The beginning of a New Year is a great time to FINALLY get your financial stuff organized! Think if this as a gift to your family in a worst case scenario. Create a Financial Information Binder.

To compile a financial information binder, you will need a three-ring binder, at least 16 index dividers and clear page protectors.

Label the dividers with titles that are important to your family or business finances. The following can be included: Financial goals list, personal directory, professional directory, personal property inventory, financial statements, cash-flow statement, spending plan, bank and brokerage accounts, list of credit cards including toll-free phone numbers, social security benefits statements, location of documents, acquisition and sale of assets, income tax information, paycheck stubs and credit reports. Each one of these categories will list names, account numbers, phone numbers, etc. for easy reference.

Be sure to store each document in a page protector under the correct category. The binder will be used often, so it is important to use page protectors to keep the documents clean and in good shape.

In the personal directory section, list each family member and friend who should be notified in the event of a death in your family. Include the executor of your will and the location of your burial plot. Also include the Social Security and military discharge numbers of your immediate family members. These numbers will provide quick reference information if you or your representative need to apply for benefits.

In your professional directory, include your employer and spouse's employer and every professional involved in your affairs, including your physician, dentist, clergy, lawyer, accountant, insurance agent, banker, financial agent, real estate agent, etc. This list, along with your personal directory, will be helpful to your representative in the event of accident or death

Store a copy of your financial notebook in a fireproof box, with a friend or in a safe deposit box and keep the original on hand for the ongoing management of your financial affairs.

No one likes to think of the inevitable, but by having this information on hand, you are giving your loved ones a gift beyond measure in a time when they will need you the most. God bless.