Financial Planning Advice From Around the Web
A look at tips from personal finance bloggers about setting goals and improving your finances.

As the year comes to an end, many of us like to reflect on what we've accomplished and what we would like to achieve during the coming year. This exercise is especially important when it comes to our financial lives. A year-end review can help you determine whether you reached your goals or whether you need to make adjustments to get your finances on track. I've rounded up advice from a few of our favorite personal finance bloggers to help you with this process.
6 Things to Do With Your Money Before 2014 [Credit.com]
"Let’s take a look at a few ways you can maximize your tax savings before the end of the year."

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What’s Holding You Back [Money Crush]
"It’s almost that goal-setting time of year, but before you begin thinking about your New Year’s Resolutions consider this: Have you ever said to yourself, “Oh, I really should do ______” (maybe last year?) but then you don’t follow through?"
How to Balance The Future With the Present [Consumerism Commentary]
"Once you’ve planned for the future, you’re in a better position to be concerned about making the most out of every day, but you can live in the moment without sacrificing your future."
Hidden Emotional Factors That May Be Destroying Your Finances [ReadyForZero]
"If you’ve never thought about how your emotions are dictating your relationship with money, now’s the time to start."
Survey Finds Most Americans are Delusional About Their Money -- Are You? [Money Under 30]
"We give others failing marks for saving and investing, but give ourselves an A or a B! Something doesn’t add up. Are you delusional about your money skills?"
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Award-winning journalist, speaker, family finance expert, and author of Mom and Dad, We Need to Talk.
Cameron Huddleston wrote the daily "Kip Tips" column for Kiplinger.com. She joined Kiplinger in 2001 after graduating from American University with an MA in economic journalism.
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When Should You Hand Over the Keys — to Your Investments?
The secret to retirement planning? "The best time to hand over the keys is before you’ve realized you need to hand over the keys."
By Maurie Backman
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A checklist for high-net-worth individuals looking to maintain and grow their wealth.
A strategic guide to managing, preserving, and expanding your wealth for long-term financial security.
By Dori Zinn
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What Does Medicare Not Cover? Eight Things You Should Know
Healthy Living on a Budget Medicare Part A and Part B leave gaps in your healthcare coverage. But Medicare Advantage has problems, too.
By Donna LeValley
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Five Ways to Save on Vacation Rental Properties
Travel Use these strategies to pay less for an apartment, condo or house when you travel.
By Cameron Huddleston
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How to Avoid Annoying Hotel Fees: Per Person, Parking and More
Travel Here's how to avoid extra charges and make sure you don't get stuck paying for amenities that you don't use.
By Cameron Huddleston
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How to Benefit From Rising Interest Rates
Financial Planning Savers will get the best rates from top-yielding savings and money market deposit accounts at online banks.
By Rivan V. Stinson
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Donor-Advised Funds: The Gift That Keeps on Giving
Financial Planning Expert guidance on how this charitable vehicle can make a difference.
By Emma Patch
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PODCAST: Tax Breaks for College Finance with Kalman Chany
Paying for College Paying for (ever-pricier) college is a challenge that this consultant meets head on with highly specific guidance.
By David Muhlbaum
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Reading, Writing, and Personal Finance
Raising Money-Smart Kids A growing number of high schools are adding personal finance to their curriculum.
By Sandra Block
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Backdoor Roth IRAs: Good for Wealthy Retirees?
Financial Planning A backdoor Roth IRA is a tax loophole that enables wealthier individuals to earn tax-free income. But it's complicated.
By David Rodeck