Principle Financial Concepts

Debt Free Living - How long to Pay Off My Mortgage?

2011-12-09T08:56:00.000-08:00

As we approach another year it may be time to set some serious "savings goals" for the future. The idea of attaining a "debt free" life style is becoming a real objective, for many Americans. In order to achieve this goal, especially before retirement, will take some planning. A very simple method is to begin by saving between 10% and 15% of every paycheck. Those who can handle the self-discipline will, in short time, accumulate a nice savings account. The greatest temptation will always be to dip in to your savings, when things are tight. It takes courage to realize that the money we save each year is the most important financial accomplishment, that we can make. Remember, it not want you earn that is important. It is what you save.

Ok, the next step is figuring out how much ongoing debt can be resolved this year. There are many calculators available online, to help you do these calculations. My Mortgage Calculator is one of the best ways to determine how long it will take to pay off your home mortgage. The home is usually the largest investment of a family. It is important to pay it off as early as you can, and free up more money for saving toward retirement.

Most banking institutions do well in selling a 30 year mortgage. The numbers usually workout so that the bank earns several times the amount of the initial loan, in the form of interest fees. If you can budget extra payments toward you mortgage every week, two weeks, or month, you can reduce the number of years needed to repay a loan. This one action can save you thousands of dollars in interest payments.

Reducing the home mortgage is a tremendous start to living "debt free". Starting to save is the key. The two most important functions is 1) paying down debt and 2) accumulating savings. Both are important and should not be combined. Both keys should be treated separately until all debt is relinquished. For additional strategies or more information about saving methodologies, please click here.

Protecting Assets Is Important, Protecting Income, More Important?

2011-12-08T17:45:00.000-08:00

Most of us do consider insurance protections for our home, car, boat, health and life. We often spend a significant percentage of our income to transfer the liability of loss, should an unforeseen circumstance diminish any of these assets. Yet, a great number of us do not own protection to replace our ability to earn a living.

Disability Insurance has most often been marketed to professionals who enjoy very high income. Doctors, Attorneys, Dentists, Accountants, and engineers subscribe to these benefits along with many other professional designation. Replacing a percentage of income is vital to retaining integrity within our financial picture and family unit should an injury or illness keep us from performing the main duties of our occupation.

An individual disability plan is available to practically all employment situations. The age, health, and current income status of the applicant have a direct bearing on the cost of this benefit. If the applicant currently enjoys group disability benefits, the amount of personal coverage may be limited. Many disability claims last less than three years, but a very long term disability for serious illness or injury, can continue permanently. If you need additional information regarding benefits available to you, please call our office (407) 913-4815, or click here

Managing Your Assets - Before and During Retirement

2011-12-07T11:58:00.000-08:00

We all manage assets during our working lives. We live in a world which is looking to help us manage these assets every day. Advertisers, television, radio, newspaper, yellow-pages, and internet, "all of these" market products and services to lure your attention, and convenience you to direct your liquid assets to their particular product or service.

(This is a important factor which no other generation before us has had to confront!)

Our spending patterns are influenced by "all of these," along with parents, friends, peers, associates, past experience, neighborhood pressures, internal believes, appetites and cravings. Some of us have developed habits, of how we manage assets, over a very long period of time. It is important, when considering retirement, that we practice the best methods of managing our liquid assets.

One of the greatest fears of the current generation is that of running out of our retirement earnings. The majority of workers today will retire well below their retirement income needs. There are some easy solutions to these problems. The more time you have between now and when you will need your retirement income is an important factor. If you need to speak to a licensed and qualified advisor to better plan your retirement future, please click here.

Do we still need Health Insurance - Since Obamacare?

2011-12-07T06:14:00.000-08:00

The simple answer to the question of "Needing Health Insurance", is Yes, of course!   The modification of the health insurance laws of 2010 did not alleviate one's responsibility to pay current, on going or future potential claims. If anything, the massive governmental regulation has made the process excessively more expensive.

There is, however, a bright side to ObamaCare. For those individuals who can afford a modestly priced health insurance plan, but are currently uninsurable due to a pre-existing medical condition, plans are now available on a guaranteed issue basis.   Although affordable, health insurance for the uninsurable is not "free".

The current guaranteed issue individual health plans do have some qualifications.   The applicant should not be currently insured under another group or individual insurance plan. The applicant does have to be uninsurable due to a pre-existing medical condition. The applicant must apply for benefits, processed, and approved before coverage begins.   Claims occurring prior to the effective date of coverage will not be paid by the guaranteed issue plan, when approved.

