the Road to Retirement - Want to get your finances in shape? Don't know where to start?

A Random Walk Down Wall Street

Top 13 Steps to the Road to Retirement.

1. Figure out how you are spending your money.
2. Start a budget--use my starter budget spreadsheet below.
3. Consolidate and pay off credit cards and debt.
4. Read my recommended must read finance & investing books.
5. Get the best rates on CDs across the country!
6. Max out your 401K savings.
7. Contribute to an IRA each year if your salary allows it.
8. Set your financial goals.
9. Invest in a diversified portfolio (your house is an investment too) based on your financial goals. Don't invest in stocks or mutual funds unless you can devote several hours a week to researching them and keeping on top of them. Invest in Vanguard Index funds if you are a 'newbie.'
10. Review your portfolio every 6 months -- or at least once a year and rebalance.
11. Don't buy a new cars unless you plan to keep it until it quits. Buy two or more years old.
12. Pay off your house ASAP - get a 15 year mortgage and pay it off!
13. Ask for a discount everywhere you go!