Some tasks you definitely shouldn't tackle yourself. Laser eye surgery is out of the question, and so is pulling your own wisdom tooth. Even around the house, you're wise to hire a pro for jobs requiring highly technical expertise, such as adding skylights or boosting electrical service.

If you're stuck with an expensive annuity that's costing you too much, here are the least expensive ways to get out.

If you're looking for the biggest impact on your bottom line, nothing beats taking care of your number one asset - yourself.

The last time Wayne Lipovitch tried to get his family's finances on track, he flipped open the phone book and randomly picked out an adviser near his Phoenix home. That planner guided the Lipovitches' modest investments for a couple of years, and she became a family friend.

Even in this century's darkest days of recession and war, U.S. households kept on spending. But one of the smartest investors on the planet says the American consumer is finally out of steam.

When Chicago consulting firm the Spectrem Group recently asked more than 400 people how they make their 401(k) investing decisions, 21% - and fully 44% of those under 35 - said they turn to friends and relatives for advice. Hey, I've heard of a friends-and-family cell-phone plan. But do you really want your retirement prospects riding on odd Uncle Otto's mutual fund picks?

Swiping your credit card at the register may save you time, but it certainly won't save you money. Thanks to hidden fees, credit card purchases are costing you more than you may know.

There was something odd about the commercial, but it took me a little while to put my finger on it. This not-too-young, not-too-old, not-too-hip hipster with sideburns is talking about his credit-card company. Seems it has a new Web site that helps him plan how he'll pay off his balance - someday.

A pension and social security might seem like enough to carry you through your retirement, but you never know what changes life may bring. Better to be safe than sorry.

Finances can be a touchy subject among family members. If you try to offer help, proceed with caution, says Money Magazine's Walter Updegrave.

Bonds will occasionally outperform the stock market in the short run, but over the long haul, stocks still tend to come out on top.

With the 'R' word looming, a lot of investors are ready to jump ship to shield their retirement. Look before you leap, says Money Magazine's Walter Updegrave.

Don' be misled by advertisements promising a high cash value for a small premium. There are better steps you can take to secure your child's future says Money Magazine's Walter Updegrave.

Question: Each year my wife and I contribute the maximum to our retirement accounts. My question concerns the timing of our investments. Are we better off spreading out the money we invest over the entire year - or should we invest the money as soon as we can? - Eric, Seattle, Washington

If your bank contacts you about a bond-like investment you made some time ago, don't ignore it. You could benefit from an unusual settlement that will allow you to get back 100% of your investment's value.