You've booked your airfare and vacation rental and taken all of the other necessary steps to prepare for your much-awaited vacation. Still, you might not be completely ready for your vacation. There are a number of steps you can take to make your trip worry-free and ensure that your finances continue to hum along in your absence.

Employing a financial planner is not an inexpensive proposition, so the obvious question is, “Are they worth it?” Morningstar and Vanguard have each undertaken studies to quantify the impact good of a good advisor from an investment standpoint, but true fee-only financial planners can add significant value above and beyond the investments. Many folks want a trusted, objective advisor to help them achieve their goals.

Knowing where to begin with improving your financial situation and getting on track is the first step toward making your improved financial situation a reality. A good place to start is to see how your financial life aligns with the Five Fundamentals of Fiscal Fitness.

As a result of the Bi-Partisan Budget Act of 2015, two Social Security spousal claiming strategies, "file and suspend" and "restricted application”, are being eliminated. Regardless of your situation, these changes point to the importance of saving and planning ahead to ensure you'll have enough retirement income to meet your needs…