The days of obsessively checking your tech stocks have likely given way to the somewhat more pressing need of getting through the day with the baby. Until you are able to emerge from the fog, make sure you're taking care of these bare-minimum money-saving strategies and getting any outside help you need.
IF YOU DO NOTHING ELSE...
Use Savings Accounts
Instead of keeping the bulk of your money in a zero-interest checking account, put it in a savings account that's accessible online. The money will be earning interest while you decide if and when you want to invest it somewhere—and since you can make an online transfer to checking via computer anytime you like, you won't have to worry about tying up the cash.
Pay Bills Online (and on Time)
When you're busy, services that remember bills for you (thereby protecting you against late fees) are a godsend. Go online to arrange automatic bill payments. And if you employ a nanny, check out Paycycle.org, which calculates employees' hourly rates for you, reminds you to pay them, and can even set up direct deposit.
Hide Funds from Yourself
Before your salary ends up in your checking account, have a percentage deposited directly into either an investment or a savings account (5 percent is a good start). The "hiding" will help ensure that you don't spend everything you earn. Lastly, if you have a 401(k) through work, make sure you're investing as high a percentage of your salary in it as you can afford (up to the legal cap of $15,500).
CAN'T DO IT ALONE? CALL...
A Stockbroker
If you're uncomfortable doing (and understanding) your own research on the stock market, consider hiring a broker, who can educate and advise you on your investments. Ask that friend with the brand-new pool whom she trusts (as long as you trust her).
An Accountant
A professional can be helpful if you've recently been audited; you run your own company; your children have their own assets; or you've recently gone through a job change, marriage, divorce, or move. Ask coworkers for referrals; their CPAs should be familiar with your type of business expenses.
A Credit Counselor
If collection agencies are hassling you, it's probably time for outside help. To find a reputable counselor, ask friends for referrals. The Federal Trade Commission says organizations that offer face-to-face meetings are often more trustworthy than those that work only online or by phone.
