How to Die Rich

Presumably, dying rich also means you were able to live rich, which is
the main point of having wealth. In order to get to the finish line with
a hefty net worth, apply sound money management basics throughout
your life: Work hard, don't buy stuff you don't need, save money, and
invest wisely. The first step? Come up with a solid plan--in writing.

Instructions

1. Write down your financial goals. Think about your "sky's the limit" dreams in all areas of your life and start devising out a plan to get there. See 16 Set Goals.

2. Become an inveterate saver (see 228 Design a Savings Plan). Sock away at least half of every pay raise and other windfalls like bonuses or tax returns. Make systematic investing your longterm goal once you've put away a six-month emergency fund.

3. Put your money to work. Even if you think you don't have much to invest with, open an account with a mutual fund company that includes no-load funds and low expense ratios. With a diverse portfolio, you can reasonably expect to earn 8 to 10 percent annually on your investments over the long haul.

4. Know the difference between wants and needs, and make conscious spending decisions: Would you rather have the latest cool gizmo or put your money someplace where it can do something for you? Spend significantly less than you bring home and save the rest. See 15 Live With Less.

5. Be aware of what you're charging on your credit cards. If you're carrying a balance every month, read step 3 again. Think of how much further the money you pay in interest charges could go if it was going directly into an interest-bearing account or an IRA. See 227 Get Out of Debt and 241 Plan for Retirement.

6. Start your own business. The majority of millionaires make their fortunes the hard way, not by inheriting it. Self-employment entails significant risk as well as rewards. Work hours and company policies are yours to decide; revenue is yours to control. Risk-takers and innovators stand to gain the rewards of running a successful business.

7. Hire a pro. A good financial planner can help you balance your portfolio with smart investments. Don't abdicate responsibility for your money, but do create a solid working relationship with your planner. If you can't afford to have one manage your money, many financial planners will review your portfolio and make recommendations for a onetime fee.

8. Concentrate on spiritual wealth instead of financial gain. If the point of being rich is so that you can be happy, why not just skip ahead to 501 Be Happy?

Tips & Warnings

• Set aside some money for a good biographer.

• See 244 Make a Will, 247 Plan Your Estate and 239 Track Your Investments.

• Americans tend to save less and carry more household debt than people in many other industrialized nations.

• Count on yourself, not on Social Security. When it comes to future Social Security payments, many economists have this to say to a young person entering the workforce: "Ha ha ha!" As the population ages, too many old people will be receiving payments while too few young workers will be paying taxes to support the system. See 241 Plan for Retirement.