Guaranty Association Benefits Company

Many people do not plan for their needs LTC coming because they think the government will pick up the tab. In reality, this is simply not true unless you are eligible for Medicaid (generally those with less than $ 2,000 in assets). Since 70% of people over 65 will require some type of long term care in their lifetime, according to the U.S. government, this is a serious mistake to be made. That's why.

Medicare limits coverage of long term care services. In general, it will cover home care if it is part of the recovery is that you are supposed to get better soon. If you receive care in an institution, they can only cover the first 20 days. 21-100 day you are responsible for a large daily copayment, currently just over $ 150 per day. Medicare does not provide benefits after 100 days. So what?

This is why it is so important to consider the long-term care insurance. It pays for a wide range of services and support that are generally not covered by medical insurance or Medicare. The type of care it covers fall into a range of services to have help at home all the way to nursing home care. In addition to protecting pension assets and provide options for care, most long-term care insurance policies come with care coordination benefits. This means that at the time of application, a specialist will help you find appropriate care and establish a plan to suit your needs and preferences.

Because this type of insurance can be complicated, it makes sense to sit down with an expert LTCI, who can guide you through your options and find a solution that suits your budget.

If you think that your retirement will look like your retired parents or grandparents, think again. Here are three things you should consider:

1. The Bank of Mom and Dad will not always open. There are two sides to this. If you're supporting your adult children, you are not alone. A study by BMO Wealth Institute, 81% of parents say they have provided their adult children with financial support. However you want to assess whether it is possible to maintain in the long term. Ask yourself: Does my adult child help (buy a house, pay for holidays, the transition to a new job ...) to my own financial future in danger?

If you answer "No, it will not affect my financial well-being," then it is OK to continue your support as long as you have the assets to back it up and your financial situation will deteriorate in the future. But if you realize that your children continue supporting means financial sacrifices from you, and lowering your own standard of living, then you need to have a frank conversation with them. I would also suggest that financially support your long-term adult children sends the message that you do not really trust them.

Now, the other side of it. If you are on the receiving end of money from your parents, just know that the escalating costs of retired health care, market volatility and other factors, can stop the largesse of your parents, or potentially erase any legacy they would like to pass along, if you or they like it or not. Less than half of respondents in the BMO survey said they would sacrifice their own financial well-being to financially support their children. Bottom line: Based on your parents are not a solid financial plan.

2. the costs of health care will be an important factor in retirement. This year, premiums for health insurance have increased significantly, while the social security benefits declined for those making more than one individual, although limited, amount of money. I found that most people are not planned for the rapidly escalating costs of medical care in retirement. future medical expenses of a person will be the great unknown. But here's a number that can help you put things into perspective. retirement health care cost estimates Fidelity shows that a couple, both aged 65 years and retired this year, can now expect to spend about $ 245,000 on health care throughout retirement . Are you ready for this?

3. You may or may not need life insurance. If you have enough assets, and do not try to replace them if you or your spouse or partner were to die, you may not need as much life insurance you once had. But when looking at the direction of the economy, you have to ask yourself: "If anything happens to me, my spouse or partner to change their lifestyle because of insufficient assets" If so, keeping your insurance? -Life can make sense Think of it this way. with the assurance of life, it puts you in the position to "be the bank" instead of "having to go to the bank" when the need money arises.

The bottom line is that you approach retirement, you need to look to the future with clear eyes, considering all the "if." Next, make sure you sit down with an advisor or agent that can help mitigate these what ifs with the type and the appropriate amount of insurance and planning. If you do not have an agent or adviser, you can use our Agent Locator here.

Many people make the assumption that life insurance is for married couples and those with children. It is true that every single need life insurance, there are a number of reasons when it can do (really) good sense.

1. You have a student loan debt. Many people assume that your debt dies with you, but this is not always the case. While lending by the federal government are discharged (aka forgiven) if you were to die, personal loans have a cosigner usually do not. This means that if your parents, for example, co-signed your student loan by a bank, they would be responsible to pay the remainder of the loan if something happened to you. There are cases where the bank has called for the loan to be paid in full immediately after death. You do not want to let your parents deal with grief and loan payments.

2. You live with your significant other. financial responsibility when you live together, much is shared. Consider this example: You need both your income to meet the mortgage or rent where you live. Have you thought about what happens if one of you dies prematurely? Is another partner obliged to sell up? Find a new place to live immediately? And this is just one example of many shared financial responsibilities couple. adequate life insurance is an easy answer to these questions.

If your parents co-signed your student loan through a bank, they would be responsible to pay the remainder of the loan if something happened to you.

3. You are planning to have children ... someday. It may not be now, but when children come, as expenses and bills. According to the USDA, it costs $ 245,340 to raise a child of 18, and that is without considering the cost of college. Get life insurance in place now means that you have the coverage in place when you have a child. In addition, you protect your insurability for the future. ... And that brings us to the following reason.

4. You are young and healthy. The age and health are two main factors to how much you pay for life insurance. Why not block a lower price if you have both of those who work for you? Did you know that the health of 30 can get a 20-year $ 250,000 term life insurance policy for about $ 13 a month? Doable, right? Do not expect a health problem or age puts life insurance out of your reach.

5. You know you'll take care of family members in the future. This may mean aging parents or maybe you have a special needs sibling that help you care and support financially. What would happen to them if something happened to you and your support gone? Life insurance can ensure that there is money in place to fund these requirements in the future. This is where it might be wise to consider a permanent life insurance policy (one that is there for your life, as long as you pay your premiums).

6. It will pay for your funeral. Nobody likes to think about such things, but the truth is that if you die, someone will pay for your funeral. You would not let your parents, partner or other family members struggling with the pain and to pay for a funeral and burial, which can cost an average of $ 7,100.

Get life insurance does not have to be a daunting task. A life insurance agent can guide you through your options-free. If you do not have an agent to work, click here for more information on finding the right person and in your area.

Many people in their 40s are facing an uncomfortable fact: They are just not where they had hoped to be financially. Fortunately, all their life experience can help correct past mistakes.

"There are a different start time for everyone," said Jay Howard, consultant and financial partner to the financial MHD in San Antonio, Texas. "But no matter when he comes, people gather looking down the barrel of a gun as they consider retirement. "

one challenge is that it is impossible to advise 40-somethings based on demographics" life stages "tidy. Some just starting families, while others send children to college. They are married, single, divorced, and just about everything else

But for those who are still struggling with financial instability, these four principles can help move forward with confidence.

1. Acknowledge what you have done right.
There could be a great decision sandwiched between some fail, or just one good habit that can mitigate the impact of a host of wrongs.

Take the example of Kiera Starboard, a 46 year-old controller in a San Diego software company. A mother of two adults and a teenager son son-she always have enough life insurance to both term and permanent priority, the result of his previous training as financial advisor. "Even if it was tight, I made the payments," she said. "It was a priority for the sake of my family, for my own peace of mind."

In contrast to the 40% of Americans have no life insurance, Starboard was protected when the unthinkable happened last August Less than two years after her marriage, her husband, Steve, was killed while riding his motorcycle to work in a month after they bought a smaller, the life insurance policy to supplement its coverage the employer.

"In having to face financial difficulties above all else, it would have been unbearable, incapacitating," says Starboard. "My son-and I certainly are in a much better position today than we would have been, had Steve and I followed the advice I used to give to others."

2. Take steps to consolidate the coming decades.
for many, the hardest part can be to learn to put your own long-term future of first sometimes for the first time in your life.

