Top 10 tools for savvy money management

Wouldn't you love to be a savvy money manager? The type of person who knows the best CD rates, has the best savings account and knows their checking account balance off the top of their head?

It really isn't that hard if you have the right resources. From low-tech to high-tech, here are 10 tools to turn you into a financial wizard.

1. Online banking and bill pay: It's hard to stay on top of your finances if you only see your balances and transactions once a month on a paper statement. This is the 21^st Century, and if you aren't already signed up for online or mobile banking, it is time to get moving. Not only does online banking let you see your account status in real time, some banks will alert you when your balance is low or you have fees charged to your account. Use your bank's bill pay service to schedule payments in advance and never miss a due date again.
2. Manilla.com: Still in a beta version, Manilla has created a lot of buzz. The site allows you to link up your existing credit card, utility, and banking accounts in one place. You can store documents and tracks bills here, and the site even lets you manage your Groupon and Living Social accounts.
3. Mint.com: Similar to Manilla, Mint was one of the first to offer the ability to manage multiple accounts in one location. However, Mint has more limited capabilities. You can check saving and checking account balances and transactions, but you can't receive and store statements. What Mint does have is nifty budget tools that analyze your current spending and help you create and realize financial goals.
4. Rate comparison websites: You can't maximize your money if you are paying too much for insurance or receiving too little interest on your investments. Rate comparison websites are the Internet's gift to busy consumers. Just a few clicks and you can quickly see if you are getting the best deal possible. SavingsAccounts.com, of course, offers you information on the best CD rates and money market accounts. You can also head to Insure.com to check out insurance quotes and BillShrink.com for advice on lowering utility bills.
5. Fireproof filing cabinet: Yes, this tool isn't nearly as much fun as a cool new phone app, but it is essential. You need someplace safe to store the seven years worth of tax returns the IRS might want to see if you are ever audited. In addition, keep irreplaceable documents such as birth certificates, wills and life insurance policies safely tucked inside. As an alternative, store these in a safe-deposit box at your bank.
6. Tax software: No one wants to mess with the IRS so we don't blame you if you prefer to pay the pros to do your taxes each year. That said, today's tax software is practically dummy-proof. If you have a relatively simple return--or even if you have a slightly more complex return--programs such as TurboTax and TaxAct are an affordable way to pay the taxman. Even better, the online versions of these programs are often free for many taxpayers.
7. Financial software: While you are checking out tax software, look into some financial software as well. Quicken and Money are two of the more popular programs for individuals. Import data from your online banking site and instantly have your financial information at your fingertips. Then budget, analyze and forecast to your heart's content.
8. Annual credit report: Don't be fooled by sites that want you to sign up for credit protection or some other service in order to get your credit report. The government requires each credit bureau provide a free credit report to consumers each year, no strings attached. The official site to request your report is AnnualCreditReport.com. Any place else is a commercial site after your money. Get your credit report annually, review it with a fine tool comb and dispute any errors you might find.
9. ATM finder app: Why pay extra to use an ATM when a free one might be right around the corner? Savvy money managers know better than to let themselves be nickel and dimed by ATM fees. Use a mobile app, such as the appropriately name ATM & Bank Finder, to help you locate a branch or ATM where you can withdraw your money for free.
10. A financial guru: Good money management is a marathon, not a sprint. You need to be in it for the long haul, and that means you might need someone yelling at you from the sidelines. The web is full of financial gurus who can keep you motivated to stay on track. Whether it is Dave Ramsey, Mary Hunt, Clark Howard or J.D. Roth from GetRichSlowly.org, find someone whose personality you like and let them cheer you on to the finish line.

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