If you need more information regarding these or other fully insured plans, please call our office at your next opportunity (407) 913-4815, or click here.

Tax Changes in 2011 - Are you ready?

2011-12-06T08:08:00.000-08:00

As we approach the end of the 2011 tax year, there is lots of interest in preparing for the IRS filing in April of 2012. One of the advantages of our online Tax-Calculators is in getting prepared. These programs can help to see opportunities and insure that there are no surprises on the 15th of April.

Many of us today have struggled with the economy and the challenges that resulted. Still, protecting the our assets, and planning for the future has never been more important. Even when cash is hard to find, the truth remains that with a serious tragedy, a lack of planning could leave our loved ones in a much worse state.

One of the best advantages of asset protection is "tax-deferral". Most people recognize tax-deferral as a component of corporate retirement plans. In fact all qualified (government regulated) plans offer tax-deferral as a growth component. Did you know that “Un-Qualified Plans” also offer tax-deferral? Tax-deferred plans generally provide relief to the tax-payer, during the accumulation years. One normally pays taxes on retirement earnings during the distribution phase. There are exceptions to this rule. Did you know that there are principal safe programs which grow on a tax-deferred basis, yet pay a tax-free distribution? To learn more about "un-qualified retirement programs" you should speak to a licensed and informed insurance professional. If you would like to speak to our office for additional information, click here!.

Traditional Life Insurance

2011-11-22T07:56:00.000-08:00

Life Insurance has been the most reliable solution for Security, and Family Protection since the late 1800's.   In the beginning, life insurance was designed to protect the life of individuals braving the high seas. It was dangerous to venture far from shore, but trade with other countries, encouraged profit and risk taking.

It became common to insure not only property, but also the owner of property, should misfortune strike.   Most of these policies were designed to pay for the final expenses of the property owner, and free up more cash for the survivors in a family.   As the concept of "life insurance" became more broadly accepted as a financial planning tool, better plans also evolved.   By the mid 1900's life insurance offered a cash value savings component that made a "life-Long" policy more affordable. Many consumers would use their life insurance policy as tax-deferred savings accounts.   Thus, they created a cash "endowment" account to protect their future. They could always get a loan from their life insurance policy in times of emergency, even when the bank said "no".

Today, many consumers are reconsidering the validity of saving more money in a permanent, tax-deferred, cash value, life insurance policy.   Why? Well the principle is safe, and it is not subject to volatile stock market fluctuation.  Similar to a qualified retirement plan, Life Insurance cash values grow, "tax-deferred",  but different from "qualified plans," Life Insurance Cash Values are available without penalty before 59 1/2. The policy-owner can borrow money from the policy at low or no interest charges. Plus, the assets within the policy are creditor proof, and not subject to confiscation through a law suit. If the policyholder has additional retirement needs, the life insurance policy can, not only provide asset protection during their working years, but also provide a tax-free distribution during retirement   A permanent life insurance policy, provides: asset protection, tax-deferred cash value accumulation, access to assets at anytime, tax-free distribution income options, and a tax-free death benefit for the beneficiaries at the demise of the insured. For more information about choosing the right life insurance plan for yourself and your family, click here.

How Much Home Can I Afford?

2011-11-18T09:51:00.000-08:00

With mortgage interest rates at an all time low. With so many homes now available on the market through short sales, foreclosures, and simply "for sale." This may be one of the best times to take advantage of the purchase of a new home.

As the economy strengthens over the next 24 months, many lenders will again loosen what has been a tight grip on the available loan market. If you are concerned about "How Much Home You can Afford," this may be the perfect time to take some time and calculated for yourself and family the options available.

Once you have determined the market, and your ability to afford a home, you may want to quickly compare the necessary insurance plans to protect your new asset. Homeowners and Auto programs have a wide variety of price points. Protecting your home from fire, your auto from accidents, and your family from the loss of your income is all found in the proper insurance program. If you need to compare these programs, please call our office at your earliest opportunity. We would be happy to help you "Shop the Market in Minutes"!

What is your most valuable asset?

2011-11-16T13:38:00.000-08:00

Most people say: "its my house," others refer to their sizable "investment portfolio."   In truth, your most valuable asset is "you".   If you were not here, there are many who would feel the loss. First, of course, your family, your spouse, and children. Next, your other close relative, friends, and business associates. Finally, your community, Church, and everyone else that you have touched in a memorable way.