"I see people focusing on college savings for their children, and not enough on retirement or an emergency fund for themselves," says Starboard.. many counselors emphasize that children can borrow for college if necessary, but no one can borrow for retirement

the most important step is clear, said Howard. "You must have a written financial plan, period Because this plan will dictate what you need to do to be successful all of your life.

"The financial plan is your roadmap," he continues. "In this portfolio will be your needs, your savings goals, and your insurance related needs."

Finally, make sure your plan takes into account inflation, usually estimated at 3% per year. said Howard, "inflation is the silent killer that eats your nest egg."

3. Apply wisdom fought hard you won.
"Treat numbers obtained by your plan such as savings the invoices to be paid monthly," advises Howard. When the money comes in, it's easy to start thinking about a new kitchen or a trip to Tulum. "Just be patient and keep the bills paid."

using this wisdom also applies to the big stuff. As executor to the estate of her husband, Starboard chose to take major decisions. "in a loss before, I engaged in real estate transactions and other things prematurely. At the time, the good thing we really had to do, but my pain clouded my perception. I had a painful expensive learning lesson. "

4. Concentrate on your bright future indeed.
Forward thinking is an essential part of your financial plan, says Howard." Getting help really consider this type of retirement you want. For each aspect, really drill down. For example, where do you live? Want to be close to your grandchildren? Will you have the money to go see? At what frequency? There are no financial planning, it is planning for life ".

If all forward thinking feels presumptuous, Howard reminds eminently quotable Yogi Berra, who said, "If you do not know where you go, you can not get there"

And finally, remember the simple refrain: .. it's never too late

Here are some "good reads" The Word of insurance blog in the past year. Happy Holidays to all and best wishes for health and happiness for the New Year!

Care-A long-term personal history

What happens when the money is yours to take

Bent are you doing things hard?

How much is enough?

Here's your chance for a Do-Over

There is only one reason to buy life insurance

Insurance-An Anti-Aging Secret Life ?

The hidden need

Congress finally resolved the issue of property taxes last month. Really? No, they put on another temporary patch for the next two years.

What does this mean for you? If your property is valued at $ 10 million or less and you are married, you might be able to spend your entire estate to your heirs without federal estate tax ($ 5 million exemption x 2). Anything over $ 10 million will be taxed at 35 percent. These figures are for 2011 and 2012 only. After that, there is no certainty that the tax rate will be because the current solution only lasts two years.

Customers are still confused. How do they make long term planning decisions when only short-term solutions are available? What if they have a life insurance for purposes of property tax, but no longer feel it is necessary for the exemption of $ 5 million? What if clients complete insurance and now find they need at a later date because, once again, changing tax laws?

This presents a number of problems. The insurance can be more expensive to buy later because of age or increased medical problems. It may not be possible if the medical condition of the person is severe. political outlook could change and not be as attractive or flexible.

The solution? Keep the current life insurance for two at least the next few years, even if it is necessary based on the 2011 tax rate and 2012. Life insurance is all about safety, security and guarantees. Here's what customers need in their planning, to maintain the current insurance until we see what 2013 brings. Then, hopefully, long-term decisions can be made.

One of the best things that the Foundation Life offers, in my opinion, is his realLIFEstories. These are not advertisements or commercials; do not use actors pretend to be someone else; they do not reflect an idealized situation. Instead, carefully realLIFEstories often tell heartbreaking stories of how people's lives, and the lives of their families, have been affected by death, disability or illness, and how insurance helped them see their way through these difficult times.

A recent video stays with me. John Butcher lost his wife and 6 Tre her mother when she collapsed and died one evening from an undiagnosed heart condition. It was a line that John said a line that hit home to me very simple: "The next day Kara died, I went to Tre dress but realized I did not know where any of her clothes were. Kara took care of it. "this, very ordinary daily event reveled the magnitude of change that would take place in their home.

Kara had purchased life insurance at work, and it was that life insurance that allowed John and Tre move through their grief and change that was not their face worrying about money and make ends meet.

These powerful stories to help others understand what insurance really.

Those agents and advisors who read this blog may have stories of their own to realLIFEstories customer service LIFE Awards Program that demonstrate how insurance they helped purchase family has made a difference in a time of need. For more information, click here.

If the agent, advisor or "profane" like me, take a moment to watch the story of John here and think about how it could translate into your own life.

- women, money and power. Is the title of a recent article by Aimee Johnson, who is responsible for the women's program for Allianz Life. According to Johnson, the women's market is still considered by some as a niche market, but it continues to set the record straight.

Nearly a third of women serve as sole or main breadwinner of the household, according to a 09 report on women in the workforce by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. A more recent study of women and society also notes that 66 percent of wealthy women refer to themselves as the chief financial officer (CFO) of their family. Women also control 60 percent of the wealth in the United States and are involved in 0 percent of family financial decisions.

In other words, the market for women is important. What is equally important is that women are still not receiving the attention they deserve from the financial services sector, while gentlemen, pay attention. LIFE Foundation hopes to change this lack of attention.

The 07 Allianz Women, Money and Power study indicated that only 29 percent of women working with a financial professional. The study found that this was mainly due to a lack of comfort and trust with financial planning, despite the fact that these women are well educated, have successful careers and are managing their daily finances household.

So she asks where is the disconnect?

a main issue is that the financial services industry market approaches women as a group with constant needs, but just like the men's market, they have many different life stages and needs Financial.

The Allianz study found that divorce or widowhood plunged nearly half of all women in the financial crisis or pushing a major change in how they seek financial advice. The average age of widowhood is 58 and just over 44 percent of women over 65 are widowed, as nearly 10 percent of women aged 55-64 (Office of the US Census, 05-07 American Community Survey).

Some of the common challenges faced by widows set include real estate assets and re-titling; change the beneficiary designations on insurance and retirement accounts; establishing a new proxy, by examining the income requirements, and changing the tax status.

Although the initial conversation may need to focus on more immediate issues, such as credit card debt and the development of a new budget, a thorough review debate should occur approximately three areas -. insurance, social security and pensions, including ongoing contributions and distributions from qualified plans

Johnson then highlights specific concerns for insurance needs, social security and retirement. These points are too many to discuss in this short blog, but suffice it to say that women need professional advice to work in these areas.

This year, the Foundation LIFE focus our resources on the market and needs of women. We change our awareness campaigns to ensure we reach out to women in the age group 25 to 50 years, as well as traditional markets. Visit our website during the year for updates.

Genworth Financial has just published a study finding that too many Americans who need life insurance coverage are uninsured, putting their families and futures at risk. According to the study of life jackets Genworth Financial 2011, lone parents at all income levels with children living at home have less insurance for their needs, which could leave their children with little or no options facing an unexpected death. Hear the story of Tracy Basden if you want to see what happens to children in these situations.

The research project found that 69% of single parents with children living at home is the highest percentage of uninsured Americans compared to married parents with children at home (45%) .

The Genworth study also found that only 49% of the adult population of the United States has some type of life insurance coverage. Single people, regardless of whether or not they have children, are 36% below the national level to cover life insurance, according to the study.

According to the survey, single male parents with children living in the household are more assured that single women at all levels of income. Again, Tracy's story is a poignant example of this.

Other findings.

79% of single men who are not homeowners, having children in the household and earning an income of less than $ 50,000 per year are uninsured, against 66% of women in the same category.

percentages do not fall dramatically as income increases. In fact, 79% of single men who are not homeowners having children in the manufacture of household between $ 50.000 to 250.000 per year are uninsured.

