The Womens Conference

JANUARY

 Increase savings.

• Match your 401k contribution to your annual raise.
• Add an auto investing program with monthly withdrawals from checking or savings.

FEBRUARY

 Fund your last year's IRA.

• April 15^th is the deadline for last year's contribution.
• For 2009, the deductible limit is $5,000.
• Over 50? Add $1,000 extra to catch-up.

MARCH

 Organize your tax prep.

• Watch for W-2s and 1099s by the end of the month.
• Call each employer and investment firm if you miss their form.
• Expect a two-week turnaround for these requests.

APRIL

 File your tax return or six
 month extension
 electronically.

• Get quicker refunds and fewer mistakes.
• Use direct deposit for even faster receipt.

MAY

 Pay down debt with tax
 refund.

• Average individual refund in '08 was approx. $2.3k; pay down debt.
• Add to savings.
• Add to 401K.

JUNE

 Service your car.

• Save on gas when prices are higher in the summer.
• A clean air filter can boost fuel economy by 10%.

JULY

 Do a credit check; improve
 your score.

• Free from Equifax, Experian and TransUnion.
• Via web, mail or phone.
• Use debit v credit.

AUGUST

 Prepare/review your will/
 estate plan.

• Do it yourself with WillMaker.
• Consult an estate attorney for advice.
• Review annually as your life changes.

SEPTEMBER

 Plan for your kid's education.

• Invest in a Coverdell
• Invest in a 529.
• Non-deductible payments grow tax free.
• Withdrawals are tax free for qual costs.

OCTOBER

 Prepare your home for winter
 with an energy audit.

• Find out what your costs should be.
• Can you adjust and save both energy and cost?
• Some audits are free.

NOVEMBER

  Watch for holiday sales.

• Avoid the rush.
• Buy great gifts/great prices.
• Budget with more pay periods.

DECEMBER

 Make smart tax payments by
 12.31.

• Need deductions?
• Donate to charity.
• Make early property tax payments.
• Make early mortgage payments.