James Cash Penney a.k.a. J.C. Penney said, "Only the disciplined are free."

Successful people know where they spend their money and keep account of
it. They know the value of watching their pennies to create and keep their
millions. You can empower yourself and your business by knowing how
much you have and where you spend it.

1. Track your spending. Record financial transactions no matter how small.
2. Search for and ask for discounts when appropriate. Many types of
   discounts are available. Often all you have to do is ask.
3. Obtain receipts and examine them for accuracy.
4. Write a category on each of your receipts to simplify your bookkeeping
   and track your spending.
5. Establish an accounting system. Develop a simple, systematic approach
   for dealing with financial matters and related paperwork. Pick a day and
   time each week to work on financial matters-from bill paying to studying
   finances.
6. Keep important documents for tax purposes and for future needs.
7. Balance your account(s) to the penny and reconcile them with your bank
   statements.
8. Check all bills, statements, and invoices for accuracy.
9. Know the fees your service providers charge.
10. Make a financial inventory list: banks, insurance, investments, assets
    (include account numbers) and advisor contact information.

Amber Grady specializes in organizing finances, and is the creator of My Money Manager Kit, "A Bookkeeping System That Puts Paper in Its Place" and author of Money Success 127 Ways to Make It Happen for You! tip booklet. Email Amber@AmberGrady.com, Website www.AmberGrady.com

Money Success 127 Ways to Make It Happen for You! tip booklet featured in April 2003 Home Business Magazine.