The easiest way to start that process is to get organized. One simple way to do that is to make a list of all the on-line and off-line banks, brokers, financial planners, insurance companies, etc. that you deal with. And make sure to include your IRAs, 401 (k), annuities, and other assets you may have. Then, take a look at whether or not there's a need to make any changes---such as changes in account names or beneficiaries ---on any. If so, note the changes necessary on each and start contacting the appropriate firms. This is also a great time to make sure you've created files for all of your investment accounts. And, for those with files already created, to do some year-end discarding of data in each that's no longer necessary to keep.

You can follow the same get-organized suggestions for any changes in your professional life. For instance, losing a job, changing jobs, starting a new business, selling or closing an existing one often means a change in your investment accounts, too.