Eight Steps to Simplify Your Finances Checklist

If time is a precious commodity for you, here are eight ideas to save time and reduce the stress and anxiety of managing your financial affairs.

You may want to print this page (or click here to download the pdf file) to record your information. Keep this browser window open so you can link to the informative articles in the Financial Library.

Date
Item
Actions Needed
Taking Action
Articles From Library

 

__/__

Enroll for direct deposit.
It eliminates trips to the bank and keeps your money working longer.


1.

2.

3.

Enroll for direct deposit of your payroll or government checks. Direct Deposit of Payroll and Government Checks

 

__/__

Sign up for overdraft protection.
By linking your checking account to a line of credit you avoid the cost, hassle and embarrassment of a bounced check.


1.

2.

3.

Enroll for overdraft protection.

 

__/__

Establish an automatic savings plan.
Regular, automatic transfers to a savings account will add up.


1.

2.

3.

Enroll for an automatic savings plan to transfer $____ to your savings account each month and start building your savings cushion. Developing a Financial Cushion

 

__/__

Use electronic bill paying.
Eliminate the dreaded task of writing checks.


1.

2.

3.

Sign up for online banking. Ten Reasons to Consider Online Banking

 

__/__

Consolidate your financial relationships.
Dealing with one institution makes everything easier.


1.

2.

3.

Meet with a personal banker to explore the benefits of consolidating all your financial relationships. Developing a Financial Strategy

 

__/__

Consider personal finance software.
Many programs make handling your finances easier and quicker.


1.

2.

3.

 

__/__

Build a safety cushion.
Be ready for unexpected expenses or use some extra for a special vacation.


1.

2.

3.

Check the rates for savings accounts and CDs. Building a Savings Cushion

 

__/__

Review your investments.
Make sure your asset allocation matches your time horizon and risk tolerance.

1.

2.

3.

Meet with a financial advisors to help you create an asset allocation and investment strategy that is suited for your needs.

Asset Allocation

Investing in Mutual Funds