QUESTION: WHAT WOULD YOU RATHER DO:

HANG AROUND WITH, ERIC COOKSEY?
HANG AROUND WITH BRENDA YEAGER?
TAKE A NAIL GUN TO YOURSELF?

Cut clutter right now, experts say
By Dave Burge / El Paso Times

While you're busy doing your annual spring-cleaning of your house or apartment, it might be a good time to also take a look at your finances, experts say.

Examine your tax situation and do a little tax planning for next year, experts say. Organize your important documents, too.

"There is no better time than right now" to organize your finances, said Mark Steber, vice president of tax resources with Jackson Hewitt Tax Service.

"You just finished with your 2005 return, and you're very familiar with your tax situation," Steber said.

Northeast resident Eric Cooksey, 56, says he reviews his financial picture twice a year.

"It's too easy to fall asleep at the wheel," he said. "It keeps you thinking about it and informed about it. It gives you an opportunity to say, 'I can contribute a little more to that particular investment.' "

El Paso certified public accountant Brenda Yeager recommends that you save a copy of your tax return and any supporting documents for three years.

You might also consider doing a midyear tax assessment, Yeager said. Take your latest pay stub and do a mock return to see if you're headed for a big refund or big tax bill next year, she said.

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