As we approach the end of the year December can be one of the busiest times of the year. There is decorating for the holidays, shopping for the kids, traveling to see the relatives and enjoying the festivities, this month can fly by like no other. Be sure to take a few minutes to make sure your financial house is in order before you wrap up the year. Here are a few tip I recently received from my lender.

Review your Benefits.  If your company has "open enrollment" for benefits make sure you review all of the options available.  Many of our situations or benefits may have changed over the year, and it may make more sense for you to switch coverage from one spouse's plan to the other's.  Make sure that you take full advantage of pre-tax spending accounts, such as the ability to pay daycare and medical in pre-tax dollars! Pre-tax spending accounts are use-it or lose-it plans and many companies end their benefit plan year on December 31. Be sure to check with your plan provider.

Asset Allocation.  Analize your 401k statement, SEP-IRA's and other portfolio's to determine how your funds have performed during the year.

Automate your New Years Resolution.  Putting into place a program to assist you in paying your bills and paying down your debt will really save you time and energy throughout the year.

Ask Santa for a Budgeting Program.  Quickbook, Quicken ande Money all provide great budget progmams.

Analyze your Debt.  Know what rates you are paying on all your outstanding debts.

Give.  December is great time for giving to charities, for both tax reasons as well as holiday spirit. Giving always makes you feel better!

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