There are really two ways that you are your most valuable asset. In terms of your life, and your ability to earn a living for those who depend on you.   Most everyone in the United States is aware of what a simple life insurance policy will do for a family in the event of tragedy. Many will find that the amount of the benefit is inefficient at the time of loss. This happens more often because we "undervalue" who we are, and what we provide in economic support.   Paying off the remaining mortgage is a good start; but the loss of 100% of your annual income is still a real financial blow for the surviving dependents. It is usually a good idea to review these types of objectives with a licensed and qualified insurance agent. Your agent will guide you in estimating a fair amount of coverage to help protect the family's need, now and into the future.

The second way "you" are your most valuable asset, is your ability to work.   Your ability to earn a living provides stability for the family (at all ages).   Many workers today bring years of experience to the workplace. . In the event that you survive a tragedy, how long will current savings replace that value for your family?   Protecting your income earning ability is one of the most important aspects of protecting your family, financially. If you have questions about how to provide this type of protection, please call a qualified agent or our office at your earliest opportunity.

What is the value of a College Education?

2011-11-10T12:05:00.000-08:00

Today we have record numbers of students entering colleges across America. This is the first  year, women have graduated in greater numbers than men.    As unemployement has risen, more students have opted to remain in school, advancing to 'master and doctatorial degrees' over entering the waning workforce.

So "what is the value of a college education"?   This is one of the most important question a high school graduate can ask.   Figuring the value of the degree, can in effect help one choose their future direction in life. Although a high percentage of graduates work in fields other than that of their degree; the time, effort and accomplishments still better prepare them for the workforce, than those electing not to attend college.

Creating a formal plan, by writing down one's goals and objectives is usually the first step in finding the proper direction and determining the cost of their financial decision.   Whether you concern is college, retirement, or even controlling the current cost of your auto insurance. Our website has many most of the financial calculators that one many need to prepare for what the future may hold.

If you need to speak to a licensed and qualified financial representative about other protection strategies, click here!

To Pay off Credit Cards

2011-11-10T11:42:00.000-08:00

Today, it is most important to have a primary goal of being "Credit Card Debt Free". As the economy has struggled over the last several years, it has been a temptation to use credit over cash. Sometimes, with the loss of a job, or the reduction in spendable income, the level of credit card debt has risen.

There are many statistics as to the alarming rate of bankruptcy and personal credit restructuring. It is though very important to properly manage liquid assets, especially when economic conditions are tight. One advantage to proper planning is the ability to calculate "how long it takes to pay off a credit card". Thus
one of our more popular calculation tools is related to learning how quickly one can become more debt free.

If you need other strategies or if you would like to speak to a licensed representative trained to help you protect your most valuable assets, please call our office at your next opportunity. For additional information and to find other financial tools, click here.

2011-11-10T09:37:00.001-08:00

Many consumers are now focused on becoming more debt free. The challenges of maintaining debt has become much less affordable with our current economic trends. Banks and other lending institutions have been given the authority to charge outrageous interest fees on outstanding balances.

One of the best financial calculators available is one that helps you see the impact of paying off your debts early. We call this calculator the Extra Payment Calculator. Using this tools, one can better predict when the last payment date will arrive for any loan.

Becoming "debt free" should be the goal of every individual. Now you can find the same or similar tools of many financial planners online to help you better evaluate your own personal financial condition. If you would like to discuss other strategies to protect your family as you work toward a "debt free" status, you can contact our licensed financial representatives at anytime to review your concerns.

2011-11-10T08:34:00.000-08:00

Are you about to purchase a newer vehicle? Should you lease or purchase the car or suv? Did you know that there is a calculator to help you determine for yourself which is the most effective way to do this - even before you step foot into the dealership. One of our more popular tools is: Lease or Purchase calculator.

Being prepared with a proper understanding of the cost of a program is the first step in making the right choice. In many cases, what appears to be the "lowest" costing approach my turn out to have hidden expenses. My office uses tools like this to help clients stay on top of their financial affairs.

If you have other insurance needs, from improving the current cost of your Auto Insurance, or finding the lowest rate on one of the leading Term-Life Plans, you can use our online tool to gather the necessary information to make a "right-decision" Right decisions are those which over the long run, help you to keep more money in your pocket, which improves your net worth over time. If you need to speak to a licensed agent about any of your current insurance programs, or if you need to find a specific insurance program, please click here for contact or other additional information.

Stock Market Returns

2011-11-10T02:59:00.000-08:00

Figuring out just how much money we really made in the stock market may in fact be a daunting task. One of the tools we use is a "Rate of Return Calculator" If this type of tool could help you better manage your money, just click on the link above.