More than half (56%) of single women who are not homeowners having children in the household but making more than $ 250,000 are uninsured.

the level of uninsured households tends to increase as the number of children increases, particularly at lower income levels. The percentage increases considerably in the case of five or more children.

The study said that the insurance industry has the opportunity to better educate consumers and give them the tools and resources to help themselves and their families to protect. Sounds like they are talking about the LIFE Foundation. This is exactly what we do :. Educate consumers about what the life and health insurance products are, not just what they are, and encourage them to make the decision themselves and protect their families

The most recent government statistics (09) for the program (SSDI) Social Security Disability Insurance.

• disability benefits were paid to nearly 9 million people.
• average monthly benefit received was $ 1064.30.
• benefits were terminated for 630.074 disabilities.
• workers accounted for the largest share of disabled beneficiaries (87 percent).
• The average age of a beneficiary was about 53.
• men accounted for nearly 53% of the beneficiaries.
• a mental disorder was the diagnosis for about a third of the beneficiaries.

that these figures do not tell you is that according to the administration of social security, about 65 percent of those who apply for disability insurance through security social are discarded, and the backlog of social security disability is so great in some areas of the country that the average wait for a hearing in certain states is nearly two years (0 days).

the National Security Council in 04, a disabling injury occurs every two seconds in America, and Health Affairs reported that illnesses and injuries cause unexpected failures 350,000 per year. According to the Health Insurance Association of America, one in seven workers will be disabled for five years or more during their time in the workforce, and in 05, half of the foreclosures were caused by a deficiency due an unexpected injury or illness.

Yes, SSDI is a great program, but if you become disabled, you qualify, and if so, how long will it take before you start receiving benefits? What will you do for income while you wait to see if you receive SSDI? How long can you go without a paycheck before experiencing financial problems?

May is Disability Insurance Awareness Month the time to protect your paycheck. You have insurance to protect your home, your car, your boat and your bike, but do you have insurance to protect your paycheck? Go to www.protectyourpaycheck.org for more.

the LIFE Foundation "This Moment made possible by My Paycheck" photo competition made me think of all those great moments in my own experience, and how our salaries and our ability earning a significant income are each of us and our families. In this spirit, I offer this "quiz" that CIGNA developed to help people assess and strengthen their awareness of disability insurance.

1. True or False: People who work do not need disability insurance because they are covered by insurance for workplace accidents.
Answer: False. Insurance of accidents only covers injuries or illnesses acquired at work, while the majority of accidents and illnesses are not work-related, according to the National Security Council.

2. True or False: People who work can completely rely on their accumulated sick leave if they miss work because of illness or injury.
Answer: False. An absence related to disability can last much longer than the sick leave credits of an individual. Disabilities are not necessarily catastrophic events, but may vary from broken bones, pregnancy, surgery, treatment of a disease, etc. The recovery time is unique to each situation.

3. True or False: Most people have enough savings to cover their living expenses if they can not work because of a disability.
Answer: False. Disabilities can last for months or years, and many people are not saved enough to cover living expenses for long.

4. True or False: short-term disability covers a portion of the salary of an individual for a year.
Answer: False. Short-term disability insurance generally covers children up to about six months, while the long-term disability insurance provides coverage for longer periods.

5. True or False: People who work do not need disability insurance as they have medical insurance.
Answer: False. Medical insurance offers protection for covered medical expenses, but will not replace the income is needed to pay a mortgage, car payment or other household bills.

If you got three or more right answers, good for you! But no matter how you did on the quiz, there is much more you can learn about disability insurance. The LIFE Foundation offers many great resources to www.protectyourpaycheck.org.

Although the value of having disability insurance can not be overstated, it is also important to be aware of programs that can help prevent disability.

Use your Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Many employers offer an EAP that can help people cope with stress, depression, addiction and work / life balance. Many disability absences are related to behavioral health problems such as these, so that the EAP can play a crucial role in helping people to stay healthy and avoid a lack of disability. EAPs are free to the employee and completely confidential.

Stay well and minimize health risks. Many employers offer programs to help you quit smoking, lose weight, eat better, sleep better, manage stress or get more physical activity. As a program of employee assistance, these health programs and wellness are generally free to the employee; so if you have them, use them.

Managing a chronic illness. programs that help people manage chronic diseases such as asthma, diabetes or heart disease are also important because they can help prevent chronic disease leading to disability. CIGNA A study shows that people who enrolled in a chronic care program and was a handicap missed nearly four days less than those with a chronic illness who has not participated in a program.

Be sure to take a moment during Disability Insurance Awareness Month in May to learn about this important coverage. This could be the most important thing you do for your financial security and well-being.

Dr. Anfield is Chief of the disability business of CIGNA. Make sure you listen to his podcast "Thinking the future :. How to Protect Your Paycheck "

As we look at the economy, we realize now, there are more than the bullish and bearish investors. There are bulls, bears and bewildered. MetLife says there are actually 10 types of investors. Here is their list: ..

1. snoozers - People who do not think about the future risk of all
2. assets Resisters - People who choose to ignore the risk information future
3. Anxious fixed - Those who can understand future risks but whose anxiety prevents them from taking action
4. Oversleepers -. Those who can consider their time to act as
5. Wood Knockers "come and gone.." - "Work on" They choose optimism, and hope that things will
6. Plan B-ers - people who have a contingency plan, but the plan B can be a "plan" that the name
7. Realistic -.. investors who use past experience to think about the future
8. Stewers and Brewers -. Stewers stories and fret while Brewers play with ideas and planning strategies
9. conciliators - Those who think today and tomorrow and balance their current needs against future risks
10. preemption Planners - .. investors looking to anticipate future risks and their consequences

Where are you on this list not be a Snoozer, Brewer or Stewer or any other of those on the list that are not in action. Talk to your agent / advisor today and become a preemptive scheduler.

school can be, but that does not mean the learnin 'is over. lazy days of summer usually give us a little more time, so take only five minutes for a quick educational video: life insurance 101, where Mark Chandick agent guide you through the basics. Although there is no love after the video, be careful, because as Chandick said, "Buying life insurance can be one of the most important decisions you make in your financial life . "Look here.

A recent study of The Hartford found that Americans are optimistic about their personal finances and saving for retirement. The study shows increased participation in 401 (k) s and other defined contribution plans, especially among baby boomers, Generation X and men. More Americans say they are confident that their personal finances will improve over the next 12 months, and this trend is reflected in more people saving for retirement.

The Hartford found that participation in 401 (k) s and other defined contribution pension plans by employed adults rose to 76% overall in 2011, up 71% in 2010 and up 63% from two years ago. Three groups showed the biggest gains:

• participation-boomers closest to retirement increased to 79%, against 71% in 2010 and 63% in 09.
• 77% of generation X or 32-46 years contributed to their employer pension plan in 2011, an increase of 71% in 2010 and 67% in 09
• participation men jumped to 81%, against 71% last year and 66% two years ago.

The only disappointment in the conclusions was that the participation of young workers 19-31 years showed a slight decrease, and the participation of women is generally flat. Seven out of 10 women contributed to their employer's retirement plan, unchanged from the previous year when women showed greater improvement than men. Participation in retirement plans amongst Gen Y declined 2%.

