Step 1

Successful money management is a process. Take the first step.

Step 2

This quick quiz will help you find your starting point.

Step 3

Clearing out the clutter will make organizing your records a whole lot easier.

Step 4

Set yourself up for success; start by appointing a CFO.

Step 5

Knowing where you are today can help you determine the best path toward helping you meet your financial priorities.

Step 6

Good credit is valuable. If your credit reports contain an error, taking the time to have it corrected can really pay off.

Step 7

As you start on the path of sound money management, determine how much money you have to work with.

Step 8

Determining your net worth sounds harder than it really is. Having your credit reports and financial statements in-hand makes the job easy.

Step 9

It's time to ask yourself if your debt is too much debt.

Step 10

Identifying needs and wants can keep you focused on what matters most.

Step 11

Don't just set goals, set SMART goals.

Step 12

Now it is time to develop those priorities into specific goals.

Step 13

Paying off debt is a short-term financial goal most consumers share.

Step 14

Emergency savings can make the difference between a financial setback and a financial disaster.

Step 15

Saving for retirement is a nonnegotiable financial goal.

Step 16

Make a commitment to stay on track.

Step 17

Now that you know what you are working for, it is time to get to work!

Step 18

Find out where the money is going.

Step 19

Identify your fixed expenses.

Step 20

Periodic expenses come due whether you're ready or not.

Step 21

Create your spending plan.

Step 22

Small changes can add up to big savings.

Step 23

Saving money on groceries is one of the fastest and easiest ways to improve to your bottom line.

Step 24

Spread the wealth by sharing one of your money saving tips.

Step 25

Know where you want to be? This is how you will get there.

Step 26

Give yourself some peace of mind by making sure your family is on firm financial footing.

Step 27

Commit to making informed borrowing decisions.

Step 28

Remember that you don't have to go it alone; assemble a financial team to help.

Step 29

To stay motivated, acknowledge the benefits you will experience as a result of your efforts.

Step 30

You are ready and able to move forward. Are you willing?

Step 2

Assess your financial situation

Start your journey with a self assessment designed to motivate you. Completing this simple quiz can help you assess your current financial situation.

Take The Next Step

Print this form

As a rule, do you?

			Always, Sometimes or Never
1.	Pay the rent/mortgage payment and utility bills on time?
2.	Save at least 10% of your net income?
3.	Keep three months net income in reserve for emergencies?
4.	Plan ahead for large expenses?
5.	Set and keep financial goals?
6.	Follow a budget?
7.	Comparison shop?
8.	Regularly review your credit report?
9.	Examine your checking account statements often?
10.	Continue your financial education?

Scoring:

Add your points using the column provided. Never = 0 points, Sometimes = 1 point, Always = 2 points.

0-10 Points: Indicates a need to take control of your finances; following the 30 step plan will go a long way to achieving this.

11-15 Points: Reflects a good effort to manage your money effectively. The 30 step plan can help determine changes that can be made to improve your financial well-being.

16-20 Points: Demonstrates ability to manage your finances successfully. The 30 step plan can help you continue to make money management a priority.