Economic conditions change. For several years the US economy has struggled to recover from several longterm events. Insurance is one of the tools that most use to hedge their investments in the event of a long term recession or an unpredictable Stock Market. To learn more of the methods of protecting your most valuable assets, click here.

To review all of our online tools and calculators, simply click here. We use these tools to help our clients manage both their short and long term investment objectives. The online calculators provide a quick method of checking a result or tabulating a future return. Many of the calculators can help you determine if you are on track with your savings or if some investment changes should be considered. Whenever you have a questions about your over all plan, please call our office for assistance.

How Much Life Insurance Do I Really Need?

2011-11-09T15:05:00.001-08:00

Calculating the amount of life insurance is an important aspect of protecting the family's most important assets. Many family's today have both parents working. The combined income is necessary to cover all of the ongoing expenses. Our Life Insurance Calculator, will help you determine the amount of benefits you and your family may need in the event of an unforseen tragedy.

If you need to speak to a licensed agent regarding the type of coverage or the best plan for your family's budget, please click here, or call our office at your earliest convenience. (407) 913-4815.

How Does Inflation Affect my Standard of living?

2011-11-09T14:38:00.000-08:00

Inflation is becoming an inportant issue in today's economy. For most of us it is an invisible threat to our standard of life. Money does not go as far as it use to go. We see this most offen at the gas station and the grocery store. To learn more about the effect of inflation you can use our online Inflation Calculator.

Other Calculators are also available on our online Insurance Website including Calculation Systematic Withdrawals, Current Cash Flow, Net Worth Calculator, College Calculator, Student Loan Calculator, Calculate a Mortgage, Life Insurance Calculator, IRA Contributions and many more. If you have questions, please call our office (407) 913-4815. If you need to speak to a licensed agent or if you need other infomation click here.

Pre-Existing Conditions, Covered?

2011-10-26T05:47:00.000-07:00

For the past 16 years, those with Pre-existing Medical conditions, could only find health benefits through group insurance or COBRA conversion benefits after qualifying . Those with chronic conditions, serious medical conditions, pending surgery's or even a current pregnancy, faced high potential claims with no insurance solutions.

Insurance of every form is issued to protect against future claims and it's financial exposure. The challenge to this concept is underwriting Pre-Existing Medical conditions when it comes to medical or life benefits. Knowing of an existing or pending "future" claim, is a significant consideration when attempting to run a company with positive revenues.

If you or someone you know is concerned about the high cost of medical and life insurance or frustrated by the inability to find coverage due to a pre-existing condition, there are solutions available in the insurance market place. If you need to speak to a licensed and qualified Agent, please call our office at (407) 913-4815 or visit Our Website for further details.

Quote-MyInsurance.com

2011-10-06T10:04:00.001-07:00

Auto, Homeowners, Term-Life, Final Expense, Health, LTC - Online Quotes

Using the internet to find competitive insurance quotes has just become a little easier for the modestly computer savvy consumer. There are many sites from which to obtain select "auto, homeowners or life insurance" quotes. We have found this Insurance Quote site to be exceptionally easy to use when comparing many types of insurance benefits.

We currently live during a time, when the dollars we earn need to go as far as they can. Taking time to do a comparison can, in many cases, save us literally hundreds of dollars each year. Medical insurance rates have been "sky-rocketing" with the advent of "Obamacare"! Auto insurance rates have found a similar scenario, prices annually rising out-of-control. The best solution is to compare the market to find lower costing programs.

When it comes to protecting assets: cars, homes, medical expenses, and the family's financial security, it is usually a good idea to get information from many different companies. Once you are properly prepared, it is also a good idea to find a licensed and qualified professional to help you sift through the numbers and better understand the pro's and con's of plans you find.

Even if you currently have an insurance broker, having a second pair of eyes to review your options can again often save you even more money. If you are searching for a better plan or need a qualified Agent, please feel free to call our office at your next opportunity (407) 913-4815.

Location:Florida, Georgia, Texas & Tennessee

How Long Do I Need Life Insurance?

2011-07-02T09:11:00.001-07:00

So you ask, "How Long Do I Need Life Insurance"? This is an excellent question! It should be the first question answered by anyone considering the purchase of "Life Insurance". Why? Well, knowing how long you will need the coverage will help you choose the best plan. The answer will direct you to either a "temporary insurance plan", or a "permanent policy".

