To Do List What Should I Do If I'm Starting a Family?				> Back to Article
		Here's a quick list of items you should make sure to address when dealing with your question or concern.

			Start a budget and stick to it. With expenses on the rise, now's the time to put some controls on your finances.
			Build up a cash reserve of three to six months' expenses. You don't want to get caught off guard by an unanticipated layoff or any unexpected costs, like a large car-repair bill.
			Consult with a lawyer to draft or update your will, specifying who will take custody of your child if something were to happen to you.
			Meet with a broker or surf the Internet to research life-insurance policies. Term insurance is the cheapest, but it offers you no value later in life, as do other varieties.
			Research day-care options and examine the true take-home pay of the lower-earning partner's job. And don't forget about flexible-spending plans your employer may offer, which allow you to put aside pretax dollars for child care and certain other expenses.

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