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life's unexpected events, whether an accident, illness, unemployment or death. Get adequate coverage for:
• • Health insurance. Everyone needs medical insurance, no matter how young or healthy.
• • Homeowner/renter's insurance. Don't let theft, fire or another catastrophe leave your family without a home or possessions. To reduce premiums, consider choosing a higher deductible.
• • Life insurance. You'll probably want coverage worth at least five to 10 times your annual pay - more, if you want to cover college costs. And don't forget to in

sure your spouse's life so you'll be protected as well.
• • Disability insurance. Millions of Americans suffer disabilities serious enough to miss work for months or years, yet many forego disability insurance, potentially leaving them without an income after a serious accident or illness. Ask about your employer's sick leave and short-term disability benefits and if long-term disability is offered, consider buying it.
• • Car insurance. Almost every state requires insurance if you own or drive a car, and for good reason: It protects you financially should you cause an accident or be hit by an uninsured driver. Make sure you have sufficient liability coverage to protect your net worth and income - it only takes one serious accident to wipe out your savings.
• And finally, spend responsibly. If you buy things you don't really need or can't afford, you'll just end up having to work longer hours to pay for them - time you could have spent watching your kids growing up.
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