So is now a good time to start financial planning? As the saying goes, "The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second-best time is now." You can't make up for the past, but you can get started. Most people may think of financial planning and only think of investments and retirement planning, but the financial plan is so much more. No matter where you are in life, preparation is essential. Don't think just in terms of retirement, but consider all of the transitions in life, both for you and for your family..
Birth
Preschool
Elementary school
Middle School
High School
College or leaving home for the first time
First job
Marriage
First home
Kids
Going back to school
Job change
Second home
Career change
Starting a business
Moving to another state
Kids college
Kids marriage
Empty nest
Disability
Retirement
Un-retire
Late career change
Downsizing
Senior Living Center
Long Term Care
Spouse death
Death
Each of these transitions will affect your finances. You need a financial plan that includes all of these. Life is uncertain, and a plan can address those uncertainties. So no matter where you are in life, today is the day to get started. Also, go ahead and plant a tree.