Guaranty Association Benefits Company

At age 19, I lost my mother to cancer. Because she had no life insurance, I experienced many financial difficulties and found myself in desperate need of college funding.

This is when I came across the life lessons fellowship program and applied. From the moment I received the scholarship $ 7.500 last year, my life had come full circle, and I was sent to a flawless trip I never thought possible.

I did not understand the importance of life insurance until I lost my mother. This whole trip made me realize how much life insurance is, my life would surely have turned life insurance differently had there been.

Part of the scholarship application process is to tell your story, how your life was affected because your parent had little or no life insurance. Before, my story was very difficult. Winning the award allowed me to broaden this perspective. Now, my story is fun because I know it will help other families avoid what happened to mine.

In addition to the video that shows my story, I am invited to speak to a wide audience nationally and internationally. This experience has also opened doors for me career-wise as well, for me too, became part of the life insurance industry by becoming a motivational speaker and landing an internship with New York Life.

My experience with life lessons Scholarship Program was the best thing that could ever happen to me. Sometimes we just need someone to believe in us, and the rest will take its course. I am able to go to school with peace of mind, I began to pick up the pieces of my life.

I encourage others who are in my situation to ask for one of these scholarships. If you have lost a parent who had little or no life insurance and you need financial assistance to get a college education, be sure to click this link and complete the request form, you can do it either in writing or by video. It took me three tries to apply before I received the scholarship, so keep it!

Keep in mind that wherever your life takes you, it's your experiences that make the stories of your life. Opportunity is different for everyone, but we all have to start somewhere. I understand the difficulty to share your loss history; but believe me when I say that there is nothing more rewarding than the time you realize your life is about to change.

Although the US economy as a whole has the Great Recession, Millennials (those born from the early 1980s until early 00s) are still struggling with student debt and slow growth of employment. The sluggish economy and student debt are not the only things that keep Millennials to achieve financial independence and success.

Let's take a look at five millennium money mistakes tend to do and how we can fix them.

1. Avoid a budget.

One of the most basic mistakes, not from the budget may lead to live beyond your means. This puts pressure on your plans and future financial goals, even if you have a good eye for things like groceries or car insurance typically cost. Do the math and find out if you break even or be able to save more each month is crucial to building a buffer against the debt. It can be as easy as starting to use a new budgeting tool online or mobile. You do not even need to leave your desk.

2. Abusing credit cards.

According to a study by the credit reporting agency Experian, Millennials have a hard time paying credit card bills, while having one of the highest rates of the four listed credit utilization generations. The use of credit, also known as the debt-to-credit ratio is the ratio or rate of your balance (what you owe) from your overall credit limit.

From the study, the Millennium average rate is 37%, which is above 35% or less that creditors prefer. Following these payments two late-factors and high-use credit Millennials have the lowest credit scores in four generations. Consider a credit score as a financial report card, which means you have to turn all the time and pay the balance in full each month.

3. Location forever.

There is no secret that Millennials are not active buyers. Homeownership is important to consider because ultimately it costs more to rent a home than to buy one in many areas. Moreover, Millennials do not build equity while renting indefinitely. Of course, many Millennials are still traveling and exploring no plans to settle down yet, but if a reasonable agreement on the property back on the road, it would be wise to consider buying.

4. Registration little to nothing for retirement.

Surprisingly, two out of three Millennium intends to retire at 65, but about 70% have not started saving for retirement, according to a 2013 survey by MainStreet.com and GfK Roper public Affairs & Corporate Communications. Even more worrying is that half of all Millennials expect to make money from social security, even if full payment reserves are to cease in 2033.

The journey to retirement starts with a payment unique, then another. If you are lucky to have 401 (k) plan corresponding to the employer, to take full advantage of it and make above average contributions. Alternatively, build your own IRA, choosing a Roth IRA or traditional, and set aside a percentage of your monthly income towards it.

5. Life insurance jump.

Get insurance in general can seem daunting, but it is good to examine the different types, even those you do not think you need to first . Life insurance is one that may not have yet found, but there are reasons to consider it.

One of the advantages of getting a life insurance policy early is that it will probably cost you less now than later-life insurance is highest younger and healthier that you are. In addition, you do not know if your health could change, which could make the cover to get much more expensive, if not impossible, later. And remember that the co-signatories on the financial accounts you may have responsible for your debts should you get nothing.

From the basic act of budgeting to consider life insurance, these actions can help ground your financial future. Registration for later in life is the foundation to have a life without debt and securing pension plans. In Millennial you can always find your way in this economy, but you can help prevent one of these five financial mistakes to add to your burdens.

I received this from a page of permanent life insurance description entitled "Just a life insurance policy." The original author is unknown, but it appeared the style and wording have been written some time ago, but it is still relevant today. I wanted to share with you.

I aM a LIFE INSURANCE POLICY

I am a piece of paper, a drop of ink and a few cents premium.

I promise to pay.

I help people of visions, dreams, and achieve economic immortality.

I education for children.

I am saving.

I am the property that increases in value from year year.

I lend money when you need it, no questions asked.

I pay the mortgage, so that the family can stay together in their own homes.

I assure you people dare to live and the moral right to die.

I create money where none existed before.

I am the great emancipator of need.

I guarantee business continuity.

I retain the investment.

I am the employer tangible proof that man is a good husband and father, and a woman a good wife and mother.

I'm a declaration of financial independence and economic freedom.

I am the difference between an old man or woman and an elderly man or lady.

I give money if the illness, injury, old age or death cuts off the breadwinner's income.

I'm the only thing you can buy on the installment plan that your family does not have to end up paying for.

I am protected by laws that prevent creditors to assess the money I give to your loved ones.

I bring dignity, peace of mind and security for your family.

I provide investment capital that drives the wheels and motors hum.

I guarantee the financial ability to have a happy holiday and the laughter of children -... even if the parent is not there

I am the guardian angel home

I'm the life insurance

When you get a raise at work, you feel not only great because your job performance has not passed unnoticed, but you also get a better sense of job security. Of course, this also means more money in your pocket, which can lead to irresponsible spending instead of taking personal accountability and invest in your future. What you need to focus on is creating good spending habits immediately.

First of all, you need to prioritize. Ask yourself if these key items you've been meaning to buy are really important. Go ahead and revel in your success conservative, but plan what you need to do before you want to make extra money.

Here are some simple tips on what to do when you get a raise at work.

1. Sit on it for a bit.

Before you begin making new purchases, take some time getting used to the dynamics of your biggest salary. One thing you will notice is that you get more taxed. The more money you make, the more money the IRS will take. For example, the sister of my friend got a raise from $ 10,000 last year, but his paycheck every two weeks only increased by $ 0. So wait and see how this new increase, you actually get to the house before making decisions.

2. Pay off debt.

Do you have credit card debt or student loans? If you have one, high-interest debt, accelerate your payments. Start with the highest interest debt and pay it first, or consider a balance transfer promotion at 0% APR, however, does not mean delay saving for retirement, so remember to always contribute to your 401 (k) and individual retirement account.

Without debt, you will be able to save more money. Not only will you improve your credit score, which can save you thousands in interest payments when buying a house or a car, but you'll also reduce stress, improve your physical health and feel a great sense pride. All this will motivate you to continue to spend responsibly.

3. Adjust your retirement plans.

After reviewing your debt and liabilities, it is time to take your pension plan. If you have more disposable income, you can start maxing out your retirement, especially if your employer offers a 401 (k) matching. By contributing to your retirement, you can not have extra money left for the newest iPhone or a big screen TV, but you will win the future financial security.

4. Review your insurance policies.

Have you all the basics of estate planning? Do you own a life insurance and disability insurance? If not, you are well informed about all the different types of life insurance available beyond any traditional term, whole or universal policies? Re-evaluate your insurance needs to determine if your current policies adequately cover your family's important when you experience a significant increase in revenues.

5. Except for the tax season.

If you are really looking forward to this tax refund, remember that the more you do, the more you are taxed. Having a higher income means that you can be in a new tax bracket and ineligible to take the credits and deductions you are accustomed.

6. Celebrate your success-frugally.

The journey to financial independence does not mean you have to deny yourself anything beyond the absolute necessities of life. Life is a marathon and constant hard work can lead to burnout. An evening of fun can go a long way towards keeping your sanity.

