Last quarter, I posted the financial task list for January, February and March, taken from the Financial Planning Association (FPA) website. This second post is for tasks that need to be completed for April, May and June, which are quickly approaching.

As both my parents and in-laws are well into their 80's, I so appreciate and value the importance of the task for the month of May; talking to your parents about estate, health and long-term care planning. Please don't put this one off - you will save yourself and your loved ones a huge amount of work and heartache if you address these important and inevitable end of life issues sooner rather than later.  

If you missed the previous list, don't worry - it's never too late to catch up - especially when it comes to preparing for your stress free financial future.

APRIL:

• Tax deadline: April 18 is the deadline for postmarking federal and state taxes.

• Education account contribution deadline: Don’t forget that contributions to Coverdell accounts for the previous year are also due on tax day.

• Check your insurance coverage: If you have sufficient emergency funds, check to see if a higher deductible on home, auto or health insurance makes sense in terms of premiums savings and fewer potential claims.   

MAY:

• Talk to your parents: If you’ve never discussed estate, health and long-term care planning with your parents, do it now. 

• Do a summer energy checkup: Have your air conditioner checked to make sure it’s working properly during the cooling season. 

JUNE:

• Do a mid-year financial checkup: Take the time to do a review of your tax planning, retirement savings, home, health and life insurance needs and do a mid-year check of your spending and emergency fund levels.