The recent economic roller coaster has left everyone-- from Wall Street hot-shots to blue collar workers-- feeling queasy. While the hefty $700 billion dollar buyout may be on the horizon, the effects of the Wall Street slide are hitting the homes of Americans everywhere now. Follow these tips to ensure your financially secure now and throughout the next fiscal year.
Check the Piggy Bank
Be sure that your hard-earned money or savings is FDIC-insured. This means that up to $100,000 per person on your account will be insured by your bank. If you're not sure whether you're covered, use this tool to determine who's insured and who isn't.
Hibernate for the Winter
Who knows what the winter could bring besides the usual freezing cold temperatures and snowflakes. Create a winter emergency fund in case of, well, emergencies. Calculate your anticipated monthly expense for one winter month, multiply by 3 (or 6 if you're really ambitious) and start saving!
Not sure where to get the extra dough? Cut back spending on dining out, gourmet coffees and movies; opt for brown-bagged lunches or outdoor picnics, grocery store coffee and $1 movie rentals from redbox.
Be Indispensable 
The financial crisis at hand has had everyone worried- including your employers. Some companies are facing major cut-backs, and your job might be at risk. If you're seeing signs of the pink slip, make yourself an integral part of the company (if you are already, then congratulations!). Evaluate the company and brainstorm a few ideas to decrease spending and increase productivity, such as four day work weeks or telecommuting options.
If you think your company might be downsizing, prepare yourself both emotionally and on paper. Re-read your resume, add new accomplishments and bolster your successes with documents that prove it (ie: 'Nice work, Bill' emails). Also, assess your skills. Is there an area you should receive more training? Consider enrolling in an online continuing education course to expand your range of capabilities; you'll look like a go-getter with a positive outlook despite the dismal economic circumstances.
For those that are waiting for the hammer to drop, don't wait to find your next job. Browse freelancing sites such as iFreelance and SoloGigs to start earning now.
With these tips in mind, no matter what the outcome of the bailout, you'll be secure financially. If you have additional tips or suggestions on how to weather this rough ride, please let us know in the comments!