There are a variety of viewpoints on how social media influences our society – both good and bad. After all, some people are spending hours a day on these platforms and we need to be aware of their impact. From our vantage point, we’re paying close attention to how these networks influence our clients’ spending,…

Discussing finances with aging parents is never easy. As a result, many families simply delay these conversations or avoid them altogether. This can lead to unexpected financial surprises, misunderstandings, and even conflicts down the road. By talking openly about money, you ensure both their future and yours are secure, prevent potential disputes, and help in…

At Forma Financial Planning, we set ourselves apart by working with our clients in a fully virtual environment. But before we explain why we have chosen to set up our practice this way, it’s important that we set the stage for what it means to work virtually.  This means that instead of having a physical office building, all of…

When it comes to saving for your child’s education, 529 plans are a popular choice due to their tax advantages and flexibility. However, there are several lesser-known aspects of 529 plans that can enhance your saving strategy. Here are five things you might not know about 529 plans: 1. You aren’t limited to the 529…

Herd mentality is the tendency to follow the actions of a larger group, even when those actions might not be in one’s best interest. When it comes to finances, herd mentality can have significant implications for your investments and retirement planning. The first step to avoiding this common bias is understanding its prevalence. Second, is…

Compound interest might sound complex, but it’s actually based on a very simple principle: earning interest on your interest. Here’s a clear and simplified way of understanding this important concept. Imagine you save some money, let’s say $100, which grows at 10% annually. At the end of the first year, you earn 10% interest on…

It may be surprising to hear, but even those who’ve accumulated substantial wealth may still worry about money. While financial success often brings comfort, it doesn’t alleviate every fear, insecurity, or concern. These fears run deep, often stemming from childhood experiences, societal pressures, or the responsibility of managing wealth. Understanding the psychology behind this phenomenon…

Receiving an unexpected sum of money can be a welcome surprise, but deciding what to do with it can be a challenge. Should you save the money or pay down debt? Invest the funds or donate to charity? It can be fun to treat yourself to something special, but also consider using some of it…

The good news? Retirees are living longer. The bad news? Many aren’t planning for it financially. Life expectancy is a key piece of retirement planning. After all, you’ll need to estimate your lifespan to determine how much money you’ll need to retire comfortably. Many pre-retirees speculate on this figure or overlook it entirely. So, how…