Book excerpt: If you want to take control of your financial future and unlock thedoors to financial success, you must have a plan that will allowyou to find good investments, reduce taxes, beat inflation, andproperly manage money. Whether you're new to financial planning or a seasoned veteran,this updated edition of Ernst & Young's Personal FinancialPlanning Guide provides valuable information and techniques you canuse to create and implement a consistent personalized financialplan. It also takes into consideration the new tax rules thataffect home ownership, saving for college, estate planning, andmany other aspects of your financial life. Filled with in-depth insight and financial planning advice, thisunique guide can help you: * Set goals * Build wealth * Manage your finances * Protect your assets * Plan your estate and investments It will also show you how to maintain a financial plan inconjunction with life events such as: * Getting married * Raising a family * Starting your own business * Aging parents * Planning for retirement Financial planning is a never-ending process, and with Ernst &Young's Personal Financial Planning Guide, you'll learn how totailor a plan to help you improve all aspects of your financiallife.