Overall, most Americans were surprisingly optimistic about their financial future. Asked about the next 12 months, 34% of survey respondents said they were "extremely" or "very confident" that their lives would be improved. Those expressing optimism cited expected improvements in personal finances:

• 53% of said debt reduction and increased savings were part of their financial goals
• 52% said they were "extremely" or "very" confident their personal finances continue to improve
• 42% said their financial future was their main goal.

the search for the Hartford also found that Americans feel better about their lives and 26% said they "live comfortably" in 2011, a 9% increase in 2010. Nearly half of all respondents (48%) said they "meet my expenses with a little left over for extras."

If you are in one of these groups, perhaps the moment has come to reach out to an agent or a consultant to financial guidance necessary to make financial decisions appropriate long-term.

What you happen financially if you were injured or became ill and were unable to work? Your answer might be, "Well, there is a disability program of the government. I'm not really sure what it was called, but I know he is there as a backup if I need. "

Are you sure?

First, we will cross the compensation of the list of workers. This government program only covers you if you are injured or ill as a result of your work. According to the National safety Council, 0% of disabilities occur outside of the workplace, so chances are you will not be covered by the Comp of workers.

Next, examine the program social security disability insurance, which pays disability benefits independent of where the disability occurs.

"Great!" you say. "that's what I'm going to press."

Not so fast.

Did you know that the social security disability insurance program is about to go bankrupt? as reported in this article insurancenewsnet "the dismissed workers and of aging baby boomers are flooding the disability program of social security with applications for benefits, pushing the cash-strapped system to the brink of bankruptcy. " According to congressional estimates, the money in the program is due to short in six years

Section continues to underline a second reason why you should not rely on this program :. "The rush of benefits is adding to a growing backlog of applicants-many wait two years or more before their cases are resolved." (You can read more about my position in disability insurance Month awareness in May.)

now, a third reason to reconsider rely on the government. The federal government defines a disability very narrowly as "unable to perform substantial gainful activity because of a medically determinable physical or mental impairment which can be expected to result in death or has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months. "There are no benefits for short-term disability or partial disability.

and finally, if you were to qualify, the average benefit hovers around $ 1,000. This gives you a" . pay "annual which is below the poverty line

This should make you rethink your strategy to protect your paycheck in the case of a disability Just ask yourself this. How long pourrais- I go without a paycheck before experiencing financial problems? Then take the next step to learn more about disability insurance.

I have an admission really, really embarrassing to do: Jon and I have no real life or disability insurance. I mean, we have a bit-basically what I'm able to access through my employer, which I think is equal to one or two my salary, but nothing more than that.

Nothing to pay our mortgage.

Nothing to heal or educate our children if one or both of us are not able or around to.

Nothing to pay for long term care if one of us takes full hospitalization time or nursing home after an illness or accident.

Nothing.

and I know how awful that is. I really, really do. I do not make excuses. I am fully aware of the serious consequences that would follow if I were to die or become disabled before fixing this problem. That's why this blog is the first time I admitted this incredibly irresponsible thing about myself to anyone-because I know how it is, and I was really mortified by my inability to take care of business . But one thing I've discovered in recent years is that if I'm too embarrassed to say anything out loud, it is quite likely that many other people are in the same boat. Maybe you are one of them. That's why I decided to come clean and share my plan to finally address this serious situation risky in which I left you to finish our family.

So how have I-40 something married mother of five, the main professional support to our family, myself without owner-find enough life or disability insurance? Well, I'll tell you how. Back in my 20s when my older children were babies and small children, I kept putting it off. For starters, the money was really tight at the time, and a healthy 27, the idea of ​​dying or becoming severely disabled seemed so unlikely that even if I continued to talk about how I had to know how buy the right insurance, I just never did. Even then, I knew in the back of my mind that I was taking a big risk, but some other charges seemed always come first. "I'll take care of that later," I thought.

But "later" just never seemed to happen. Even when I hit my 30s and really learned that I really need to take care of this important responsibility, it seemed so confused. I found myself overwhelmed and intimidated by trying to understand the whole of life insurance "thing." Everyone I asked about the subject of insurance seemed to have a different recommendation. The options were confused, and left me paralyzed with indecision. So I kept putting it off.

At one point, a friend did not recommend his insurance agent. She assured me that he would explain the life insurance options in a way that I can understand and help me walk through the types and brands of countless political and confused, and find me the best price. Instead, however, that particular agent was uncomfortable persistent, and since I already felt very intimidated by this task now much delayed buying the life insurance and disability law, his style, which have aggressively could be good for some customers, but ended up being the bad match for me, given me yet another excuse to turn and run the other way. I stopped answering the phone and deleted voice messages.

And another year passed without me locate and purchase insurance, I was now painfully aware that I had. And another ... and another ... and then, at some point, the fact that I did not have enough insurance has become its own stumbling block; I was embarrassed to take the phone and call an agent, knowing that I have to 'fess up to what I had put this off for so long. I worried that I would be judged, so it gave me yet another (bad) justification to continue to avoid my responsibility in the matter.

But now I know that the time has come. I can not hide it for another year, and I know that. This knowledge that I have to stop avoiding the issue has weighed very, very heavily on my mind lately, so it was rather fortuitous when the LIFE Foundation asked me if I wanted to blog about my personal experience as a parent with the most important type of insurance thing I have to take care of on behalf of the family, I love the family that depends on me. I'm not sure that the LIFE Foundation realized when they reached me they would get as a naked soul of admission, but I decided that I go ahead and tell the truth on my own inability to care. this critical financial planning necessary in the hope that others might be able to link

So let me introduce myself: Hello. My name is Katie and I am an adult and a parent who does not have enough life or disability insurance. I guess some of you and probably some of you may be in the same boat. But starting today, Jon and I will be using online planning tools decidedly non-intimidating (and free) to LifeHappens.org to understand what the heck we need, and how much, and that it will cost. And armed with that knowledge for the first time (!!!), we will actually talk to an agent-whose style is a good match for us to know how to proceed to the second step in the process of protection people we love the most.

course, I have done much earlier, but with something this important, what I do is important now more than I do not have it then. I know, and for any of you who may be in the same place, I wish to "come clean" myself, you may be inspired to take that first step for yourselves and your families as well.

Most of the time I am a marketer of life insurance mild-mannered, hard working on my laptop in the tranquil limits my home office in New Jersey. No agitation. No glamor. No lights.

But one day each year, all that changes. Suddenly, I find myself surrounded by lights and sometimes the fans swooning. I am in the presence of celebrity. Yes, it is my annual pilgrimage to Hollywood to shoot a video with the new spokesperson for Life Insurance Awareness Month.

The setting of the session this year was a gymnasium of the high school in the San Fernando Valley, an appropriate place considering that our new spokesperson is twice NBA champion Lamar Odom. We're showing that we would do the filming that day, but school officials knew and students were abuzz in anticipation of the arrival of one of their local heroes. Some waited nearly two hours to catch a glimpse of Lamar. Finally, an elegant white Mercedes pulls up with dark tinted windows. He parked, but no one emerges for a while. Lamar ends a call. Then it comes to wearing the sweatsuit coolest people I know. Kids are giddy with excitement. Lamar sign autographs and pose for a few photos, but then it's time to get to work.

We start from a conference room to discuss the plan for the afternoon. Lamar could not be nicer. He sits in the chair of a director having little makeup applied by makeup artist who works with the entire Kardashian clan. He said that it can take up to several hours for each of the women Kardashian ready for their public appearances and taping sessions. But the guys are much easier. In 10 minutes, Lamar is ready to go. It changes quickly in a black suit looking smart, blue shirt and tie, and head to the gym for recording.