The best life insurance plan, is the one which is still in force when your family needs it. Most life insurance is built on the concept of paying off debts at the death of the insured. The second primary goal is to create a liquid estate so as to replace a percentage of the insured's income for his dependents.

Most of us can figure out how much insurance we need simply be adding up all of our current obligations. Then taking our annual income and multiplying it by the number of years of income we need to replace (usually up to 10). Adding the two amounts together "debts and income replacement", will provide a good estimate of how much life insurance one needs.

So now let's consider how long we need the benefits. If your debts will be eliminated by your retirement date, this portion of your coverage can also be terminated at retirement. As to an income replacement portion, this benefit for the family may continue as a need beyond retirement, based on the sources of retirement earnings. Some retirement income such as pensions, profit sharing plans, social security, and certain annuities can also terminate at the death of the insured. In these cases, the surviving dependents may suffer an unforeseen serious financial loss - compounding their tragedy.

To consider all of the long term benefits of life insurance including the need for a final expense benefit, you should speak to a licensed and qualified life insurance specialist. He can help you review all of the potential challenges by designing a plan to fit your needs and budget. For more ideas about finding the best benefits for your situation click here.

Location:Central Florida, Sate of Florida

Final Expense

2011-04-06T04:20:00.001-07:00

Final Expense plans have become very popular forms of permanent insurance designed to provide the needed cash to pay for an individual's end of life expenses. These programs are usually very affordable, and in many cases require no physical exam.

Unlike many forms of term life insurance, which often renews at more expensive costs over time, Final Expense policies provide a stable cost and coverage benefit for the consumer.

As with any financial product, it is always a good idea to take some time and review the plans available with a licensed and experienced financial service professional. These plans can offer a family greater financial security and transfer the burden of dealing with the last expenses if and when a tragedy arises. So take some time and review the benefits available.

In addition to Final Expense, Long Term Care, and Critical Illness planning can also provide a family additional levels of financial security when dealing with certain more predictable exposures. Some plans bundle these exposures in to one policy offering an even more attractive method of enhancing financial protection for the family. If you have questions about Final Expense, long Term Care or Critical Illness programs take some time to research these programs with a qualified insurance professional.

Location:Greater Central Florida

How Much Do I Need To Retire?

2011-04-02T06:55:00.001-07:00

Saving for the future is a necessary step for every American. When the economy is good or in the midst of economic turmoil - "it is what you save, that is most important". Although we live in perhaps the most prosperous nation in the world, the necessity of "saving for the future" alludes many of us.

Now, once you have elected the discipline to save; the question arises: how much? And, where to save it? The first answer is obvious! Save as much as you can, beginning with at least 10% of every paycheck. In many countries around the world, especially where there are no "social security" governmental benefits, workers have little choice but develop the habit early, saving 20% of every Yen, Pound, or Deutschmark, they earn.

The Saving Rule is: "live below your means," "become or remain debt free - early in life," and then "seek principle safe investments". It is common for many who work in corporate America to participate in "qualified retirement plans". The basic advantage to these programs is "tax-deferred" growth. Yet, with all qualified plans there are plan limitations and liquidity issues. However, "tax deferral" is one of the best ways to make your savings grow quickly each year.

Next, do your homework! Become a student of saving money. Are there other saving vehicles, which allow "tax-deferral", and yet are not "qualified plans"? What does it mean to be "principle safe", when investing? Can I save money on a tax-deferred basis and retire on a "tax-free" income?

Being properly prepared, for retirement, takes planning. If you have questions about you current savings plan. Or, if you are searching for ways to establish an effective savings program, take the time to review your goals and objectives with a qualified planning specialist. Saving for the future takes time, so start planning early and you will meet your objectives with success!

Obamacare Unconstitutional

2010-12-15T04:50:00.001-08:00

Good news for all Americans. A federal court in Virginia has found key components of the highly controversial "new healthcare legislation" unconstitutional.

The reason this is good news is simple. This recent "healthcare legislation" is much more about legislation than healthcare. It literally empowers the government to regulate the massive healthcare industry, with a magnifying glass; and even requires each citizen to purchase health insurance, if they want it or not. But the crowning jewel to this piece of legislation is the price. The cost - Almost a "trillion" dollars a year, beyond the taxpayers ability to pay.

Very often in the past when approaching a need for more insurance, a client might say. "I can't afford any more insurance". I'm "insurance poor"! Indeed! This new healthcare legislation would make everyone in America insurance poor, and a slave to the over-reaching, tax-and-spend powers of the federal government. The added pressure on our currently financially burdened economy would be immense. With no tort-reform, healthcare legislation, along with the politicians and attorneys, would bleed the economy and healthcare system dry. Our jobless recovery would soon turn to economic depression further increasing the Nation's deficit. In a few short years this governmental intrusion into healthcare would implode the system and likely the entire US economy as well.

