Lisa Cintron

Mega star Nicolas Cage is on the verge of bankruptcy. According to the Associated Press, he owes the IRS $6.3 million in back taxes from 2007. Additionally, he has a lien on his real estate holdings and is being sued by East West Bank for $2 million that he borrowed and hasn't paid back.

During this time of economic downturn and financial struggle, most families are desperately trying to figure out how to make more money or how to keep more of their money.

Financial planning is a process that requires discipline and for many a financial planner offers the advice and guidance one needs to stay on budget. The first step toward planning your financial future is usually the hardest, but regardless of when you begin, the basics remain the same.

Here are the six most important steps to get started with your financial planning: