As the number of women entering the work force escalates, divorce rates climb, baby boomers look toward retirement, and mortality rates continue to favor women, increasing amounts of wealth will be placed in the hands of women. In fact, an estimated 80 to 90 percent of American women will need to take charge of their finances at some point in their adult lives. Whether you remain single, marry, divorce, or become widowed, understanding your finances will allow you to feel more in control of your life - now and in the uncertain future.

The worksheets in this planning guide detail the record keeping and financial management skills that women need to get the most from their hard-earned dollars. Use the worksheets to evaluate your financial strengths and determine which areas you need to learn more about and improve. By using this planning guide, you will learn how to:

• evaluate your financial I.Q.

• determine your financial strengths and weaknesses.

• think about steps to take to become financially secure and independent.

• determine your net worth.

Planning for future financial independence means having control over your finances now. By gaining such control, you have already gained this independence.

Download and complete the What Is My Financial I.Q.? worksheet to evaluate your financial strengths.