What is important is doing it in moderation. Buying a new gadget or vacation planning should depend on the size of your recovery and you have the budget for.

In short

Congratulations on your recovery! You clearly did a good job and should be proud of you. Celebrate modestly then get back to work for a better future for you and your family.

Have you had a big raise at work lately? Let us know what you have done with the extra money in your paycheck. fun and exciting stories are welcome too!

Substantial changes in the retirement age and lifestyle are on the horizon for us , according to Northwestern Mutual 2014 planning Study and progress. People expect to work longer, but a significant number will be by choice rather than necessity. Other and there are many of them-aren't so lucky and do not feel they have the luxury of choice

For retirees :.

• The average age of retirement was 59
• The vast majority (72%) say they are completely removed from work

for those still working:

• the average age they expect to work up is 68 (almost a decade longer than retirees study)
• almost half (45%) say they will continue working in retirement, not because they have to but because they want
• a considerable number of other people who are still working are either uncertain when they retire, or know they do not have much choice
• one in five (21%) do not know how many years he or she will spend in retirement
• More than one in 10 (13%) think they will never be able to retire
• Nearly four in 10 (38% ) aged 60 and over believe they will have to work until 75 years or more before you can withdraw

the research also found a gap between expectations and experience. Only 37% of adult workers expect they will be happier in retirement than they are now. But 84% of current retirees say they are happy in retirement, and 60% say they are happier now than they were when they were working.

Seventy percent of retirees describe their lives as "fulfillment", and a focus most on health and fitness and staying active with charities. But half of retirees saw health spending increase significantly in retirement, and among them 45% do not anticipate these expenses.

This highlights the need for planning. In findings published earlier by Northwestern Mutual, the study found a link between the discipline of an individual brings to financial planning and happiness in retirement. Retirees who consider themselves planners "very disciplined" are much more likely than non-planners say they are happy to retire (91% against 63%).

The study found a link between the discipline of an individual brings to financial planning and happiness in retirement.

Americans must take the first step to getting a handle on retirement talking to someone about their concerns. The study found that 42% of adults have never had a conversation with someone in retirement.

Research shows that retirees focus less on numbers and more on the quality of life, but quality of life needs capital to minimize financial concerns. It is possible that retirement may not be exactly what you imagined, but if you have a plan and you follow this plan, there is a good chance that your retirement will be a happy and rewarding time of your life.

Although we hope you read our blog posts every week, we know that in a busy world occurs not always, here are a few of our most popular posts this year. Take a look:

Top secret

Can anyone buy a secret life insurance policy on you? The answer is maybe, but probably not, as "it has become common practice to give a person the tracking phone call provided by the insurer or agent to verify the authenticity of the application and to validate both his income and the need to buy special insurance policy. "For when it might be possible Click here .

Millennium

2-3 Millennium intends to retire at 65, but about 70% have not started saving for retirement.

It seems that Millennials are poking their heads out of the proverbial sand to get their finances in order and to check if get a life insurance meaning. Top messages include:

5 financial mistakes millennium mark and 6 Millennium reasons should consider life insurance

What's love got to do with it

.? Well love and life insurance are actually very closely related. And it shows how blog posts: Life insurance: A love letter ..

Enjoy our wrap and let us know if you think they are top positions as well

Losing a child leaves a hole in your heart that can never be filled.

My daughter, Summer, was all you could want in a relaxed stepdaughter, fun and very intelligent. I was so proud of what she was doing on her own only 22. She was working full time as a waitress and going to school full-time for premed studies.

She was also pregnant with her first child, and was smart enough to realize that she needed life insurance to protect her family to be.

I our insurance agent, Christie, to thank for that. When Christie learned that summer was going to be a mom, she made sure to let Summer know how life insurance was, especially for a single mother.

I told Summer to hold off on getting the politics because I was worried about her make ends meet each month. But Christie was right. She understood that, although the odds were against everything that happens in the summer at a young age, you never enough, never know. So Christie has helped her to get a policy that, for only $ 12 a month would protect her new baby.

Unfortunately my daughter was hit and killed by a car while walking. His son, Nathan, was only 9 months old at the time.

The money from the summer life insurance policy allowed me to give my daughter a beautiful funeral to make it a party. There would have been no way for me to do this for herself.

The money helped me to take leave after the summer is dead so I could take care of Nathan. This money allowed me to maintain dignity while allowing me the time to cry.

He also paid for the adoption process as well. My husband and I have officially adopted Nathan in May 2013. I've put the remaining money from the policy of the summer aside for the education of Nathan. It is now 6 and prosperous!

It is still difficult for me to share this story, but I think it's very important to let other young people know that there is no promise of tomorrow, and you need to prepare for what life insurance. Please do not expect

(Editor's Note: You can watch their story here).

Contrary to popular belief, long term care insurance are not nursing home insurance. Think of it this way, if you have a chronic illness or become disabled and can no longer take care of you for a long period of time, you will need long term care services. care insurance long term can help you pay for the care you need in the setting you prefer, for example, as your home. Here are some tips to get coverage:

1. Buy with your spouse or partner. Long Term Care Insurance companies offer discounts to couples who are married or living together. You could save up to 30% if you apply with your partner. Most carriers will always give a partial rebate even if only one of you is approved. The discount applies to married couples and domestic partners.

2. Consider shared care. A useful feature of long-term care insurance policies is shared care. This is an additional feature that you can purchase that allows a couple to share the benefits of each policy. For example, Mr. and Mrs. Smith each purchase of $ 0,000 in benefits. Mr. Smith became ill and uses its $ 0,000. Ms. Smith's policy is intact. Because they shared the care, it can draw on its benefits for additional coverage. Shared care can be valuable for any couple, but especially in cases where there is a big age difference.

3. Watching inflation hedge. Inflation coverage is added a rider to a policy that helps the amount of the benefit follow inflation. This is necessary because the amount of coverage you buy today may not be enough to cover your care when you're in your 80s, the average age of people who file claims. But inflation hedge can double the cost of your policy, it is important to choose wisely. A counselor who specializes care insurance in the long term can guide you through the various options that are available.

4. Buy before your birthday. You'll save money if you buy before your next birthday because of long-term care insurance rates are based on age. Another reason to avoid putting it off is if you wait too long, your health could decline and you may not be eligible for insurance.

5. Ask about any tax as possible delisting. long-term care insurance premiums are tax deductible if you own a business or have high health care costs. If you have a part-time business, such as tutoring, you may be able to receive radiation. Consult your tax advisor.

6. Know what looks like a medium shot. If you are like most consumers, you can be sure of how much coverage to buy. An average plan can provide $ 5,000 per month in benefits to a maximum of $ 180,000. An elderly couple aged 55 could pay $ 185 per month for their coverage. Your needs may be different and a counselor can help design a plan based on your personal situation.

7. Consult an expert. Most insurance agents sell very little long-term care insurance. They often do not have the expertise in this product to help you modify it to meet your needs. Once you have done your research, you'll want to work with a specialist in long-term care that customize a plan for you.

Did you know that ...

At least 70% of people over 65 need care services long term and support to some. point in their lives
(Source: 2015 Medicare & You, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services)

Approximately 68% of residents in nursing home and 72% of assisted residents are women
( . Source: long-term US care: 2013 Overview, National health Statistics Center)

national median daily rate in 2014 for a private room in a house nursing was $ 240, an increase of 4.35% from 2013.
(Source: 2014 Survey Genworth Cost of care, March 2014)

the average length of a stay in the nursing home is 835 days or more than two years. But I had many parents, both with alzhiemers, who were in homes for five years
(Source: Centers for Nursing Home Care FastStats Disease Control and Prevention, last updated in May 2014).

During a median daily rate of $ 240, an average stay of 835 days of nursing home now costs over $ 0,000, making it virtually unaffordable for many Americans. (The average hotel room is only $ 121 / day!)