There's just one thing we need to do before you start. Entertainment Tonight has requested an interview with Lamar to talk about public service announcement (PSA) campaign and other things going on in his life. Lamar gives them a glimpse of what he will communicate in its public service messages. The journalist also slips in a question about reports that he and Khloé are trying to conceive. You can watch the clip here and.

Then it's time to focus on life insurance.

The recording session works very well. Lamar is passionate in his belief of the importance of life insurance. His public appeal comes from its very personal story of loss at a young age: "My mother worked hard to give me the opportunity to live up to my potential. But unfortunately it never got to see me grow up to be the person I am today. My mother died of colon cancer when I was 12 years old. Things could get difficult for me, but my mother made sure that did not happen. Life insurance gave me the foundation to move forward in my life and it can do the same for your family. "We only need a few takes for each segment, and there is an envelope on the public service announcement Lamar.

Lamar sign some T-shirts Lakers and glossy photos for us to give during life insurance awareness Month. We say our goodbyes. he leaves the gym and students are still waiting for him. he posed for some photos and autographs of the signs, then it's off.

My brush once a year with fame is over. time to take home red eyes.

I do not normally write messages on book reviews, but I recently read a book by Hill Harper hit home for the readers of our blogs. Hill Harper, a New York Times bestselling author and star of the television series CSI: NY, released his fourth book This is a book on financial literacy, but not in the traditional sense "The Cure wealth. ". This book is to be responsible for your own actions and your attitude to life's problems, both financial and emotional, and helps you understand your personal wealth factors.

After being diagnosed with thyroid cancer, Harper took a train trip cross country to Chicago for solitude and time to reassess his life and value propositions. Hill points out that true wealth is not always money, but your friends, your family, your health and your happiness factor. Money in itself does not guarantee happiness, but as the saying Hill, it does help to have your financial world works correctly with little or no debt.

In essence, the book emphasizes that we are responsible for our own actions and how we react to situations which we are exposed. We need to look at the problems that the opportunities for improvement. It is how we react to these issues that will determine our happiness factor.

Harper walks us through his emotions and reactions to the diagnosis of cancer and how it enabled him to rethink and re-evaluate its relationship and personal goals. This book is not for people looking for a quick and easy solutions. It is for those who want to take control of their lives, make the tough decisions and take appropriate action on those decisions.

Apple CEO Steve Jobs was released yesterday; his biographer, Walter Isaacson speaks frankly genius of Mr. Jobs here. I watched with respect and wonder how people around the world reacted to his death. More than a million people from all over the word shared their memories and feelings about Mr. Jobs on the Apple website.

There was certainly an innovator, and the products that Apple sells contributed to an easier and more enjoyable way of life for many people. I am even typing this blog on my iPad.

However, it was just a man.

It reminds me of how people reacted when Elvis Presley died. Here in my hometown of Memphis, people come from all over the world every year to celebrate the anniversary of Elvis' death. We call this week "Dead Elvis week." I have to wonder if Apple fans will do the same for the anniversary of the death of Mr. Jobs.

The famous and influential people have this effect on others.

However, the real question is: How are you will remember your family and friends? Of course, things like souvenirs, caring friends and faith are all important and likely to help ease the emotional trauma your family will feel when you, like Steve Jobs is no longer with us.

But most mere mortals that I know do not have the financial wealth that Steve Jobs had, so how we plan for "life after the financial death" our aura family is absolutely essential.

life insurance serves this purpose better than any other product I know.? I know, you think life insurance

Do not think that the insurance life is ... think about what he not

life insurance finance future permits to pursue dreams and maintains families in their homes and their schools of choice. It replaces lost income, provides peace of mind, allowing time to adjust, and, if I may put it bluntly, even creates your financial legacy.

Legacies last forever. Will yours be one of comfort, convenience and financial security for your family? Or other able to tell your lack of planning by the changes your family might be forced to do because all they have is memories and friends and caring neighbors, but not the financial capacity to maintain their way of life? Does your family want? Do you feel they need?

Call your financial advisor today if you want to know how to use life insurance to fund your financial legacy.

Donna had the chance to follow the footsteps of his sister. His older sister had bought an insurance policy for long term care, and though Donna was only 56, she thought becomes the cover was a good idea, too.

She also had experience with it. His sick aunt had made great use of his care insurance policy long term, but because she had bought at an age of 80-year peak, premiums had been raised.

Get care insurance long term at a younger age felt like a smart financial move, and he also helped put the spirit of Donna comfortable, since she lived alone. She obtained a policy which provided a cash benefit per day, which meant that it would cover the family and friends who provide care for her at home if it has never been necessary.

She did not know that even before reaching retirement, she would be drawing on its long-term care insurance benefits.

Donna went to the hospital for a partial knee replacement and came out of surgery with a fractured tibia. The doctors knew something more serious was wrong. In fact, Donna was then diagnosed with Turner syndrome, a degenerative bone disease.

She was able to continue working as a nurse, but not as a staff nurse. She took the intermittent time for several more surgeries and recover from diseases related to his illness. His care insurance benefit long term helped to pay for care while she was on sick leave, and continued for a few months after her return to work to cover the salaries and the journey in question. She said it was "tremendous help financially."

Finally, her illness took its toll, and Donna found himself unable to continue working. She now lies in its provision of long-term care more more than her disease progresses. in comfort is the fact that although family and friends continue to help her, she is able to pay them for their time, effort and gas thanks to its long-term care insurance benefits. "I really do not know what I would have done without this benefit," she said.

In addition, now that Donna receives benefits of its policy, it does not have to pay the premium for it, due to extra rider she had set up.

Donna could not know in 56 years how it will rely on its long-term care insurance. And if she had waited until her 60s to buy it, it would have been too late. That's the catch-you can not buy coverage after you discover that you need.

We can not all have an older sister to count on good advice, but we can all tap into the expertise of a knowledgeable financial advisor. Do not hesitate to set up your concerns about how you will pay for long term care. As Donna said, "You can not afford to go without long-term care insurance."

In a recent LIMRA survey of Americans not yet retired, 40% said they currently save no money each month towards retirement .

The LIMRA research indicates that fewer future retirees will have to pay pensions for living expenses and will rely on personal savings to finance their retirement. Without a significant change in saving behavior, many Americans will not have enough money to afford to retire.

The survey also found that 19% have not yet retired adults usually save less than $ 100 a month, while 27% saving $ 100-499 per month. . Even those who have a family income of $ 50,000 or more, a significant proportion-42% -are either a savings of $ 100 or less, or nothing, monthly

Looking at the pre-retirees, results are not much better: 41% of pre-retirees are not set aside money for retirement and just over a fifth (21%) of pre-retirees save less than $ 100 per month.

People may think they are just going to keep working until they die, but research LIMRA shows that 56% of retirees retired before they should and 43 % were unintentional. So the timing of retirement can not be theirs.

Plans sponsored retirement employer, such as 401 (k), 403 (b), etc., are an easy way for employees to save taxes on retirement -free. LIMRA's study revealed that many Americans who have access to one of these plans do not take full advantage of tax deferred savings.

Although 55% of adults surveyed do not contribute at all to a plan sponsored by the employer, of those that do, 48% contribute less than 5% of their annual income. Overall, more than 20% less women contribute to their pension plan sponsored by the employer than men (39% against 50%). In addition, the survey found that women are more likely than men to contribute at least 3% of their income (19% against 13%, respectively).

The good news is, despite the weak economy, only 12% of plan participants reduced their rate of contributions during the past year; 24% increased the amount saved and 64% have kept their same contribution.

