Do you balance your checkbook regularly? If you're neglecting this task, you're not alone. But learning to use your check register to monitor your personal finances can be a very valuable skill.

If you've been ignoring the check register that came with your new personal checks - you could be making a huge mistake. It's not a bad idea to order a few extra registers in case you run out of room before you run out of personal checks.

For those of you already using personal checks as a way to pay bills and make purchases, you're well on your way to better management of your personal finances.

You've probably noticed that it's much easier to spend money you don't have when you use a credit or debit card. But you'll find it nearly impossible to write out personal checks without realizing exactly how much you are spending.

Using Your Check Register

Before beginning to document your financial transactions, write your current account balance in the top right corner of the register page over the word "BALANCE." Don't forget to look for any payments or withdrawals that still have to clear the bank.

Use the "Number or Code" column on the far left to enter the check number, or other type of transaction such as an ATM withdrawal, or an automatic payment. There are also columns to record the date of the transaction, a section to describe the transaction, columns for money going out, money coming in, and of course for your account balance.

You can choose from two different methods for using your check register effectively. One technique is called the Double-Line Method, and the second is known as the Single-Line Method. You'll be able to record extra details using the Double-Line method, but the Single-Line method allows you to make more entries.

Double Line Method

When using the Double-Line Method in your check register, you'll use the white line to record who the check was made out to and the amount of the check. The tinted or gray line is used to record the purpose of the entry and your current balance.

For example: Let's say your checking account balance is $500. If you used a personal check to buy groceries, the white line might read - "Franks Foodmart - $97.00 (in the payment column and the balance column). You could then put something like this in the gray line - Groceries - $403 (in the balance column).

With the Double-Line Method it's fairly easy to do the math inside of your register. The reason is you are subtracting payments or adding deposits to update your balance.

Single Line Method

The biggest advantage of the Single Line Method is that you'll be able to record a higher number of entries. But remember, if you need more check registers you can order them for just $1.49 each.

The Single-Line Method involves recording a little less information and writing your balance on a single line. In other words, the white and gray lines are used for the same purpose.

For example: If you were paying a student loan, the transaction description could read the name of the lender or something more generic such as "school loan.Next, write down the payment amount and the updated balance on the same line.

Creating a Budget

You can also use your transaction register to help make a personal budget. After recording all your financial transaction for about four weeks, you should have a clear picture of how much money you make and how much you are spending each month.

Take a close look at where you're spending your money. Hopefully there is some money left over at the end of the month. If not - it's time to look at making some changes.

Of course, there are a lot of payments you need to make each month, but are there areas in your life where you could cut back? Maybe it's time to start cooking at home more and eat at restaurants less often? Could you find a less expensive cable TV package? Is putting those credit cards away for a time a good idea so that you save money? Every little bit counts!

Remember...keeping track of your personal finances when you order personal checks online, and using your very valuable check register will lead to a happier and less stressful life.