Start your year-end saving and tax planning now

The next three months can make 2006 your most successful yet, if you manage your money right.

In the next 89 days, you'll deal with holiday bills, year-end tax planning, paycheck positioning for 2007 and more. Here's how to make the most of it.

-- Start your holiday shopping now, before you succumb to post-Thanksgiving frenzy.

Write a gift list, and be on the lookout for gifts that fit. Create a holiday budget and stick to it. If you see a good deal on generic gifts, like candles or candy dishes, pick up a few so you'll have them on hand for occasions when you need to come up with a small gift in a hurry.