What's is the solution? The answer will be found in free market competition, tort reform, and less governmental intrusion or regulation. In our current system litigation encourages over testing and un-necessary procedures. Government over regulation is not the answer - "tort form" is! With less litigation and more competition the health markets will become self regulating.

If you are searching for healthcare benefit options that are more affordable or if your current plan is at a point of renewal, speaking with a licensed and experienced agent may help you better control cost and benefit. For more information Click Here

Location:United States of America

The Advantage of Term Life Insurance

2010-12-12T09:00:00.001-08:00

Life insurance is a product that is designed to provide a family "financial security" in the event of a tragedy. The main income producer in a family provides monthly income to pay for the lifestyle needs of the family. Life insurance simply replaces the lost income by paying the family a "death proceed". This lump sum cash proceed is then invested into a principle safe investment fund, recreating the income through investments.

Sometimes "life insurance" is purchased to provide a specific amount of cash, so to pay off a mortgage or other large debt, and thereby bring greater financial stability to a family, facing such a tragedy.

Term insurance is the most cost effective way to provide a "death proceed" and protect a family from an unexpected tragedy. If the need for benefits is temporary, the purchase of this type of life insurance make more sense. Many do buy term insurance for long term financial needs, which could prove to be much more expensive over time. This type of life insurance coverage should be limited to protecting the family for specific short term debts or mortgages.

With all life insurance planning, you should take your time and speak with a licensed and experienced insurance agent. There are many plans from which to choose. Price is not the only concern. With the recent reduction in mortality cost practically anyone with a current term plan should review there benefits and so lock in the best rate now available. If you need to speak with an experienced agent, Jim Sandberg has been working with clients for over 20 years - click here for more information.

Location:Florida

Which Company Has The Cheapest Term Plans?

2010-10-14T04:16:00.001-07:00

Which Term Plan is Cheapest?

Many consumers today are re-evaluating their budgets in wake of America's continuing economic dilemma. With a national unemployment rate of over 9.6%, many communities are experiencing even greater under employment (20%+) numbers, when considering the uncounted non working individuals living beyond their now exhausted unemployment compensation benefits.

Some families are living on one income, other have only their savings to pay the bills. With many insurance costs like health, auto, and home insurance on the rise,
Many families are searching for other ways of controlling costs. Maintaining adequate family life insurance protection is still important. Today many families are compensating by searching for a lower costing convertible term insurance solution.

Not all term plans are the same. To learn more about the most Competitive term plans, click the highlighted word. The first step, however, is reviewing or establishing a better "family budget". The best insurance plan begins with the one that you can best afford. To help you establish a financial "game plan" you may want to speak with a licensed and experienced insurance professional. He can hep you identify the best plans for your family needs and budget.

If you need to speak with a life insurance specialist, Jim Sandberg has over thirty years of experience in the financial and insurance markets. If you need more information about the top term plans or setting up an affordable insurance program, Click Here.

Are My Savings Secure?

2010-10-02T05:01:00.001-07:00

With the down turn in the economy, many investors and savers are simply not sure where to put there life savings. As we grow closer to our own retirement, taking risk with our retirement accumulations is much less attractive than when we were young. Where is a safe place to grow my savings?

Having a "savings account", in this economy takes internal discipline. The "buy now pay later mentality" of the past several decades has kept too many of us in debt. Today, that debt is draining our wallets with exceptionally high 29% or higher interest rates. This is especially significant when the return on federally insured savings accounts, "Certificates of Deposits" and bank savings accounts, pay out only 1.35% to 1.65% interest. If the inflation rate is running at 3%, and if we are also paying taxes on the minimal returns, many of us are losing large amounts of money on our retirement savings.

Saving for the future is a must. It is our responsibility to provide for ourselves so as not to be a burden on family and friends. Today, hoping that a government program, social security, or other welfare solution will be enough or even exist is becoming more and more unrealistic.

* Start your savings today in a tax-deferred savings account.

* Take the time to establish a written plan of action.

* Speak with a licensed and experienced professional to design the plan.

* Pay off all debt, begin saving at least 5% then increase to 10% annually.

If you would like to review your current program or if you need more information about establishing a "tax-deferred" savings program for you retirement click here!