Medicare does not pay for long term care, as explained by the administration of social security: "Social Security payroll retirement, disability, family and survivors. Medicare, a separate program administered by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, helps pay for inpatient hospital care, nursing, physician fees, drugs and other medical services and supplies to the people of 65 and over and to persons who have received social security disability benefits for two years or more. Medicare does not pay for long term care , so you may want to consider options for private insurance (emphasis added). "

Without proper planning, a serious accident or illness could deprive you of your financial independence. Whether bought for yourself, your spouse or elderly parent care insurance long term may help to protect assets accumulated over a lifetime against the ravages of the costs of long term care.

When I was only 16, my father died after a short illness. My parents never bought life insurance, so that the only help we received was from the Department of Veterans Affairs, since my father was a disabled veteran. I think we got about $ 00. the cost of the funeral of my father at least double that of the figure.

My mother was now struggling with pain, debt and an uncertain future. I looked at his hand-wringing about how she would pay for the funeral. She did not know if she could provide for my sister and me. She admitted freely that we probably would not be able to keep our house. My sister was in college and my mother did not know if my sister would be able to stay there. My own academic career was in deep danger.

My mother did not know if she could provide for my sister and me. She admitted freely that we probably would not be able to keep our house.

My mother worked full time, but she had to take an extra job to make ends meet-one who called her out all hours of the night, seven days a week. She eventually rented the house and moved with the family to reduce costs. But it also quietly consolidating his life insurance policy.

When she died seven years after the death of my father, my sister and I had enough money to cover the funeral, taking care of urgent bills and then some. I finally used my hand for a down payment on a house almost straight out of college. My sister hers away in retirement accounts. The contrast of my parents was a lesson for me the importance of life insurance.

Life insurance is smart
A recent State Farm survey shows that a large majority of Americans (84%) believe that life insurance is a way smart to take care of the future of their families, but we do not follow through the important conversations are necessary: ​​42% of respondents living with parents avoided having estate planning conversations. That's a marked contrast!

Understand that life insurance is important is not difficult. If you are the main breadwinner, you have probably thought about what would happen if you were suddenly gone. Perhaps he has even crossed your mind how long illness (and many medical bills) would have an impact on your family. Or maybe your family reflects my parents :. Two working parents and two paychecks were needed to cover the necessary bills

Do not turn the conversation
Although we Americans recognize the importance of life insurance, if you are like my husband, you do not like talking about life insurance because it seems morbid or depressing.

Yet the same poll shows that when people make the decision to buy life insurance, they really positive feelings that most often negative feelings about. Purchase leaves them with feelings as "protected" (36%), "confident" (22%) and even "relieved" (21%). If you have not yet had a conversation with your family about purchasing life insurance, there is no time like the present

(Illustration: State Farm).

Action

You can begin by assessing the needs of this life insurance needs calculator. Then set up a time to talk with your spouse or your parents (perhaps both). Addressing concerns that each party, but try to get out of the conversation with a timetable for the purchase of a policy.

When I'm 22, I moved to New York City. I had just graduated from college and my parents agreed to support my first months as I plunged headlong into the theater. For Thanksgiving, I started to have a foot and had some exciting concerts lined up for the end of the year. Then I get a phone call, I will never forget.

"gone, Daddy" my mother said. I could hear the pain, love, shock and uncertainty in his voice. I could not believe it. How could my father, to 49, disappeared? Suddenly I felt the deep permanence of death. I could not call the most. I could not ask his advice. I could not give her a hug when I was flying home for Christmas. My family had a huge hole, dad fit.

As I packed that night to steal home, I could not help thinking my time in New York was up. Admittedly, I have to move the house to make sure my brother stayed in college and my mother has not lost her home. After all, my father was the primary breadwinner. Without his income, I knew we would have problems.

Pots are not going to put a check in the mailbox for the next mortgage payment.

When I landed in Denver, I experienced the incredible support from family and friends. We did not have to cook for weeks and relied heavily on their orientation while walking in the early days of shock and grief. Yet the question of how my mother was going to weigh heavily on me. Pots are not going to put a check in the mailbox for the next mortgage payment.

My father had a plan

Fortunately, my father had a plan. His love for my mother, my brother and I became apparent in new ways that we came to political will and two life insurance out of the file cabinet. He gave us the space to mourn and deal by making an insurance company on the hook for college, mortgage, retirement and even my mother. Losing my father did not have to say all lose.

Unfortunately, millions of Americans are totally unprepared for the loss, the loss in permanent particular. Because we have learned to find the cheapest insurance possible and conditioned to buy only what the government mandates, we go through life betting that our friends and family will understand how to "make it work." While I firmly believe in human ingenuity, I have difficulty accepting the fact that Americans often InSure their cars and homes for the full replacement value, while leaving relatives to understand when they die.

Does your family must "make it work? "Or, you express your love for them by ensuring your ability to provide a home, vacation, college and space with life insurance?

in the last two months, I have read at least five stories of families walking through the tragedy, I know too well. In each situation, the loving friends given and shared a crowdfunding website to help cover the cost of final expenditure :. $ 5,000 here, $ 10,000 there

Although this is a lot of money, it is far from enough. If a 35 year old dies making only $ 30,000 a year, her family would suffer a loss of more than $ 1.4 million, adjusted for inflation each year to 3%. College, holidays, weddings, gifts, groceries, cars, houses and space to mourn disappear when the "run" the plan takes effect.

What is your plan? An insurance professional can help you navigate your protection strategy. Does your family must "run?" Or, as my father, you express your love for them otherwise ensuring your ability to provide a home, vacation, college and space with the life insurance?

"It's too expensive!" Is the common refrain when Americans are asked why they do not receive the life insurance protection they need. But, and it is a big but- 80% overestimate how much it costs .

For the fifth year, life happens in partnership with LIMRA study to produce the insurance barometer, which looks at consumer trends and "consumer perceptions of the life insurance, retirement and financial well-being.

"We have always seen over the past five years as consumers think life insurance is more expensive than it really is," says Marvin Feldman, CLU, CHFC, RFC, president and CEO of life happens. "We need to help educate the public about how affordable life insurance can be."

Other findings:

view the complete 2015 Insurance Barometer Study, go to www.lifehappens.org/barometer.

If you own a business, you know how it feels to live for this company. You rely on it also for you and your family in charge. So what would happen if you suddenly become ill or injured and could not work? You must think about the what-ifs.

The fact is, your relatives may not have the skills or desire to run the business, and your co-owners may not welcome the idea of ​​an involuntary partner. Also, imagine the scenario where there is one of your co-owners who becomes permanently disabled and you, Aore face these choices.

That, AOS where a buy-sell disability plane comes in to play. This is an agreement between the owners buying a co-owner share, AOS of the company in case of permanent disability. Here are four options for the financing of this agreement:

1. Method of cash. The company or its owners could accumulate enough cash to buy the interests of the business owner to a disability, OSA. Unfortunately, it could take many years to save the necessary funds, while the total amount may be necessary in a few months or years.

2. Payments on current compensation method. The purchase price may be paid in installments after owner disability, OSA. For the remaining assets owners, it could mean a drain on business income for years. In addition, payments to disabled owner would depend on the future performance of the company after the owner, AOS disability.

Only disability insurance buy-out can guarantee that the money will be available exactly when needed

3. Method loan. Assuming that the company could get a business loan after owner disability, AOS, via the purchase price requires that the future business income be used to repay the loan and interest

. 4. Method insured. Only the disability buy-out insurance can ensure that the money necessary to make the sale, either a lump sum or installment purchase, will be available exactly when needed, assuming that the company has been assessed precisely.

for many companies, the best solution to the problems arising from the permanent disability of an owner is using the product of the buy-out disability insurance to buy from owner, AOS disabled of the company to its fair market value.

You can learn more about the protection of all aspects of your business with these helpful tips.

One of the many reasons Americans have no life insurance is that they believe that they will not qualify, or that if they do qualify, the price will be too expensive. It's not always the case.

Many people are able to find affordable coverage despite common health conditions. the life insurance companies determine rates depending on the severity of the condition and whether it is currently being processed or not. With the help of a doctor, a condition can be managed so that it has minimal impact on life insurance rates.

