If you are hoping to start out the new year on a good foot financially, a solid first step is making a financial plan. While you may ... to your inbox. Sign up To do this, you will want to check ...

Step 1: Determine Your Financial Goals The first step in creating a five-year financial plan is determining your financial goals. This is a good time to think about what you want to achieve in the ...

Lisa Smith is a writer with a passion for financial journalism, contributing to popular media outlets like Investopedia and Bloomberg BNA. Vikki Velasquez is a researcher and writer who has ...

This is where you’ll need to outline your financial outlook, including how much you expect to spend and make in your first year ... 5. Allow time for writing: while it’s exciting to think about ...

Financial planning involves looking at your current financial situation with or without the help of a professional — and finding strategies to reach long- and short-term goals. Many, or all, of ...

Examine your income To start a budgeting plan ... could free up more cash for paying down debts, achieving your financial goals, or just reducing overall financial stress. 5.