Thought about new year's resolutions yet?  Here are seven aimed at getting, and keeping, your financial affairs in order.

1. Check your estate plan.  You need a will, power of attorney, and living will, as discussed in "An effective estate plan starts with these 4 key steps".  Many people know that, but tend to procrastinate.

2. Make sure you're financially protected from injury and illness.  Disability insurance is vital, but people often overlook it.  Also look into critical illness and/or long-term care insurance.

3. Review your home and automobile insurance - especially if it has been on auto-pilot.  Are you sufficiently covered?  Can you boost deductibles to save money?

4. Revisit your investment plan.  Is your investment planning relevant and rational after two years of tough stock markets?  Has the bear market made you more risk-averse?  What level of savings and average annual return do you need to meet yours goals?  Make sure you have a plan you can stick to.

5. Review your pension and insurance benefits at work.  Look for overlaps with personal plans and your spouse's employment benefits.

6. Pay down debts that are not tax deductible.  Make the most of this strategy by investing the interest you save.

7.  Pay yourself first - particularly if you're behind in your Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP)  contributions.  One of the best ways to pay yourself first is to have RRSP deposits automatically deducted from your bank account.  

Professional advice can help you put a plan in place to meet any of these financial goals.