The life insurance companies against risks by giving customers a healthy note. In general, three notes are more standard, preferred and preferred. In general, there may be a change from 20% to 30% of a note to another, according to the company. Examples of common health conditions and how life insurance companies can meet

Hypertension :. High blood pressure, or hypertension, can lead to serious health problems if left unmanaged. Life Insurance companies will determine the rate class of customer depending on the severity of the condition and if managed with medication or not. Generally, a person with 150/0 or less with drugs can qualify for standard rates. A preferred rate would likely be someone with 140/0 or less without medication

high cholesterol. More than 102 million Americans over 20 have high cholesterol. This is defined as the total cholesterol level of 0 mg / dl. life insurance companies may classify you as a regular with cholesterol does not exceed 300-350 mg / dL. Less than 250 mg / dL may qualify for preferential rates, while 220 mg / dL or less with drugs can put you in the preferred class

Anxiety :. 18% of the American population suffers from anxiety, making it the most common form of mental illness. Life insurance companies consider as a risk because it can lead to other health problems such as depression, addiction and insomnia. Candidates with anxiety that are managed on a drug prescribed by a primary care physician can usually qualify for the preferred class and health

Obesity :. With over 33% of Americans are affected by obesity, it is one of the most common health conditions that life insurance companies treat. Most companies use the body mass index number (BMI) to determine if the rate class of an applicant. Usually a person with a BMI of 26-28 can qualify for preferred and, while a BMI of 27-34 may be preferred, and 35-38 or more will be standard

acid reflux :. with nearly 19 million Americans diagnosed with acid reflux (GERD), it ranks as one of the most common health conditions. As it can lead to ulcers and possibly cancer, life insurance companies consider it a risk. The good news is that most people who treat their mild GERD with over the counter medications can qualify for the rates of most preferred. Those taking prescriptions for mild to moderate GERD can qualify for preferred, and moderate to severe GERD with ongoing treatment or surgery would qualify for standard rates.

Do not let fear high prices keep you from getting life insurance coverage you need. Millions of people suffer from these common health conditions, and many of them could qualify for a preferred class or more preferred rate. Remember that many of these conditions can be improved with the help of a doctor, medication, diet and exercise.

Do not worry if you missed the first time. Here are the top 3 blog posts so far this year. Check them out:

The # 1 Reason People do not buy life insurance
And just know that 80% of people are wrong when it comes to their reason not to buy ... click to read. Moves

7 Smart Financial for New (and experienced) Parents
Parenthood brings a host of new responsibilities, including financial. Time to check these on your list ... click to read.

5 things you did not know life insurance could do
When you think about life insurance, which usually comes to mind is the provision death, and that is certainly the main reason most people life insurance. It can also do these 5 things ... click to read.

And make sure to tell us what you think and if there is a future topic that you would like in the comments section.

Sam McNeely, a former football player, dominating everyone who came in contact with him. But its size belied a soft side he was quick with a joke and able to befriend someone with his casual ways. That's what made Amy fall in love with him.

Less than a year to get married, they discovered they were going to be parents. That's when they met the cousin and professional insurance Juli McNeely Sam, CFP, CLU, LUTCF. Amy understood from the beginning that the protection of their growing family with life insurance was paramount.

While Sam had life insurance through work, Amy convinced him to buy an individual policy, which would give it sufficient coverage and would not disappear if he changed jobs. Amy got a blanket as well. His reason was simple: "I did not want to leave with a child and struggle with work and find someone to take care of it"

A few years later, Amy was walking them. daughter, Charli, to school when his phone rang. the call was the beginning of a life-changing morning that ended with Sam to the hospital with an aortic dissection. Shortly after his arrival, he would claim his life. He was just 38.

Amy has few memories of the days and weeks that followed. Meanwhile, it relied heavily on Juli, who invested the proceeds of the life insurance Sam to ensure that Amy would have a steady stream of income for years to come. It has allowed Amy to be there for Charli, instead of having to work full time and find people to take care of his

His advice to other parents is simple :. "people think life insurance is super cheap, but it is not. For the amount of coverage that we had, it was quite cheap and it was worth it. It's made my sisters and friends reconsider their needs. People my age do not think they will die, but it happens. "

If you have not already, click on the video above to watch the story of McNeely. And to understand more about life insurance and see if some thing you need, start here.

Most of my childhood consisted of hospital rooms waiting, bad cafeteria food and the names of doctors, I could not not pronounce. I became involved in the disease inevitably my father at age 9, I gave shots and dosed medicine. Not the definition of "daddy's little girl" has other expected, but that was my childhood.

My father's illness took his life when I was 11, leaving behind his wife and five children. Soon after, we woke up to the bitter realization of our financial situation deteriorates. the burden that was placed on the shoulders of my mother is one that no one should have to carry it. If my father had had life insurance, it would have removed the constant financial worries.

now I am the only child in my family to have graduated from high school. and although the financial struggle to go to university to continue, and I will use my trials as stepping stones and my education will be the basis on which I build my life.

I wish I could say more, but I can not form an sentence that expresses how my family would have benefited from life insurance. Although setbacks hit me when I'm down, I found that the real failure is when I stop trying. I refused to give up then, and I refuse to give up now

Editor's Note :. Kira Olsen received Life Lessons scholarship life happens to help students experiencing financial difficulties to get an education because of a dying parent with little or no life insurance. To start planning your own, start www.lifehappens.org/LI.

One thing that makes critical illness insurance is unique because it was not created by an insurance company, but by a heart surgeon world-renowned Dr. Marius Barnard. It was part of the team, led by his brother, Christian Barnard, who performed the first human heart transplant with the success.

Dr. Barnard has practiced medicine in South Africa, and saw that, with the changes taking place in medicine, when a serious illness struck, he was able to cure his patient physically but the financial stress that accompanies cancer, heart attack and stroke was killing his patients.

Dr. Barnard saw that the financial strain that accompanies cancer, heart attack and stroke was killing his patients.

His thought was that protection against serious diseases could function similarly to a life insurance policy and pay a lump sum upon diagnosis of serious illness. Critical illness insurance was introduced in South Africa in 1983, and is now sold in over 60 countries worldwide.

You're probably wondering, "Why now Medicare criticism? Why have I not heard more about it before? "The reason is that with great doctors and incredible advances in medicine and medical technology, today people survive cancer, heart attacks, strokes, etc., which killed us there is generation.

for example, a good friend of mine, Keith, has a client who is 38 years old. The customer Keith was running on a treadmill in a gym when he suffered a heart attack. Twelve people called 911. the woman on the treadmill next to him walked over, grabbed the defibrillator from the wall, and applied.

Think about it. If it customer had a heart attack 15 years ago, the number of gyms would have defibrillators? How many other people in the gym would have had cell phones to dial 911 for paramedics he immediately?

same question, different answer

the question is, what is the insurance product for cancer, heart attack or stroke? When I started in the insurance industry 35 years ago, the answer to this question was life insurance. At that time, very few people have survived a serious illness.

This reminds me of the story of Albert Einstein. His teaching assistant came into his office, panicked. The assistant said, "Professor Einstein, questions about the exam this year are the same as last year!"

Einstein replied: "No problem, because the answers are different"

Consumers still want to know what the right insurance product to protect against serious diseases such. as cancer, heart attack and stroke. the question is the same, but the response has changed. a person still need life insurance, but he or she also needs critical illness insurance

to quote Dr. Barnard :. "you need protection against serious diseases, not because you are going to die, but because you will survive."

The kiddie tax is a tax rule is levied on capital income (interest, dividends and capital gains) earned by children under 19 and students full time under 24. in 2016, the total income of the child's assets beyond $ 2,100 is taxed at the tax rate of the parent company.

in 2016, the only way that students under 24 years old will be able to avoid the kiddie tax is if they provide more than half of their own support their own earned income (ie . to wages and salaries, not the income from the sale of stocks) in this case, the child's unearned income would be based on the child's tax rates, not rates relatives under tax rules for children.

So, is there a way to avoid paying this tax? Yes, there are several ways, including using 529 plans and life insurance. Life insurance you say? Yes, and it works well.

Permanent life insurance allows you to store funds in the cash value of the policy, which accumulate tax deferred until they are withdrawn or borrowed to politics. The rate of return over 15 to 20 years may be better than others safe money market equivalents such as CDs and money markets and there is no taxation in progress.

Want to know more? Contact your agent or financial advisor for details.

