NEW YORK — You've just returned from your honeymoon and now your life as a married couple begins.

But there are five important financial steps newlyweds need to take — and the sooner, the better, advises the Life and Health Insurance Foundation for Education, or LIFE, in Washington:

1. Start an emergency savings fund. You never know when the unexpected might occur, so it's a good strategy to always have at least six months of after-tax income in a savings account or money-market fund.

2. Get life insurance. "What newlyweds need to determine is that in the event of the death of either of them would the survivor suffer a financial loss?" says David Woods, president of LIFE. As a couple, you depend on each other for a variety of things, not least financial support. Having adequate insurance will provide you the comfort of knowing that either one will have money to cover expenses and debt in the event of an untimely death.

3. Share your secrets. Before you marry, be aware of what shape your partner is in financially. "There should be full disclosure about financial situations," Woods says. "Nothing will bring stress into a marriage quicker than finding out your partner is bringing in $30,000 in college student loans."

Returning from your honeymoon is a good time to have the talk about the specifics of your finances, such as investment accounts, savings, insurance and mortgages. It's also crucial to begin to tackle any outstanding debt you or your partner may have as your credit score will draw on the records of each of you.

4. Create a will. Each of you should have an updated will, designating who will get what in the event one of you dies. Decide who will be the executor of your will and whether you need to choose guardians or trustees. You should also create a living will, which lets your partner know your wishes in case you are ever placed on life support. You and your spouse should each also designate a power of attorney, which you grant to someone whom you authorize to manage your finances if you're ever unable to handle them yourself.

5. Don't do it alone. Getting advice from a qualified financial adviser will help you achieve your priorities in terms of financial planning, such as buying a home, securing your children's education or retiring comfortably.

For more information, go to www.Life-Line.org.