As indicated LIMRA, educate people about the benefits of systematic savings is essential. For more information on how to reach your savings and retirement goals, contact your personal consultant or agent or visit here.

We travel a lot as a small family of four - a lot. We schlep somewhere in the country at least once a month, mini carry-ons and comfort blankets for children in tow. At least once a year we do a major pilgrimage to a place really out of our comfort zone, like last summer when we traveled by train through Eastern Europe for a month. It took us a few years to really get the process of packing the kids just right, and it is only now that they are both a little older, I do not have to remember to pack seven kinds of snacks for an airplane trip. But the most important thing I can do is make an emergency plan

Before the luggage is packed and plants watered one last time, my husband and I do something far less glamorous .: calling a brother-in-law to make sure he knows where all the important documents in case of emergency. While my husband and I do not travel together without children, very often, we always travel as we do just so we're safe. We update our list of beneficiaries, and make sure the executor of our will know where it is located and how to get to any problems. In case. God forbid something should happen to one of us in the middle of Europe where we need to get important documents and one at home knows what we're talking about.

Here is a list of basic things to take care of before you leave home:

• Project will: it must not be as detailed as you'll ever leave, but something is better than nothing. Date him, have notarized, and put it somewhere very safe.
• In that determination, the list of beneficiaries of your assets. My husband and I are not the largest collection of wealth, but we do not want to leave the state to decide who gets what when we die.
• Also list what will happen to your children in the will. If you have not had this horrible conversation is now time. There really is not a good way to do this, simply sit down and decide who goes where before you walk from your door; nothing is as important as deciding what will happen to your children should something terrible happen to you and your spouse
• Get a bank in room safe. even if you buy the cheapest available box, you want somewhere safe and out of your home for really important papers to live. Put the key somewhere even safer.
• Put a copy of all your insurance policies in a safe. Make sure a friend or family trust knows the safe and its contents in case of emergency.
• Make copies of passports, birth certificates, insurance policies, mortgage statements and medical records to store in the trunk.
• Put someone in charge of watching your house. Whether or not they remain on the property and care for children, make sure that someone is on your property at least twice a day by taking the paper off the porch, electronic control, recovery packages and turn lights on and off.
• Set up self-pay bills or take care of them during the period of time you'll be away. Nobody wants to come home from a lovely holiday in a notice of termination to the front door.

Now, have a great time on your holiday vacation! No need to worry about anything at home, you have taken care of everything.

A new year is a clean slate. Enjoy the fresh start taking steps that will help you build a better future.

Many people will tell you they do not have time to plan. I say you do not have time to do not. The bottom line is: Life happens. We tend to focus too much on tomorrow and not enough today.

Many Americans have taken steps to save for retirement. And while it important, it should not be at the expense of overlooking the risks that we live every day. What would happen to your retirement plans if you become disabled for a long period of time? What if a major source of income in your family died suddenly?

The loss of revenue from one of these situations could have a major impact on your retirement savings and can leave your family in a financial hole they can not recover. My mother always told me "prepare for the worst but expect the best."

So what are you gonna do?

Here are some quick steps you can put into play today to help you make a difference to the financial future of your family:

1. Be protected.

Stop sitting on the fence. There is no good time, so just do it now.

See what your disability insurance plan is working, if any, and how additional disability insurance can get help if you were to become disabled and unable to work .

life insurance purchase to protect your family. There are many affordable options, including term life insurance. But do not count out to protect your family on the basis of what you think can afford one. Do your homework and talk to a financial professional confidence that can help suggest solutions.

If you buy insurance, be cautious consumer and ask questions about the protection of policy add-ons called jumpers. Riders may give you additional benefits and to increase the peace of mind that if something goes wrong, there is another option that will help you maximize your insurance coverage. For example, a "waiver of premium" drivers means that the company pays the premium of life insurance should you become totally disabled. Some riders are free, but many are available at an additional cost.

2 . repay your debt.

Create a debt reduction strategy for high-interest credit card debt. and stop charging. one of the biggest budgeting mistakes people make is not having paid their debt retirement. Start now and stick with it.

3. Start saving.

successful investors use the concept to first pay every time they receive a paycheck. Check with your employer to see if a portion of your paycheck can be automatically deposited into one or more savings accounts and leave the building.

The sooner you learn to pay you, you will be better in the long run. By starting early, the power becomes a formidable ally in the growth of wealth, and it also opens the way for the construction of that three to six months of advisors emergency salary schemes recommended in case you lose your job.

What do you expect?

People say 50 is the new 40, but delivered with your birthday cards when you turn 50 is your AARP membership card. Yes it's true, your official "Go Pass" in the American Association of Retired. Quite ironic, since retired 50 are not plausible or realistic for 99.9% of us.

So having shredded your AARP card (not special dinners early risers necessary), it's time to get realistic about what you need to do to get your insurance and financial life in 'order. Here's a quick checklist to help you do it.

Make sure your retirement planning is on track. Hiding your head in the sand because your 401 (k) has taken a beating over the past several years is not a pension plan. While it can be painful to dissect what you have now and what you have to register (probably more than you are), it's better than the alternative :. Living in poverty in retirement

Add your life insurance coverage. life insurance rates have fallen recently and is often less today than 10 years ago. Sit down with an agent to make sure you are not too much for your coverage and you have coverage tailored to your risk.

Explore the long-term care insurance. It is important to understand that these are not "home insurance nursing" -80% of people who need long term care services are received in a Community framework, which for many of us will be our home. the long term care insurance protects against financial risk (aka drain your retirement funds) potentially needing long-term care services at home or in an institution, due to illness chronic or disability.

Review your estate plan (or get one if you do not have it). I know this is huge, as it is for me too, and I'm in this business. Keep in mind that the plan you had in place 20 years ago (when choosing a guardian for your children was the key) must be reconsidered. Now it is about more about managing your assets, reducing property taxes and debt. Your advisor may be able to help you with this, or can refer you to someone who can.

Get your legal documents in order. Make sure that you have durable power of attorney, a legal document that gives someone that you trust the ability to act on your behalf if you were to become disabled or incapacitated. Also, be sure to write a health care directive, which gives instructions on medical treatment if you are unconscious or terminally phase permanently.

You did not go alone. If you do not have an advisor, you can find one in your community here.

Did you know that most retirees are not too confident that they have saved enough for a comfortable retirement? In addition, nearly 4 October retirees have not estimated how many years their assets and investments could last for retirement, according to LIMRA study "Does retirement assets last a lifetime."

Enter annuities. Now before you stop reading because the word off, know that you are not alone. According to the "Reclaiming the Future" by Allianz Life, 54% of respondents did not like the term "annuity". But when asked to choose between high returns and guarantees, 69% of respondents said they would prefer a product that was "guaranteed not to lose value," which describes an annuity. When retirement planning, life income annuity ensure the safety, security and a guarantee that you (the annuitant) will not outlive their income.