Some people equate life insurance with tragedy and death. Truly, life insurance is for life. Without it, the sudden disappearance of a key breadwinner could leave a family stranded without the resources to maintain their lifestyle or even keep their homes.

There are not that long, professionals have recommended that families carry a life insurance policy with a death benefit of 10 times their annual household income. Today, however, in light of the rise in property prices in many parts of the country, escalating college costs and low interest rates most counselors now recommend up to 20 times your family income.

Unfortunately, most American families are underinsured. The gap between what households have and what they need is almost $ 320,000, according to the study by LIMRA Bridging the gap life insurance, 2015.

If you want an idea working how much life insurance you may need (or how much you may need), you can use our fast life insurance needs calculator.

A cornerstone of your financial plan
Life insurance is a cornerstone of your financial plan, for these reasons.

1. It provides a replacement income. For most people, their most valuable economic asset is their ability to earn a living. If you have dependents, then you must consider what would happen if they could not rely on your income. A life insurance policy can also help supplement retirement income, which can be especially useful if the benefits of your surviving spouse or domestic partner will be reduced after your death.

2. It covers long-term debts and obligations. Without life insurance, your family must bear the funeral expenses, credit card debts and medical expenses not covered by health insurance using money out of pocket. the death benefit of the policy could also be used to pay off a mortgage, supplement retirement savings, or a tuition fund college.

3. It can be used for estate planning. The proceeds of a life insurance policy can be assigned to pay estate taxes so that your heirs will not have to liquidate other assets to do so.

4. You can use it to support a charity of your choice. If you have a favorite charity, you can designate a portion or all of the proceeds of your life insurance to go to this organization.

Remember an agent or advisor can help you determine your life insurance needs and find something that works within your budget. If you do not have it, you can consult our agent locator.

Like many financial professionals, I want couples to be at the table financial planning together. But the reality is one of the spouses is often the driver for financial matters in the relationship. And often, time and timing challenges make it easier to rely on "catch-up conversations," which can not end up happening.

Talking about financial issues and what might happen if a loved one dies is difficult. But even more difficult is what could happen if you do not. A client of mine remembers asking her husband one night what to do if he is dead. "It was just a passing conversation. Like, 'Do I pay the mortgage?" She said. "We never sat down and had a great conversation. I knew we had life insurance, but I do not know what to do with it. "

When her husband died in 08, she was still not sure what to do.

" I realized too late that I am involved in planning "my client told me." you do not think it will happen when your husband is 49 ".

I see as part of my role to help change that. But couples should not expect a financial advisor to start doing the work. You can:

• Get the conversation takes the road and discuss what you want if the unfortunate were to happen
• Use free tools like Value Calculator life human LIFE Foundation. or their life insurance needs calculator to estimate of your needs.
• Stay cool on financial matters of the family by creating an action plan and meet monthly.

When everyone is informed, it can make a big difference during a very difficult time in anyone's life.

Peter Lewis, CHFC, owns the Lewis Group, a subsidiary of General Agency Life Insurance Company Massachusetts, Sapient Financial. You can contact him at peterlewis@finsvcs.com

We can spend a lot of ink in this blog correct misinformation that appears in the popular press about life insurance, why it is important and in need . So it is refreshing to be able to link to an article that provides high information load for navigation on a topic that may indeed be complex.

Christine Dugas and Sandra Block of USA Today wrote the article "To have life insurance? Is this enough or maybe too? "In which they highlight some of the common mistakes that people make when buying life insurance. The first mistake they make up is not bold, but can be one of the most important ". Too often, parents take a quick decision, ignoring important considerations "

Taking yourself about your life insurance needs is important and a good place to start your search for information quest is the non-profit site is the foundation of life. Browse the information as needed (but not too quiet!). Also take into account the errors that this article USA Today highlights such as not buying enough insurance-life, not the assurance of a parent at home and relying only on life insurance you get through work.

There is one area of ​​the . article that could have been exposed to a cited source said: "Some people buy life insurance for babies, which is useless, unless the baby is a child model who supports the family." There are other reasons to buy life insurance on a child that is not based on "gain an income." The blog "Gifts of a Lifetime" gives a very simple look why you might want to consider ensure a child.

that said, this article is to get people to think about their life insurance needs and take a measured approach to get it, which is a-OK in my book.

The Society of Actuaries (SOA) has published a survey showing that nearly half (48%) of Americans aged 45-70 have no financial plans in place to protect against outliving their assets and the rising cost of healthcare should they live longer than expected. Other results show that more than a third are worried about retirement money missing, but the plan only 20% for the purchase of an annuity or some other form of guaranteed income for life to protect their belongings. Many baby boomers find themselves prepared to maintain their retirement lifestyle. They see the potential problem, but take no action. The survey revealed that almost three quarters (71%) of respondents plan to claim Social Security before age 70 years

The SOA said he can not stress enough the importance of having a plan in place any special risks addresses may face in retirement, such as spending available assets too soon, meeting financial care needs, paying for the rising cost of care health and adjusting financially to the loss of a spouse.

SOA survey found that 75% of Americans ages 45-70 protect their tangible assets, such as their homes through home or renter's insurance; However, the plan 19% to ensure the extra costs of disability and welfare by purchasing long-term care insurance. These results reinforce my belief in the importance of working with professional agents and financial advisors who can guide people in their decision making. Many people are not aware of these problems until their agent or consultant educates their needs and affordable solutions to problems.

Act now while your health is good and the price tag for solving your planning problems is reasonable.

Wells Fargo recently released their sixth annual retirement survey, and according to this study, women still lag in saving for retirement. The survey focused on women of the middle class in their mid 20s to those who are already retired and in their 60s

• Just 54% of women said they are "confident" they will have enough saved to "live the life they want" in retirement, compared to 62% of men.
• Although both men and women are underfunded for retirement, women have saved less than men. The women also set their sights lower than men. When asked how they thought they would need to support themselves during retirement, women said they seek a median of $ 0,000, whereas men predict they will need savings retirement $ 400,000.
• Nearly 30% of women between the ages of 40 and 69 are "not sure or can not estimate" how much they will have to withdraw their retirement savings each year while in retirement, and about 32 % of women in their 40s and 50s feel they will remove 11% to 30% or more every year, not exactly a realistic number or viable on their life.
• In all age groups, women are much less likely to qualify as a financial decision maker "primary" than men (35% against 55% of men). Among married women, 83% say they are the joint financial decision maker, while 58% of married men say they are a joint decision maker.
• Only 27% of women have confidence in the stock market as a place for investment gains for their savings, against 40% of men. If given $ 5,000 to the instruction that it be "put away for your retirement," 40% of women say they buy bank CDs instead of putting money in the market, against 30% percent men.

According to Wells Fargo, women hold more than half of the high-paying management and professional positions in the US and three women are in college for two men. But when he comes to retirement, they lag in their confidence about how to prepare for this phase in life and are less likely to be in the driver's seat.

and these are only some of the why men and women should consider working with agents and professional advisors. Use the LIFE agent locator to find someone to help you.

Watching the news on the events unfolding in Japan was disturbing. The damage left by the earthquake in Japan, as well as images quite incredible tsunami of whole towns and villages literally sweep in an instant-these present events lasting mental pictures to me. Houses, cars and people also have literally been washed away in an instant. The damage and destruction will take years to clean up and rebuild. Some people may never recover.

Close your eyes for a moment and turn this mental image damage tsunami / earthquake in a picture of what happens to a family or a business when the breadwinner dies unexpectedly or becomes disabled . A family or a company sees the foundation of washing by sudden death or a persistent disability. Where stable ground once existed, now there is a gaping hole. The breadwinner is either "disappeared" or foundation of the family (income) is so damaged that the household and its contents now sitting on a very fragile layer of debt, tension and emotional and financial instability mounting.

He does not have to be that way.

Life insurance and disability insurance can magically and instantly help replace a washed financial basis or be "reinforcement" for the surviving family members and major trading partners. Money can certainly never solve emotional problems associated with premature death and disability, but it can buy time and stability for those left to deal with a foundation "washed".

The events in Japan remind me of the devastation the Americans have lived in our own country, such as the bombing of Pearl Harbor, 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina. My heart aches for Japanese citizens who are in a complete daze and whose dreams, futures and memories were literally washed away.

