Got financial questions? Ask your Camden financial advisor
By: Karla Frazier 10/01/2008
How do I make the right choices for my 401/IRA? How do I deal with my debt/budget situation so I can realize my goals? What's the best way to save for college expenses? Conflicting attitudes about money are causing problems in my family, what can I do? When is the right time to get long term care insurance? What about estate planning...a will, power of attorney or living will? Is it possible to educate my teenagers about financial matters?
As a financial advisor with a business and a home in the Camden I hear these questions and more from clients, friends and neighbors. I think I can help answer those questions. I have a B.S. majoring in finance and worked at the corporate level as a financial analyst for 10 years before deciding to work on a more personal level. That led me to pursue what is considered the gold standard in financial planning, a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation. CFPs must master 89 topics on integrated financial planning. Topics cover major planning areas such as: general budgeting/financial goals, insurance, employee benefits, investments, income tax and retirement.
Certification also involves an extensive background check, compliance with ethics standards and has continuing education requirements. I am also a Registered Investment Advisor and a member of the Financial Planning Association. I especially value my time as a volunteer with the nonprofit Personal Finance Center. In addition, I am a single mom with a son at the U and a daughter at home, who will hopefully make it through her teen years. And I truly enjoy working with people to reach their financial goals. I know it's kind of nerdy, but I actually read mutual fund prospecti and insurance policy declarations.
Over the years, I have found that it is common for people to think that financial planning is only for the very wealthy or that it only involves investment issues. Most understand that financial planning is critical, but they don't have the time or expertise to develop a plan. They are unaware that financial planning is for everyone and that a comprehensive approach is best. In an effort to change that perception and make a difference in our Camden Community, you are invited to send in your financial questions.
Now I realize there are differing levels of sophistication when it comes to finances. But I believe that no matter where you are in your financial life, there are plenty of others who are concerned about the same things as you are and will be glad the question was asked. Especially in these tough economic times, a bit of financial information and advice could help relieve some stress here in our neighborhood. So let me know what worries you, what is causing you concern or maybe you have just been interested in. I like to remind clients of something Warren Buffett says, "Risk comes from not knowing what you're doing."
Questions? Email info@camdenews.org.