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#1: Check Your Credit Score

Your credit score is more important than ever.

In the wake of the financial meltdown, credit is much harder to come by, especially if you don’t have a good history. If you are fortunate enough to obtain a credit card or loan, you’ll pay higher interest rates if you have any prior problems.

Bottom line: A good credit score could save you tens of thousands of dollars through the years.

Here’s your first step: Order your free annual credit report to check on your current score and see if there are any problems. It’s easy to do. Just go to www.annualcreditreport.com or call 877-322-8228. (Here’s a tip: To get a credit report every four months, rotate among all three credit agencies, getting one per year from each.)

For more help, let us tell you Everything You Should Know About Your Credit Rating, and be sure to learn our 7 Ways to Boost Your Credit Score.

Next: #2: Check Your Savings