Although earthquakes and tsunamis can occur, often with catastrophic results, the scenario is much more probable sudden death or disability of a loved here. Make sure you have sufficient quantities of life and disability insurance so that you and your family will not risk your capital base is washed away.

(If you want to help the victims of this disaster, click here.)

I just finished judging over 40 of the nearly 1,500 total requests that the LIFE Foundation received this year from college age children requesting more than $ 100,000 scholarship fund.

Each year, LIFE is seeking applications for the scholarship program of its life lesson. The applicants submitted stories about how one or both parents have died without life insurance in place (or not enough life insurance).

The judgment is absolutely gut. Each story is unique and emotional, but they all contain basic components:

• broken families
• refused dreams
• inability to stay in the family home
• surviving parents who take more than one job to make ends meet
• siblings are often split up to live with the family
• on trust and good neighbors family to support
• realization that after the funeral is over, the lives of everyone continues
• sometimes there dependency and pain in other family members
• children having to work too early in life to help support their families
• missing children to "grow up" and normal school activities
• sudden changes in Plans
• relocation to other cities to be near the family
• grandparents, aunts and uncles being placed in positions they were not looking
• children, saying, "If my mom or dad had known the problem that it caused"
• realization that life will never be what they had hoped for and dreamed
• children saying "I will never leave my family is this type of situation."
• children, saying, "If only one agent had told my mom or dad into buying life insurance."
• the burden of long-term debt due loan origination students

He does not have to be that way. While life is glad to be able to give some of these deserving children an opportunity with financial support, it would be much better if there were no children who needed the help of LIFE .

The bottom line is that if you have someone who depends on you financially, and you have too little or no life insurance, you need to do something now. Not later. Now. You can start by knowing how much life insurance you may need with LIFE easy to use life insurance needs calculator.

You can also help these deserving children by making a donation to the scholarship fund life lessons here.

Disability insurance is a key element of the financial plan of an individual, and provides valuable coverage to guard against the risk of losing their income due to illness or injury.

Since a long-term disability can ruin the financial health of a person, it would be logical that everyone has coverage. However, less than a third of workers in the private sector have a long-term disability insurance through work, according to the US Department of Labor.

While those who do not have it through work (or enough of it) should be covering the risk of an individual disability insurance policy they buy themselves, many are disabled by the high price tag that often comes with it. Consequently, they put themselves in a dangerous position which could have serious financial consequences for them and their families.

There are alternatives to get coverage that do not involve buying an individual disability insurance policy. Disability income "rider" is an approach you can take to guard against the possibility of incurring a financial tragedy. These drivers are usually sold as an attachment to an individual life insurance plan.

Obtaining a life insurance policy with a disability rider is quite simple. First, since not all life insurance plans offer this feature, you'll need to find a company that does. After application of the cover, the process of life insurance underwriting is generally used as a starting point to determine whether or not you are eligible for additional disability insurance. In addition to life insurance issues, the company can get back to you with additional questions to screen you for the disability rider as well.

After the underwriting process is complete, you are usually either approved or denied coverage because there is usually no type of rating scale as it is with traditional life insurance . disability insurance riders are generally attractive because of the fact that they are cheaper than most individual disability policies. In addition, the insured can kill two birds with one stone instead of having two separate policies with different billing cycles

But please keep in mind this important fact :. The coverage of disability driver tends to be much more limited than it would be if you were to buy an individual disability insurance policy. Most life insurance companies that have these runners do offer benefits up to $ 3,000 per month, and coverage only lasts 2-3 years. Therefore, this type of policy is usually a great resource for disability insurance if you have not, but really does not protect against a prolonged disability situation.

William Rowan is the founder of eTermLifeInsurance .net, a website oriented term consumer education for life insurance and comparison. His only goal is for consumers to find the best life insurance policy for their individual situation .

I had lunch with one of my best friends yesterday. We discussed how quickly our children grow. He and his wife had just returned from attending the graduation of their eldest son. As he spoke to me of the pleasure of the graduation process and selfishness that is so apparent in young, he laughed and shared a cute story ...

When their son was only 2 years, my boyfriend was himself also to correct most 2 years must be addressed. My friend had told her son several times to stop doing something that was dangerous. Having said four or five times, the boy quietly went to his dad put his young hands on each side of Dad's face and said with all the sincerity he could muster, "Dad, you do not know? My do what mY will! "

this story was told time and time to the family of my friend. While they raised two more children, the story served as a constant reminder that while kids may think the world revolves around them and allows them to do whatever they want, we as parents and adults do not really know what is best for our children and our family ...

it gives me this visual image of my own family, or for that matter, the whole family grow together :. parents struggling to raise children the right way and children struggling to understand why mom and dad have to make difficult decisions, but looking at the way the mother and working hard daddy predict and feed their families . It's not until children are much older than they really understand the sacrifices and selflessness that parents must invest to keep the family safe and on the road to maturity.

A key element of this sacrifice is financial security. I'm not going on my soap box, but as you have this mental image in your mind of your family, or for that matter, the whole family, a pause for a minute to consider what happens if mom or dad should die while the children are young. Happiness and financial security become much less certain. The remaining parent has to double the effort of the family with little time to themselves to grieve and mourn the loss of a spouse.

Life insurance, if purchased before, can not help with the emotional side of the loss, but you can help to ensure security, peace of mind, time to adjust and that funds for education, housing and other expenses related to the loss of income of the deceased parent

Think of this way. If parents were to take the same approach selfish "MY do what I want," the family unit would be much less stable. Fortunately, many parents take this decision ... life insurance just in case.

Have you?

According to Lincoln Financial Group study, the ratio 10 times income assets is a guide that can help people determine how they can be better prepared retired. In other words, if you earn $ 100,000 per year, you need a $ million in assets to retire comfortably. Understand that this is a guide, not a definitive report.

This seems too low for me, as a withdrawal rate of 10% with a long-term compensation rate of 5% over the $ 1,000,000 will last 15 years. Either you need more assets, a lower withdrawal rate or a higher rate of return. Maybe you'll need a combination of three to last 30 years or more, you can expect to live in retirement.

For example, if you reduce the down 6% with a conservative long-term rate of 4% return, $ 1,000,000 last 29 years. Can you live on $ 60,000 a year instead of $ 100,000? Otherwise, the relationship must change. The increase in long-term rate of return of 5% makes the final funding for 37 years. Taking 8%, or $ 80,000 per year while earning 5% will make you short of money in 21 years.

How long do you plan to live in retirement? Each person must determine their own personal relationship, and one of the easiest ways to do this is to work with a financial professional. Remember, the Lincoln Financial is a study guide to get started.

The study identified four behaviors that contribute to retirement success. The behaviors that lead to better outcomes are:

• Getting advice from a financial professional
• The member of a pension plan sponsored by the employer or IRA
• steadily Recording, and make additional contributions over the years, "energy saving"
• Have an investment strategy

research has also identified three retired behaviors that have reached the target of 10 times not to rely on. These behaviors are:

• Receiving an inheritance. This may or may not occur.
• The sale of a principal residence or earn money through real estate. Have you looked at the real estate market today?
• The sale of a business or shares in the company shares of the former employer. Again, it depends on market conditions and timing.

If these are your most important asset, what would happen if you need to turn these assets into income at a time when the market is down?

The study reinforces the recommendations of Lincoln for the actions that lead to better pension outcomes.

• The advice of a financial professional
• Participate in workplace pension plans (and IRA)
• Back up and "energy saving "wherever possible
• Have an investment strategy

Finally, do not rely on manna as an inheritance, or the product of the company selling shares, a company or your home. For more information on Lincoln Financial Life Retirement feeding studies courses, go to www.myconfidentfuture.com/retirementpower.

Parents certainly do not want to deprive their children of the chance to succeed. This feeling, this need seems particularly acute in this day and age of economic struggle, the middle class being squeezed into oblivion. At the approach of August, a number of my fellow parents face large tuition bills college for their children, some paid by fear (I suspect) that to do otherwise jeopardize the future of their children. But I know they do not pay tuition bills only 529 well-funded plans. So where is this money coming from? Their future.

