By Colleen Weber, CFP^®, CPA

Banks play a vital role in the economy, providing individuals and businesses with access to cash, credit, and other financial services. Despite their importance, however, banks can fail. And when they do, the effects often cause panic in the wider economic environment. 

By Colleen Weber, CFP^®, CPA

The events of the last few weeks in Ukraine have been stressful and upsetting to many of us. The buildup of Russian forces along the border, rising tensions, and the ensuing attack have caused worldwide shockwaves. People across the globe are understandably concerned and anxious. 

By Colleen Weber, CFP^®, CPA

In just one year, we’ve seen shocking increases in prices as inflation degrades the value of our money right before our eyes—with no clear end in sight. Case in point: gas is up 58%, meat 13%, food 6%, and used vehicles 31%. (1) For months we were told the current inflation crisis was transitory, what seemed like a slight inconvenience. But now it’s official: after months of being told the current inflation crisis is transitory, Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell announced that we can expect high inflation to continue into 2022. (2)

By Colleen Weber, CFP^®, CPA

I am so pleased to share with you two new developments at Colleen Weber CPA, CFP this summer. To my great delight, our company has been recognized as a top firm by Accounting Today magazine, which is a testament to the hard work we’ve done together over the past year. 

By Colleen Weber, CFP^®, CPA

If you’re currently looking for a new financial advisor, Google has likely already informed you that there are different subsections of advisors based on how they are compensated. There are fee-only financial advisors, fee-based financial advisors, and commission-based financial advisors. So what exactly is the difference? 

By Colleen Weber, CFP^®, CPA

It’s impossible to go through life without making mistakes—they’re just a part of being human. In fact, we often learn from mistakes of the past to make better decisions in the future. However, when it comes to retirement, there are no do-overs. In this major financial transition, you go from earning an income and growing your wealth to depending on it and trying not to outlive it. Even if you’ve been planning and saving on your own for decades, retirement is not a time to go on autopilot. To make sure things go as planned, you must make a few key decisions and take a few key actions. Let’s discuss 5 common mistakes retirees make and what you can do to avoid them. 

By Colleen Weber, CFP^®, CPA

The new year has begun, and we are all trying to keep our resolutions: eating healthier, exercising more…but that pint of ice cream in the freezer is calling your name. I can’t help you keep all your New Year’s resolutions, but I can help you with your financial plan. You should reevaluate your financial plan on a regular basis, and the start of a new year is as good a time as any. Here are a few items to keep in mind when reviewing your plan. 

By Colleen Weber, CFP^®, CPA

The holidays are fast approaching and the new year is following closely behind. And while most of us want to put 2020 behind us, before you mentally move into 2021, be sure to pay some attention to your taxes. Even though taxes are not at all festive, proactively planning can save you money, and that’s cause for celebration! Here are some year-end tax strategies that you may benefit from.

By Colleen Weber, CFP^®, CPA

While Thanksgiving became an official holiday in 1870, Americans have been taking part in this tradition of gratitude since the Pilgrims arrived on our shores. Since then, our country has experienced wars, depressions, natural disasters, social upheavals, and international crises, and still we come together at this time of year to remember what’s important and be grateful for what we have. This year, in the middle of a global pandemic and a charged election season, we think it’s more important than ever to celebrate Thanksgiving and turn our minds to our many blessings.

By Colleen Weber, CFP^®, CPA

ln theory we all know that medical bills can be ridiculously high. But did you know that the average medical bill for a heart attack is $20,246? (1) With a number this staggering, it’s no wonder people are more afraid of healthcare costs than sickness itself. (2)