The first step in making a personal financial plan is to set goals. Some goals will be short-term, perhaps achievable within a year, while long-term goals may involve paying for a child's education, starting a small business after retiring from the police department, or buying a vacation cottage. While setting goals is relatively easy, the hard part is saving a portion of income every month. The first item in the household budget should be savings, while the second item should be an emergency fund. Insurance is a critical part of the financial plan, and consideration should also be given to various money investment possibilities (certificates of deposit, the stock market, and mutual funds). In addition, planning for retirement income and having a will are important. Guidelines for choosing a financial planner are offered that focus on credentials, professional standing, and cost.