Location:Autumn In The Sunshine State

What You Need To Know About Your IRA Retirement

2010-10-01T01:24:00.001-07:00

An Individual Retirement Account

These are basically "tax-deferred" savings plans, which are "qualified" through the government. As a qualified account the savings accumulation is protected from creditors and grows tax-free until withdrawn at retirement. Now, there are some rules that govern these types of savings plans: 1) Withdrawals before age 59 and a half are not allowed unless one liquidates the plan and pays a 10% penalty, plus 2) Federal Income Tax on the full distribution. Thus this type of qualified savings plan is not very accessible, and has rather severe penalties.

In fact, all "qualified plans" retain similar distribution restrictions. Retirement with a qualified plan begins after age 59 1/2. Additionally, there are more severe penalties if distribution does not occur by age 70 1/2. So, to participate with any of the governments qualified plans does take some consideration and understanding.

Tax-Deferred Non-Qualified Plans

Fortunately there are several types of tax-deferred savings plans available to help one plan for retirement without all the restrictions and penalty limitations of the qualified plans. With all retirement planning it is important to realize that one's investment takes time to grow. Saving 10% to 20% of your annual income is much more effective if you have more than 20 years for the savings to grow. Accumulating enough money for retirement begins with a savings commitment, and finding the right tax-deferred savings plan.

If you are considering a retirement program, or if you need to review and make some adjustments to a current qualified plan, you can find more informations about retirement by Clicking Here. If you would like more details about managing your retirement program, or if you would like to speak with a licensed an experienced insurance specialist, Click Here

Am I Paying Too Much For My Insurance?

2010-09-29T04:13:00.001-07:00

All insurance works on the principle of transferring a potential "loss or claim" to the insurance provider. The risk of claim is the statistical chance of occurrence. The premium or cost of insurance is the price one pays to transfer the obligation or the "chance of claim" to the insurance company. If the contractual agreement or policy is in force when the event occurs, the insured is paid a monetary (money) amount or percentage based on the degree of loss.

The cost of insurance does vary based on provider, location, individual circumstances and other underwriting criteria. The best way to learn if there are other more competitive options is to review your insurance program with a licensed and experienced professional at least once a year.

Since circumstances often change, your insurance protections should also reflect those changes. Recently, there have been many positive changes within some insurance policy formats. The only way to know if your current policies reflect these plan improvements, is to participate in an annual policy review. If you need to review your current insurance program, Jim Sandberg has over 30 years experience in both the financial services and property insurance markets. He can help you understand the benefits of your current plan and suggest ways to improve the program's effectiveness. Keeping your insurance affordable is key to maintaining the benefits until you need them. For more information about a free review Click Here.

Location:The Sunshine State

Auto & Homeowners - Good Rates Harder to Find!

2010-09-26T08:47:00.001-07:00

Since Florida endured the devastation of Hurricane Andrew in 1992, the property markets have evolved in terms of coverage, rates, and policy limitations. Today, finding an affordable auto policy is more difficult as most of the leading providers require not only a good driving record but also a good credit score.

Likewise homeowner policies have a number of new limitations and underwriting requirements. If you have had certain specific home inspections, your annual premium may be drastically reduced. Remember to ask about the various deductibles and other coverages such as "flood" to insure adequate protection.

Even in this more difficult market place there are options for most drivers. Finding the right plan takes a little time and patience. If you need more information on how to deal with a recent Auto rate or Homeowner rate increase, just click on the term of interest.

When looking for the right insurance plan, remember to ask a lot of questions. Not all policies are alike. Sometimes a price only shopper fails to realize the benefit limitation of their low cost plan until the time of claim. So, be sure to speak with a licensed insurance agent who can explain the differences and make the best recommendation based on your budget and coverage needs.

All of these issues should be discussed at least once a year during your comprehensive insurance review. If you have not reviewed your benefits in the last year, or if you have just received a renewal rate increase, you can call Jim for a free 30 minute coverage review, or complete one of the forms online for More information.

Is Now The Right Time To Invest?

2010-09-26T00:26:00.001-07:00

When is the Right Time to Invest?

Saving for the future is a good practice every day. As the old saying goes: Over the past several decades many of us have forgotten to save. With the discovery of the credit card and the previous ease of bank lending practices, most Americans are now burdened with thousands of dollars of consumer and mortgage debt. And just as our country is now learning the penalties of over spending, we "need to learn to spend less than we earn and save the rest."

