic payments for recurring bills.  It’s easy and will save time going forward.
5. Create your 2016 tax file: Most people have to scramble to pull together all tax forms etc. Start now by setting up a 2016 file and stashing forms/receipts etc as needed.
6. Review your insurance coverage: Protect your nest egg and your family by regularly reviewing your life, health disability and long term care insurance.  If this is confusing to you contact us for a 2^nd

Your financial house needs regular upkeep.  Putting in a little time and organization will decrease clutter and help you focus on your goals and objectives.
Contact Robert here for more ideas to get your financial house in order.