Personal Finance Workbook For Dummies (2^nd Ed.)

From analyzing assets to planning for retirement, this new edition of Personal Finance Workbook For Dummies gives you the information and resources you need to get your finances under control.

Personal Finance Workbook For Dummies walks you through a private financial counseling session, using worksheets, checklists, and formulas for assessing financial health, providing for day-to-day financial management, making wise financial decisions, and investing for financial growth.

• Addresses the latest changes in tax and credit laws and regulations
• Strong focus on behavioral finance and how these issues impact decision-making with regard to personal money management
• Tips to plan for big-ticket purchases
• Expanded coverage on building and managing wealth
• Information on how effective asset allocation can help reduce volatility and/or increase opportunity
• Websites and ideas on how to get the most bang for your buck in everyday household expenditures

From budgeting and cutting expenses to getting out of debt and planning for retirement, Personal Finance Workbook For Dummies is a solution for those looking to avoid bankruptcy as well as those looking for something to help them plan for a successful financial future.

Introduction 1

Part I: Getting on the Road to Financial Fitness 5

Chapter 1: Exploring Money in Your Life 7

Chapter 2: Getting Your Financial House in Order 21

Chapter 3: Analyzing Your Cash Flow 35

Chapter 4: Turning Your Dreams into Realities 51

Part II: Getting the Most Out of Your Money 69

Chapter 5: Using Credit Wisely 71

Chapter 6: Spending Thoughtfully 83

Chapter 7: Involving Your Family in Personal Finance 97

Chapter 8: Minimizing Taxes 107

Part III: Thinking about the Future 115

Chapter 9: Planning for Big-Ticket Purchases 117

Chapter 10: Saving for Retirement 137

Chapter 11: Funding Your Kids’ College Education 151

Chapter 12: Thinking about When You’re Gone: Estate Planning 165

Part IV: Building and Managing Wealth 175

Chapter 13: Evaluating Your Current Portfolio 177

Chapter 14: Maximizing Investment Strategies 187

Chapter 15: Finding and Hiring the Right Advisor (If You Need One) 199

Part V: Protecting Your Assets 209

Chapter 16: Managing Risk with Insurance 211

Chapter 17: Exploring Your Health Insurance Options 219

Chapter 18: Figuring Out What Life Insurance You Need 233

Chapter 19: Insuring Your Property 241

Chapter 20: Protecting Your Privacy 253

Part VI: The Part of Tens 261

Chapter 21: Ten Easy Ways to Boost Your Savings 263

Chapter 22: Ten Tips on Getting Organized 267

Chapter 23: Ten Scams to Avoid 271

Chapter 24: Ten or So Types of Insurance You Don’t Need to Buy 277

Index 281