One of the best things you can do for your finances is to periodically check your financial health. As the first quarter of 2013 just ended, it’s a good idea to evaluate your finances, and recognise where you are in terms of financial health — and figure out where you want to go from here.
Areas of consideration for a financial checkup
As you prepare for your financial checkup, it’s a good idea to consider the following financial areas, and make adjustments as necessary:
•Net worth: It’s not a bad idea to start with your net worth. Your net worth offers a snapshot of where your finances are right at this moment. As a result, it can make a good starting point. Look at your current net worth, and compare it to your net worth from your last checkup. This can give you a general idea of what direction you are headed financially, and can give you a warning that you might need to make some changes.
•Financial plan: Next, review your financial plan, and your overall financial goals. Are you on track? Is your financial plan still helping you reach your goals? Or have things changed enough that you need to make tweaks to your financial plan? If you have moved off course from your financial plan, now is a good time to get back on track. Recognise what you need to do to bring your spending and saving back in line with your long-term financial goals.
•Insurance coverage: Review your insurance policies. Look at the coverages and the various plans that you have. It’s a good idea to consider what you need to protect your assets. Make sure you have adequate coverage. In some cases, it might make sense to drop some of your coverage, or take steps, like raising the deductible, to lower your premiums.
•Investments: Consider your investment accounts. Does your asset allocation still make sense? Has your allocation drifted away from what you want? Review the fees you are paying as well. If you have investments that are racking up the fees for you, consider switching things up. It might also make sense to consolidate your investment accounts in some cases.
•Spending and saving habits: Don’t forget to consider your spending and saving habits. Have you moved away from your savings goals? What about your spending? Have you stopped following your spending priorities? Re-establish your financial priorities, and make sure your spending is in line with what you prefer.
Now is also a good time to review your tax liability, and look for ways to reduce your taxes before the end of the year. Part of your financial checkup should also include a look at the deductions and credits you might be able to squeeze in before the year ends, whether it’s buying business equipment or donating to charity.
An occasional look at your financial situation is a good idea. You can catch problems — or even just see where you might have become lazy with your finances. A financial checkup can help you identify areas for improvement, and you can make a plan to boost your situation.