Saving for the future is not difficult, but it is extremely important. For some of us both "Social Security" and many other under-funded government retirement benefits may not be available, when it's our turn to retire from employment. Statistically, less than 3% of workers living to retirement age have enough money to survive without a government subsidy.

So when is the best time to "save" for the future? Starting a tax-deferred
saving program is good anytime. Where you invest your savings is also important. Finding a
principle safe investment will allow you to grow your retirement savings more
efficiently. To learn more about planning for your future Click Here and you will discover many of the tools and investment calculators needed for this task. Better yet, call Jim and ask for a free investment review.. With over 30 year of experience, he can help you find some easy solutions for a principle safe retirement.

Location:Central Florida, USA

A Penny Saved is a Penny Earned

Social Security Still Secure?

2010-09-24T08:56:00.000-07:00

Is Social Security Still Secure?

Since the mid 1960's American's have participated in the "New Deal" Retirement solution of the 1930's: "Social Security". For many of us living in America today, it is hard to remember a time when some type of government benefit was Not tied to our retirement at age 65. It is because of these benefits that so many American's have any money at all when they retire. But could the governmental "redistribution of wealth" be encouraging people to neglect the age old practice of "saving for the future"?

Saving for the Future is a simple matter of understanding cash flow and finding the personal discipline to put away 10% to 20% of one's monthly earnings, into a principle safe, tax-deferred investment program. It is true that if an 18 year old person could start a savings program with only $160 a month, by age 65, they would retire a millionaire, earning only modest investment returns. In fact, the most valuable assest we all share is "Time"! For it does take Time for an investment to grow.

All retirement planning begins with cash flow. To learn more about how to set up a personal or family budget or to gain more control over your cash flow, click here. Jim has been working with retirement solutions since the early 1980's. Taking a few minutes now to organize your finances can make a dynamic effect on your retirement earnings. To learn more about retirement click here.

Buy Term and Invest The Difference

2010-09-22T03:57:00.001-07:00

Buy Term & Invest The Difference

This is a cliché which has dominated the "sophisticated" professional world since the early 1980's when a renown, Harvard graduate, A.L. Williams, coined the phrase. The concept of term insurance is relatively new; emerging in the public arena within the last 60 years. The purchase of "term insurance," a self-described form of life insurance, by definition provides the insured a"death benefit" for a specified duration.

For a relatively minimal price, based on the applicants health, an insurance provider will contractually guarantee a beneficiary the specified death benefit, should the insured die within the allotted time period.

These plans, are potentially more applicable to diminishing liabilities, such as a home or business mortgage or other limited payment obligation. So, if the need is temporary, should the insurance plan reflect the same quality?

Yet, the real meaning of the cliche: "Buy Term & Invest The Difference" is much more encompassing. The author of the phrase, suggests that "all life insurance" should be purchased on a temporary basis. The difference in cost between "whole life" and "term" should be invested in a higher yield investment: such as a stock or bond fund. Thus, "all savings" should be invested in these high yield accounts, so as to replace the future need of life insurance, itself.

Under today's economic stresses, one might have a second thought as to a potential loss in the stock market. For example, if the "difference" between the cost of a Permanent Life Insurance and Term Insurance plan, were to be invested in the stock market, and yet lost, "how would a person protect their family's finances in the future?"

When is the right time to buy "term"? That is a question for your financial representative. Jim Sandberg has had 30 years experience, working with clients from all economic backgrounds. He can help you understand the various plan benefits, and cost associated with an individual's unique circumstances. For more information about his financial services

click here.

Location:Central Florida

The Difference Between Term and Whole Life Insurance May Surprise You

2010-09-20T18:05:00.000-07:00

Many people simply believe that you should buy term life insurance and that is that. However, it needs to be something you think about before actually undertaking. You can read more about that here.

Making payments on a term life insurance policy can actually hurt you in the long run as far as your finances are concerned. If you are paying towards something you might not use, is it a complete waste? Maybe, maybe not. It really needs to be something you sit down with Jim Sandberg about. He happens to be a leading specialist in different life insurance policies in the Central Florida area. He provides free quotes, and best of all his time to actually teach you all about it. Too many people are making decisions that impact so much of their time and money without taking the proper time to understand what it really is.

If I told you that term life insurance policies are used in death benefits only 1% of the time, would you think twice about making monthly payments that, more than likely, will never benefit you?

Jim can find the best fit for not only retiring professionals, but young business men and women alike. We can all debate term versus whole life term insurance in Orlando, FL for as long as we want, but until we understand the differences a proper decision is unlikely to be reached. Click here for a great start to surprising facts about whole life insurance.