Tip #1:
Take a moment to review your W-4 form

Adjusting the number of allowances you claim on your W-4 form can instantly increase your paycheck and prevent you from giving Uncle Sam an interest-free loan. Every allowance you claim equals about $690 in taxes withheld from your paycheck. If you got a refund check last year (lucky you!), you should raise your allowances by one for every $690 you received.

Of course, if you owed Uncle Sam, divide the amount you owed by $690. Then, lower your allowances by the nearest whole number you come up with. You'll actually get less money in your paycheck if you do this, but you'll save yourself from a nasty surprise come tax time. If you bought a home this year or if you started contributing to a 401(k), you may want to add allowances. Just use the worksheet on the back of your W-4 to recalculate.

Next: Put extra money in your pocket with one phone call.