Do your homework before meeting with your financial professional

Whether you're sitting pretty or living paycheck to paycheck, completing the following financial planning worksheets may help give your investment professional a better understanding of your financial situation:

• Net Worth
  This worksheet will help you figure it out. Just print it out, fill in a total for each category and do some simple math. If your net worth is a negative number, you may want to focus on reducing debt.
• Spending Plan
  Creating a spending plan can be a lot like going on a treasure hunt. Sure, you need your money to do a lot of things each month, but if you dig around, you’re sure to find some extra dimes and dollars.
• Monthly Expense Tracking
  Print this worksheet, hang it on the fridge or fold it into a neat little packet and stick it in your wallet. Fill in the blanks as you pay your bills and jot down miscellaneous expenses. Then tally everything at the end of the month.
• Insurance Inventory
  PINs, account numbers, ID numbers — the list goes on and on. Put information about your insurance policies here and get to it quickly when you need it. Just make sure to keep it in a safe place.
• Account Numbers and Contacts
  PINs, account numbers, ID numbers — the list goes on. This form will help you keep the numbers straight. Just make sure to keep it in a safe place

Keep in mind that these resources are intended for general informational purposes only. This is not investment advice. Please discuss your specific situation with an investment professional.