1. Put accounts and important documents in your name: Open a bank account and get a credit card in your name. This helps to establish your own credit history. Be listed on the deed to your home as joint owner.

2. Talk about money: Women who’ve made their own wealth like to talk about money. If your goal is to be one of them, ask them how they started acquiring their riches.

3. Get connected: Self-made women have established social networks. They join organizations and seek out people who can help them advance financially or in their careers.

4. Read everything in detail: Look over tax returns, investment agreements, real estate contracts and legal documents carefully.
   Get a credit report annually to keep track of surprises or clear up issues.

9. Get to know your financial advisers: At the heart of any wealth creation strategy should be a clear commitment to long-term investment. Attend all meetings with your investment planner, lawyer or accountant. Should there ever be a problem, you'll have the network you need to make important decisions.

10. After you know your financial advisor, invest: Wealthy women take risks in the market—in good times and in bad—in order to make their money work as hard as they do.

6. Create & then follow a budget: A common misconception about budgeting is that it is full of restrictions. In truth, it makes you aware of how you spend your money and becomes a tool to build wealth.

Some basic principles of budgeting for wealth creation include paying yourself first. Dedicate an amount each month to save or invest without exception.

Small steps add up quickly: brew your own coffee, make your own lunch, drink tap water, rent a DVDs, cook dinner, etc. Success at small steps helps to see bigger steps: eliminate a car if possible, stop smoking, exercise outdoors, etc.

Mortgage payments are likely your biggest expenditure, refinancing may save you thousands.

Resolve to save any extra cash like an inheritance. Self-made women have the funds to be crazy spenders, but most are not.

Track monthly bills in detail for 6-months – you may be shocked at how you’re spending your money, and the exercise will help you redefine your goals.

7. Pay bills: Women who aren't working feel uncomfortable participating in financial decisions. Being aware of how the money comes in and where it goes out arms you with essential information and practice for when the day comes you’ll need to do this on your own.

8. Set financial goals: Make sure you and your spouse each have adequate life insurance, health and disability insurance, powers of attorney, a will and perhaps, a living trust. Consider putting aside money for long-term care. Be sure to invest regularly in your own accounts.