This brings me to a question I asked myself for a long time: Is education "Ivy League", a degree from a prestigious university really worth it? (This from a graduate of a public university.) Parents should be risking their own financial future to pay the bill (or a partial invoice) for these educations "elite"? Is a degree from a high-ranking school higher earnings equal (ie, a better future) for a child?

According to Alan Krueger, professor of economics at (ironically) Princeton University, the answer seems to be no. In "The elite schools are overrated," in the June issue of Money magazine, Krueger and Stacy Dale colleague say they have collected data from more than 26,000 students from two dozen schools (y including schools such as Penn State and Yale), and the bottom line was: "during their career, students who chose not to attend the most selective schools to which they were admitted earned about as much as those who have similar qualities and results of tests that went to the highest rank they got to college. "

advice Krueger was present," ... if you have a child to apply to university, ignoring the different rankings. "

maybe we can all breathe a collective sigh of relief Think about how these economies will" buy "in terms of a more secure retirement Children may actually come out ahead.. They get a college education [ and will not have to worry about without retirement funds relatives traveling with them later and to the extent that the prestige name, a parent, I know had this to say: "Take a Sweat- shirt at the Harvard bookstore. "

It is summer ... and August ... and a Friday afternoon. The ideal time to take a break. We here at The Word insurance blog look forward to an early escape (shhhh!). I'll maybe take a dip in the pool later and do some casual browsing on the iPad. That's where I keep updated on all the blogs I follow. Every so often I like to look back and see which posts on this blog got the most traction, as far as the comments (especially on Facebook). Why not catch them if you missed them the first time.

Now more than ever, Permanent Insurance
College Grads feel empowered by debt
Women continue to underestimate their own value
What's your excuse?
the magic of life insurance

Many children are sent to school soon, so make hay while the sun shines! happy weekend.

We all like to be recognized for doing the responsible thing. I know I proudly wear the stickers to let people know "I voted today" or "Be Nice to Me, I Gave Blood Today." But where is the sticker for "I protected my family with life insurance?" Life insurance is one of those things that rarely gets recognized or rewarded yet it is one of the most responsible and loving things you can do for your family.

This is why we decided to create the Ensure Your Love Photo Mosaic . Presented as a new application on the Facebook fan page of LIFE, we encourage people to upload pictures of their relatives whose financial well-being is guaranteed in life insurance. It is an opportunity to highlight the important decision they made while linking to this great community of people who have done the same, the responsible choice.

I know that when I bought life insurance for my family, I felt really good about the decision. He continues to give me peace of mind knowing that my wife would be protected if something ever happened to me. That's why one of the photos I uploaded to the mosaic offers us the day of our wedding. After adding I used Facebook and Twitter App sharing options for my friends and family can see in the mosaic. He also gave me a chance to encourage them to contribute their own photos or thinking about getting life insurance if they do not.

Our hope is that eventually the mosaic will feature thousands of photos of families and individuals whose financial well-being is guaranteed in life insurance. And for each photo that gets uploaded to the mosaic, LIFE will donate $ 1 to the scholarship program life lessons, a fund that provides tuition assistance to students who have lost a parent or guardian and struggle to achieve their dream of a college education.

So, if you have life insurance, come and be part of "the bigger picture" by uploading your favorite photos (up to 20) to Ensure Your Love Photo Mosaic . If you are not yet decided to cover up, then I encourage you to take a tour of the pictures on display. They are the perfect reflection of what life insurance is intended to do - protect those we love and give us peace of mind to enjoy all the wonderful moments of life

The Ensure Your Love Photo Mosaic can be accessed directly on our Facebook page and on our website.

Today is your day Assess life ... interesting, because most of us to assess or reassess the "things "1 January or our birthdays. But, alas, there are still areas in our lives, we can improve and make better decisions about. Most of the changes we know we need to focus on our work, health and finances. Here are some questions to get you thinking:

Is your work / family life balance We know that technology has tied us to work and "extracurriculars" resumed our free time? . The Mayo Clinic has a nice post called Tips to regain control, which focuses on creating a better balance work and home. There are a dozen tips but that resonated with me was simple, but difficult to do at times: Learn to say no. As the article says, "Whether a colleague asking you to take an additional teacher or your child asks you project manage the class game, remember it is okay to respectfully say no."

is your exercise routine on track? Notice I'm not saying health. I think most of us admit that we do not get as much exercise we should, and if we did, our health would be better I think Michelle Obama is on to something with its Move campaign Let exercise does not have to be complicated;.. it can be as simple that get off the couch and walk around every day. Or, as the First Lady said, when in doubt, simply "turn on the music and dance until you sweat."

have you your financial priorities in order? It appears that (almost) everyone has felt the financial pressure in the current economic climate. People are coming up with creative ways to make their money go further; check these. budgets tighter households can also mean cutting back. Choosing a cell phone plan cheaper and dining room, instead of, sense. But be careful what you consider as a luxury or a necessity in cutting spending. Cable? Luxury. Life insurance? Need. If you are not convinced, read this.

Simplify? ... Simplify! An underlying theme of these articles and messages appears to be setting priorities. What is really important for you? Focus on that and leave the rest. Leo Babauta wrote the great blog Zen Habits (which has more than 250 million readers!). It has a great list of 72 ideas to make your life

But as we contemplate this change Evaluate your day life, I love the quote Babauta emphasized by Thich Nhat Hanh :. "Drink your tea slowly and reverently, as if it is the axis on which the earth world revolves slowly, evenly, without rushing toward the future. Live the actual moment.". .. The time for me to brew some tea.

I am pleased to present our 7 years Madisyn Grace. She is compassionate, happy, and for an athlete to the theater one day. She had me, her mother, to comfort, teach, take care of it and love it completely. She has no father. Two weeks before he was born, my husband, Mark, was killed by someone who ran a red light.

Mark was a bold, handsome and brilliant. He prepared our financial lives in the event of his absence. What if we had waited to buy a life insurance after Madisyn was born? Our lives would be completely different. I should have gone right to work, leaving the newborn, and perhaps out of our house. Life was hard enough at that time, the love of my life, the one I most needed, is now gone! In an instant! No warning! (You can see the video of our story here.)

Thanks to life insurance, I was able to focus on raising my daughter while managing our grief. Life insurance in no way removes the deep emotional pain, but it helps you manage your daily life. When the loss occurs, your vision is blurred, small tasks seem huge and thoughts to get up the next day and continue with your routine no longer exist. With the gift of life insurance, you can focus on managing the physical loss and not financial. His father was gone physically, but we were able to manage financially because he had the foresight to protect us in his absence. This intangible gift of life insurance now became tangible :. Life

It was now my turn to lead our family on a new path. We need to focus on love and not the loss. We show everybody that, in receiving the life insurance that we could make a difference in this world. We would take the Mark token of love and share our gratitude for this gift that gave us a great start to our life rediscovered.

The gift of life insurance went way beyond us be able to stay in our own house and protect the future of our daughter. We were able to start the Mark Wandall Foundation. We were able to create the Coalition Running STOP Red Light, which has allowed us to move the draft bailout bill "The Road Safety Act Mark Wandall." And we were able to build a business, M3 Concepts motivation scored by Grace with an authentic approach to educate, encourage and empower.

not wait! Show your family how much you love them. please, do not let your family empty handed. the loss is quite difficult to manage without the financial burden. Mark "paid back" in a great way. Its intangible gift has not only affected our lives in a beautiful way, but our community, state and nation as well.

life will always be the case and still be the right move, the bad and the down right tragic. Why not prepare?

Last month, my husband and I realized a long dream of life: We bought our own house. (We are a toast to our new house in this picture.) It has everything we wanted-rooms for our daughter and unborn baby, office space and a magnificent kitchen. The unpacking process, decoration and make this house a home been so fun. Even my husband got into the act and found his interior decorator!

This week I open the mail to find our first mortgage payment stub. With it came the insurance bill for our owner. Hello, reality! Owning a home is more than just play house. I sat at my desk with the bills and looked down to my daughter playing on the floor next to me. Does it feels like to be growing up?

