inancial success and stability is all about credit and keeping control of your finances. Plan for tomorrow, but don't forget about today. Take these steps to get on the road to success.

• Track your spending.
• Create a budget and stick to it.
• Pay yourself first.
• Always set aside money for savings.
• Set up an emergency fund.
• Use payroll savings if offered by your employer.
• Educate yourself about personal finance.

• Make all payments on time.
• Limit the number of credit cards you use.
• Keep charges to a minimum.
• Cut your debt.
• Communicate with your creditors.
• Review your credit report annually.
• Seek financial counseling while problems are still small.

• Consult a professional financial adviser.
• Estimate your pension or retirement fund.
• Know your Social Security benefits.
• Contribute to an employer 401(k) plan and/or an individual retirement account.
• Make carefully considered investments in stocks, bonds and/or mutual funds.

• Organize all your financial records.
• Check your insurance coverage.
• Consider purchasing disability insurance.
• Prepare or update your will.
• Update your beneficiary designations on your will and all insurance policies.