Annuities have a long history of helping people. I bet you did not know they have been around since the Roman Empire? Here some highlights of the annuity history compiled by Tom Hegna in his book of pay checks and Checks Play

• 225 -. A Roman judge produced the first mortality table known for "annua" who were living in allocations made once a year in exchange for a lump sum payment
• 1776 -. the national pension program for soldiers was adopted in America before the signing of the Declaration of Independence. He provided an annuity payment to the soldiers and their families
• 1812 - .. The Pennsylvania Society for the granting of pensions was founded
• 1935 - President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the social security Act. Social Security is essentially a life income annuity
• 1940 -. Ida May Fuller became the first recipient of the Social Security. She received 35 payments totaling $ 22,000
• 1952 - .. TIAA-CREF offered the first variable deferred annuity, allowing educators to invest some of their retirement shares as a hedge against inflation
• 1986 - Congress passed a tax reform that was deferred annuities one of the few financial products where you can invest unlimited amounts and get the benefit of deferral tax
• 2011 -. Sales of individual annuities reach $ 240 billion

are you a part of the almost half of Americans aged 45 to 70 who have no financial plan in place to protect against depleting their assets and the rising cost of healthcare should they live longer than expected? Security, safety and income, you can not survive. An annuity is the ideal investment for longevity and retirement planning

Statistics are just numbers, until they reached the house with a personal story, right? I read a recent Pew report said marriages in the United States are on the decline. Barely half of adults, 51% Äîjust, AIARE married, and those who marry do so later. Then I started thinking about the drop in sales of life insurance, and I began to wonder if there was a link.

Here, AOS how it gets personal. My son is 30 years old. At his age, I and most of my friends are married; some of us had children as well. But my son took things in a different order, which is common today. He bought a house (a large, responsible thing to do) and his girlfriend long has now moved in with him. They are a family unit in all directions, but the married legal kind.

They took the responsibility of taking care of a house and the merger of two lives. But without this legal commitment, is it really a commitment, financial Äîor at least a mindset of financial commitment?

I think in many cases, including my sound, AOS, the answer is no. Of course, they are committed to the relationship, but if Äúlife happens at? What if something were to happen to my son (God forbid!)? Where it let his girlfriend financially? My husband and I are now the beneficiaries of his life insurance policy. The house he bought in his name. This means the proceeds of life insurance suits us and his house being sold to pay the mortgage, his girlfriend could be left without a place to live. Of course, it would never be my sound, AOS intention. But That, AOS item. We don, AOT for bad things happen, but sometimes our inaction causes.

For my son, it could be as simple as changing the beneficiary of his life insurance policy. But for many other young couples, this means sitting, ask the tough questions and get coverage for life insurance they need.

There are no moral connotation (or shades) to the position. My son and his girlfriend are happy, making her parents happy. This isn, AOT on the marriage itself, but marriage is one of the triggers to get life insurance (as it is to have children, find a new job, etc.). If marriage is not here, so couples need to wake up to the reality of their commitment and assure their love with life insurance

The new question is:.? When does our financial commitment

Tell us: When the financial commitment did it start for you

There is no doubt that the recession has wreaked havoc with the household budget of most Americans. Revenue declined as prices rose, with "robbing Peter to pay Paul" a frequent, if desired, the activity every payday. As times get harder, you may be looking for ways to get your budget under control, evaluating each line item to see if it can be reduced or possibly even eliminated.

Although there are some places to reduce your insurance coverage should not be one of them. If you plan to cancel your life insurance policy to add a few dollars to your bank account, consider these points:

• Chances are when you took the policy, you were healthy. Can you guarantee that the same will be true a few years from now, when you decide that you can afford to buy insurance again? If an unexpected illness occurs, the insurance coverage may not be an option.
• If you are between 25 and 44, you might think you have plenty of time to worry about what would happen to your family when you die. But according to figures from CDC to 2010, about 112,178 of those who died were in the same age group, officials accidents by more than 34% of them.

However, knowing all the reasons to keep your current policy does not solve the economic problem. But a meeting with your insurance advisor can provide you some options. Start by discussing the situation and whether it is a temporary problem (you are between jobs, for example) or something more serious, such as a terminal illness.

In the latter case, your policy can allow you to enjoy an accelerated death benefit, where you can draw some or all of the death benefit for managing current expenses, with the remainder provided your beneficiaries upon your death. This can be very useful if you are unable to work and family depend on your income to pay the mortgage, for example.

Other possible solutions, depending on your situation, may include borrowing against your policy or allocating its cash value to pay premiums, which keeps in force. (Keep in mind which could reduce its cash value and amount of the death benefit.) Some policies come with flexible premiums, allowing you to pay more or less, or even skip premium. Even change the way you pay the premium monthly or quarterly rather than annually, can give you a little breathing room.

Other solutions offered by the website of the Insurance Division of the Oregon include conversion of your policy plan paid the policy, the death benefit reduction to reduce the amount of your premium payments or even ask your recipients to help them pay premiums so they can keep the financial protection you want for them.

Once you and your adviser have agreed a viable solution, it is time to take a hard look at your overall household budget. Look for areas where you can shave some of your outgo and save a little for unforeseen expenses. It is what money guru David Bach designates as taking Latte Factor-money spent on "small" wasteful spending and put it in your savings account. Just $ 5 per day the price of a latte in most regions may add up to an impressive $ 1,825 per year stashed away for a rainy day!

The key is to make the right choice not only for the immediate future but also for the long term. You made a wise decision when you bought your policy. Make another smart solution to keep strength for you and those you love.

Have you put off getting life insurance (or most of it) because you think that It is too expansive? You may want to reconsider when you learn this: Most people believe that life insurance costs nearly three times as much as he does, a new study says LIFE Foundation and LIMRA.

Take this example: the annual cost of 20, $ 250,000, political life in 30 years term for a healthy eating is about $ 150 per year, but Americans believe the cost $ 400!

Here are 10 more facts of the 2012 Barometer study insurance may surprise you. We actually "tweetable" so you can share: click that you would like to tweet and the tweet will be generated for you. And make sure to follow us on Twitter at @LIFE_Foundation.

More than three quarters of Americans believe most people need life insurance. Your family protected? http://bit.ly/tzTqa4

Americans overestimate the cost of life insurance by nearly 3 times! It is more affordable than you think. http://bit.ly/JBwv23

What do you expect? 1-2 Americans without life insurance say they need one! http://bit.ly/IhfF6t

The most important factor when buying life insurance? Be sure you understand what you are buying. http://bit.ly/tzTqa4

the most common excuse for not buying life insurance? Other financial priorities. Time to re-prioritize? http://bit.ly/IhvNqx

New Study: Nearly three quarters of Americans are concerned about the lack of money for a comfortable retirement. http://bit.ly/IhfRmi

Honey, I think you need life insurance. Nearly 3 to 10 testers want their spouse had more! http://bit.ly/IhfF6t

Nearly half of those who need life insurance say they have not bought because he did not have time of it. Oy! http://bit.ly/JrrCGB

Surfing USA! 9 out of 10 people aged 25-44 will use the Internet during the process of buying life insurance. http://bit.ly/tzTqa4

I have some questions for you. 2-3 Americans still prefer to buy life insurance face-to-face. http://bit.ly/InRu7m

During dinner there a few months ago, I learned that a mutual friend (and father of four) had received diagnosed with a rare form of leukemia. Thinking of his children from birth to 5, I immediately wondered aloud if he had life insurance. None of us at dinner was safe.

Since that night, I found myself trying to design a simple message on life insurance that may enter the consciousness of my over-stimulated generation I-34, a mother of two children and stuck somewhere between generations X and Y. I Facebook, I tweet and I live on my iPhone. I work full time and manage most of the finances for our household. Buy through Groupon and consult with my neighbor, Jill, before any major purchase.

Regarding life insurance, I think it all boils down to protection. My friends and I are obsessed with protecting our children against any possible threat, either germ or an Internet predator. And we think about it all day, every day. Hand sanitizer, vaccines against influenza, helmets, even car seats until the child weighs 80 lbs.! Yet we do not buy life insurance. There seems to be a gap somewhere here.