After paying the bills, I joined my daughter on the floor and played with it. As we have stacked the blocks, I felt proud that I am able to provide a safe and comfortable place to live and grow. But I suddenly was overwhelmed by a sense of panic. What would it happen if something happened to me or my husband? Which would provide for her?

I had went online and discovered that many people who buy homes also get life insurance. This surprised me. Life insurance has always seemed like something only for people with big salaries and big families-not your average family like mine, but I soon realized that was not the case at all. Responsible, people-forward had life insurance. I want to be responsible and forward thinking!

Yesterday my husband and I started the life insurance research process. Now we can feel safe, knowing that we would never get anything, our daughter will be scheduled. I'm really an adult!

In these rocky economic times, business owners must make tough decisions to keep their businesses healthy and, hopefully, growing. Often, when it comes to budget cuts and tightening of the belt, the first thing to go or cut back are benefits.

I challenge you to think differently.

Many companies say they value their employees, but they do not follow this declaration. If If employees do not think you care about them, they care about you. In our business, we say that our people are our most important asset, and a way to show that is by providing our employees a set of generous benefits. It is a win-win. Great benefits help us attract employees who are there for the long term and keep them happy and engaged. . Happy, healthy employees are better for our company

This is part of what we offer:

• 85% of health insurance premiums paid by employers for employees and dependents
• 401 (k) plan with 100% employer match up to 3% of salary, then 50% up to 2% of the following compensation; postponement of the average employee 8.9%
• 100% employer-paid premiums for short and long term disability insurance
• 100% of the premiums paid by employer for the insurance of long-term care

now you can say, "well, we just do not have the money to do" this may be true, or can. -being a case of mistaken investment. with regard to budget time, you invest in a new roof for your building or hiring a new vendor? or are you making a direct investment in your employees making sure they have the advantages they need to stay healthy physically and financially and happy?

the key is to understand what your employees really want. Surprisingly, many times it is not more money. While people are certainly motivated by money, you can actually get a better return on your dollar by putting money toward generous benefits instead of raises. A great benefits package allows you to attract a higher level of talent and gain a greater commitment while they are at work. We also ensure that we remind employees that they have a rich benefits package, so they do not take for granted.

Altruism? ? Or better for the bottom line
We also offer something that many other companies do not: long-term care insurance benefits. We found the long-term care to be a growing concern for many employees. We pay 100% of the basic benefit, and offer the opportunity for them to pay for increased coverage and get coverage for their spouse. In addition, we searched until we found a policy that is portable. This means they will be able to access their coverage during the years when they will most likely need most of the post years of work. It is true that our society can not see a "benefit" to offer tangible LTCI because the employee is no longer working for us when using the service, but it does send an important message. Offering care insurance long told our employees that we really appreciate them now and in the future.

Our goal is to be an employer of choice. One important way we do that is by offering a generous benefits package. If you believe that people are your most important asset, you need to make the investment in them with a sufficient degree that they know that you care now and in the future.

Two months before my wedding, my soon to be husband received a call from an emergency room near his mother. She had come with bad flu symptoms, and they wanted us to get her and take her home so she would not be in itself lead. When we arrived, it was immediately clear to us that it was completely mentally impaired and simple flu could not be the explanation. After much insistence and outreach stories, we got her evaluated by a neurologist. She had one of the worst cases of viral encephalitis doctor had ever seen.

When our marriage arrived she was in rehab recovery treatment. The brain injury caused by the encephalitis, unfortunately, climbing his next big health crisis of Alzheimer's disease. Over the next 10 years, my husband started slowly taking on most of his care and manage its finances until we finally put it to a facility that could take care of its growing needs.

Meanwhile, one thing that helped us immensely was quite unexpected. There is evidence that many years ago, just after her husband died, my mother-in-law bought a very, very good long term care insurance policy. This allowed him to have a support home care for many years, and has helped place it in a better house when the time came. It was a great blessing for our family

This was never clearer than this past January when it was my turn. I get a call from my mother's doctor saying she was in a meeting and clearly had a kind of very severe pneumonia. My mother suffered a deep hypoxia (lack of oxygen to the brain), which was originally changed it to be combative and mentally, and she resisted going to the hospital.

coma After 10 days induced medically two months of rehabilitation, and six months of my mother being out of work, my husband and I almost lost our house trying to (and us) to stay afloat financially. My mother has long-term zero care insurance, no disability insurance (she is Assistant Professor), and little in the way of savings. Finally, we have addressed the problem by triggering social security of my mother early and having its movement with us. We adapt to being a family of four now; I secretly think my daughter likes to have her grandmother all the time. I do, too often. We run a little during the night time television. But we will survive

The contrast between the two scenarios is striking, and it is because my mother-in-law was smart and purchased long term care insurance early. she was in her late 40s. We brought the subject with my mother, but we met some resistance; she thinks the long-term care insurance is equal to the nursing home. We try to correct this misconception; the long term insurance would actually be much easier to keep it at home, after all. At 43 now myself, it is something my husband and I on our "list" when our finances recover this year.

- Peace of mind can be at the top of the wish list for most Americans, but with all the economic turmoil that been an impact on the lives (and budget!) in recent years, you would think it is out of reach.

However, it is a area where you can take care not only to protect your financial future, but also that of your family :. Planning Insurance

According to statistics, most Americans do not have adequate life insurance is appropriate. Unfortunately, this decision can have a disastrous effect on their families both in the short and long term. Many families will be unable to manage spending overnight after the loss of a parent while on the road, children may be unable to attend college or have other needs adequately.

TO LIFE Foundation, we are committed to helping Americans make smart insurance decisions for themselves, their families and businesses. These three steps will help you achieve peace of mind by ensuring your insurance needs are met

First step: Stop procrastinating .. In the words of Benjamin Franklin, " never leave tomorrow what you can do today. "You are aware that life insurance is important. You may even know friends or family members whose lives have been in financial distress due to lack of adequate insurance. But still, you Feel free to make the decision time for a reality check.. go to insurance LIFE Calculator needs for quick and easy analysis needs the answer may be just the motivation you need to get the next step

Second step:. .. Working with a professional You see your internist for a 12-month check-up and your dentist for regular cleaning Even your car undergoes a service routine by a qualified mechanic. Why would you entrust your financial plans and insurance needs to anybody unless a qualified financial expert? an annual review of your insurance and financial plans and portfolios with a financial professional can help you create a plan that aligns with your needs insurance and financial products and arrangements you have in place and to identify areas where changes are needed. (Locator Use Life Foundation agent to find a qualified professional financial adviser or insurance.)

Step Three :. Work the plan You know what you need and you can even have met professional insurance to get the facts and figures. Now you have to act on that knowledge. From a purely practical standpoint, the longer you hold off making a decision, the more money the policy can cost you, since, in general, rates increase with age. But there is not that your budget will be allocated, but your peace of mind as well. Knowing that something must be done, but do not actually do it is like wearing a heavier weight that grows every day. Ultimately, it is less stressful to make the decision and check the item to your list of things to do but continue to avoid. (Still not sure Hear experience CindyLu Rowe to life realLIFEstories?).

This holiday season, treat yourself and your family a gift that will keep on giving: an insurance policy that will protect your future and theirs. In addition to its financial benefits, it will give you peace of mind to look to the future.

TV is filled with highlight reels right around this time of year. Why should we be left out? Here are some of our most popular blogs from 2011. Enjoy (and see you next year)!

The magic of life insurance

For Better or Worse, For Richer or ...

What's your excuse?

When did stuffing money under the mattress Become a retirement plan?

My Embarrassing Admission

So, you have life insurance. ... But is it enough

(And still relevant ...) New Year's Resolution :? Get your life insurance ducks in a row

I heard the other day that tight economic times, people have begun to consider life insurance as a luxury, not a necessity. And while I can not look in the house or the bank account of someone else to see what happens, it seems to me a big gamble to put life insurance in the luxury column. It is not something you can get when you need it, because when you need it is too late.

And time is not necessarily on your side. You can be young, just raising children and trying to make ends meet, thinking that you have time to get life insurance ... later. But as history shows John Butcher, life can have different plans in store. Please look at his story.

And while it is heartbreaking to see Tre is without his mother, think how much worse it would be if her mother had not made the decision to get life insurance. Your family is protected by life insurance?