Rework your budget. You may have had a budget that worked well for you and your partner, but that does not necessarily mean the same budget will accommodate your new baby and all that comes with him or her. You will have to rethink your old plan and make adjustments wherever necessary. Get started here.
Get a jump on finding childcare. If you are planning on returning to work or just want some time to yourself, getting an early start on childcare arrangements will well serve you - and your family's bottom line. Learn more now.
Open an account to start saving in your baby's name. Whether it be a basic savings money market account or a CD, if at all possible, devote any extra cash to a savings -- no matter how modest. Your children will thank you for it someday! Get the details.
Open a brokerage account. Investing for your future is always a key part of any sound financial management program, but as a new parent the need may be even greater. Investing wisely is one of the best ways to get your dollars working for you now so that they can provide the financial security you need for your family later. Open an account today.
Start saving for your baby's college education. Looking at a brand new baby hardly inspires thoughts of universities. But despite the endless sea of new demands that now require your attention - and financial resources - there is almost none more important than starting to save for your child's college education. WFN at Siebert can help you start saving today through the CollegeBoundfund, a 529 plan managed by Alliance Capital. 529 College Savings Plans are a powerful way to save for a child’s higher education because the money you invest enjoys tax-free earnings growth. Learn more about how to start saving here. Or, read about financing education here.
Develop an estate plan. If you have not already thought about estate planning, now is the time to start. By clarifying your goals and using basic estate planning techniques you can ensure that your wishes will be carried out and that your family is adequately provided for after you are gone. As a new parent the most important elements to consider are custodians, wills, trusts and other means of gifting assets. Get the basics.
Get insured. Insurance is protection against the unforseen. Now that you have a family of your own, this kind of protection may be more important than ever. As parent of dependent children, it is key for you to reevaluate life, disability and health insurance coverage. For more information, visit our Insurace Center.
Talk to your employer about maternity leave. The sooner this conversation takes place, the better. It will be far easier for you to negotiate a reasonable leave agreement. Read more.
Tackle your taxes. There are several tax implications to becoming a parent that you should be aware of. The two most important involve the issue of filing with dependants and utilizing child tax credits to your advantage. Learn more.