In an effort to raise awareness, I created this one-minute video, viewed as a kind service public announcement about the value of life insurance. Watch and let me know if it resonates with you.

If I had met him in the summer of 03, my life would have appeared almost like yours or your friend or sister or neighbor. I was a wife and mother who works full time and taking care of his family. Balancing the demands of these roles was sometimes difficult, but I felt I was doing a very good job of it.

That is until I entered a crosswalk.

I was in New York City business and was crossing the street with light when an SUV turned the corner and came barreling into me. I was thrown 30 feet into the air. The impact broke my pelvis, and every joint in my body has been damaged. Instantly, my carefully balanced life disintegrated.

I went from being the guard having to be supported. My injuries were so severe that the doctors said that I would never walk. I was bedridden for eight months and needed help with basic tasks we take for granted, such as bathing, dressing and moving. It took seven surgeries and three years of intense rehabilitation and work for me to get to my "new normal". Meanwhile, I am unable to work and earn a living or take care of my family as I had in the past.

one of the key factors that helped me navigate this difficult chapter in my life was my disability.

Our family had counted on the income of both my and my husband. This accident and my being unemployed for almost three years could have decimated us financially. Fortunately, I had planned ahead and obtained disability insurance, which provided me with an income when I was unable to work. This influx of revenue enabled us to stay in our house, pay our monthly bills and medical expenses mount. It also allowed me to hire someone to help with my children and help me, as well. I do not know what we would have done without my disability.

I feel very blessed. It's amazing that I lived and even more amazing that I lead an active life now, including forward with my two sets of twins!

I took on disability insurance that I had then, and I maintain now, because I enjoy what I do for my family I take care of themselves physically, emotionally and I give a salary to pay our expenses. I'm worth it.

The bottom line is, if you need your income, you need disability insurance. And the only time to get it is before you need them.

See the great www.protectyourpaycheck.org calculator to see how much disability insurance you may need.

Some 76 million baby boomers now reaching retirement age, and they represent nearly a quarter of the population of the United -United. The oldest of these, to 66 this year, probably considering retirement or have already done. About 10,000 per day to qualify for social security payments, and many of them have done a poor job in preparing for the faces.

According to an article in the American dream, a social commentary site, as much as 36% of those of generation of baby boomers have not contributed to a retirement plan of any kind. Among those who did, many relied on 401 (k) s and investment portfolios that have been seriously affected by the collapse of markets.

The Research Institute of Employment Benefits reports that 35% of the retirement age people are almost totally dependent on social security benefits for income, and only half of the remaining 65% have savings retirement $ 50,000 or more.

Annual Survey 2010 MetLife Employee Benefits Trends indicated that 62% of the youngest members of the generation of baby boomers and 60% of older members felt they were late in preparing the retirement. The survey also indicated 16% of boomers said they had not started planning for retirement, and 20% said they had no savings at all objective. The MetLife study interviews with policymakers 1,508 full-time employees of enterprises and 1412 age 21.

The question is, why did they not anticipate? Thirty-four percent of older baby boomers said they did not understand the process, while 39% reported not having money to invest in their future.

While many baby boomers may have done well in preparing for retirement, circumstances sometimes intervene. Half of those who retire will not retire by choice. Instead, conditions such as disability, death of a parent, downsizing or closure of a plant get them to end their careers earlier than expected.

The disturbance interferes with plans for continuing contributions to their nest egg and lengthens the amount of time they spend in retirement, based on what they have accumulated.

in some cases, the baby boomers have also delayed having children, leaving them nearing retirement that their offspring are completing college.

The main issue in retirement planning is procrastination, with many baby boomers not address their concerns until they reach their 50s, and then it may be too late achieve their goals forcing them to make difficult decisions: "Do we reduce the size of our house, postpone retirement, part-time work during retirement or to try to live with less?

false common potential retirees arise ideas discuss their plans. Most people underestimate what they need or what they want to live in retirement. There are costs for basic needs continue to increase, even when they retire -. Gas, food, taxes, insurance, and this causes a surprise when they realize how much they will have to supplement what Social Security provides retirement

it is never too late to start planning, but if you wait too long to start, it may be too late to achieve your goals.

I recently participated in a meeting with senior executives from some of the largest life insurance companies country. The subject of the meeting was the crisis of 95 million Americans uninsured adults and the lack of awareness and concern by those adults about the need for life insurance.

The question is, Why do we have this problem? Part of the reason is the loss of employment due to the weak economy, but it is not the main reason. The main reason is the new standard of what consumers deem reasonable and appropriate for their lifestyle.

Young people are waiting longer to get married and start a family, so the perception is that there is no need life insurance protection in their 20s or early 30s. Cell phones, cable television and the Internet have become necessities and are no longer a luxury.

I recently had a discussion with a young lawyer who said he had just spent his cable, Internet and phone handset business package for $ 500 per month. That is $ 6,000 per year, a few years ago, and would have been allocated to savings and protection planning. If the prosecutor has an income of $ 75,000, this package is 8% of its gross income.

His concern is that it does not have enough net income to pay for a life insurance, especially since it does not expect to die anytime soon.

Life insurance may not be a financial priority now, but what happens to people who depend on him if he is here to provide the income they need to maintain their lifestyle or simply pay for basic necessities? It is a matter of personal financial responsibility to plan and plan early, when life happens, because when he does, it's too late to get the coverage you need. You can start here.

As a parent, you take your role as primary educators of your children seriously. You learned brush their teeth, do their homework and go to bed on time but with less success on a given day. But what you have learned about money?

You might think that tweens and teens are too young to learn about dollars and cents, that a lot of time for them to learn financial responsibility. But the following statistics on the Washington State Department of Financial Institutions website might change their minds:

• People in the age 18 to 24 spend nearly 30% of their monthly income just on debt repayment. (10% of net income is a recommended amount for a debt).
• US children, adolescents and young adults (ages 8-21) earned about $ 211 billion in 03 and rose to a rate of about $ 172 billion per year.
• average of 21 years in the United States will spend more than $ 2.2 million during his life.

they get it, they spend it and as far too many cases, exceed the amount they spend the amount they have. According to 05 figures Jump $ tart Coalition, 45% of students are in credit card debt, with an average of over $ 3,000. The Richmond program abuse of credit Resistant Education (CARE) noted that the number of 18 to 24 declaring bankruptcy has increased 96% in 10 years.

Where this future generation of debt ridden learn better money management and financial planning habits? Perhaps in school, although all 38 states have standards or guidelines of personal finances, only seven require students to take a personal finance course to graduate, according to the National Council of information on economic education.

The bullet money is back in the court of the parent, but help is available from your insurance advisor, financial planner and organizations such as LIFE. Here are some suggestions to start talking money with your children.

Share your sessions. make them part of your planning session with your professional financial adviser or insurance. A discussion of the different types of insurance and their role is critical, especially since statistics showed that although 70% of American adults say they personally need more life insurance, only 36% have a policy that they bought themselves, according to the Next Generation financial literacy Program of the lIFE LIMRA and life insurance Barometer 2011 study and person-level LIMRA Trends in life insurance of US study Property 2011.

Make it a play. (with materials available on DVD and online), were originally designed as a tool for educators to use in the classroom to cover the basics of risk management and financial planning, as well as life insurance, health and disability. But parents and children can learn many NextGen3, taking quizzes, playing the interactive game of Risk or get a history lesson on the concept of "pooling of risks."