Each person has to decide at what age they want to start receiving their Social Security based on their individual circumstances. Here is something to consider: Based on my own situation, if I wait until I am 66 years old to draw my full Social Security I will be about 72 years old before I draw as much money as I would have if I had started drawing my partial Social Security at age 62. It's something to think about.

Besides retirement benefits, Social Security also covers disability and death benefits. This is a fairly complicated program but it might not hurt to learn as much as you can by visiting Social Security web site. You can also request a Social Security Statement which includes a record of your earnings history and an estimate of how much you and your employer paid in Social Security taxes Estimates of benefits you (and your family) may be eligible for now and in future.

Social Security was never intended to be your only source of income after you retire. In most cases your monthly check will only be a fraction of what you were earning before retirement. It would be wise to start a savings and investment program as soon as possible to ensure that you have enough money when retirement rolls around. This link may help get you started: http://beginnersinvest.about.com/mbody.htm

#7. Don't keep more that two credit cards.

The biggest reason for this two card rule is that it is easier to keep track of possible errors and current interest rates with no more than two cards. Some credit card companies will increase your interest rate without prior notification. You must look at your statements each month and inquire about any discrepancies.

#8. Always mail your credit cards bills at least seven days prior to due date.

Currently, credit cards companies are allowed to charge a maximum of $29 for late fees if bill is not paid on time. With delays in mail and processing time once bill reaches credit card company offices, you need at least 7 days to be sure it is posted on time.

#9. Always protect your credit card numbers from others.

Be sure that you don't allow unauthorized people to see your credit card numbers. It is very easy to use someone else's credit card, as stores are very lax in their security of handling credit cards, seldom checking to see if signature on back of card matches one on credit card form. Never give your credit card number over phone unless you know who you are talking to.

#10. Don't use credit cards for groceries.

Buying things like groceries with a credit card, unless you pay card off each month, is a no win situation. Buying recurring items like groceries will only tend to increase your credit card debt each month.