What Is an Annuity? An annuity is a financial product. It’s one possible way people can invest money. Technically, an annuity represents a contract made between the insurance company and the person who bought the annuity. When you purchase an annuity, you can make a one-time payment for it. In exchange, the insurance company promises…
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At the risk of throwing salespeople everywhere under the bus, I’m going to share a few stories that might change the way you think about how these professionals are compensated. Let’s start at the beginning. Recently, I asked my life insurance agent for an increase in my disability insurance policy. (You can learn more about…
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Cosigning a loan may, at first glance, seem like a fairly straightforward, no-risk way of helping a loved one secure a student loan or a refinancing. Having a solid cosigner may result in better loan terms or a lower interest rate. But everyone should be fully aware of what it actually means to cosign, and…
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If you’re thinking of using a long-short mutual fund as part of your investment strategy, you may want to think again. Despite what you may have read in an investing magazine, this investment plan isn’t for the faint of heart. The reason why is simple: Most money managers who successfully use a long-short strategy are exceptionally skilled….
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I love reader questions – and always jump at the chance to answer them. Today’s question comes from Phillip. Phillip just had his first kid, Alexander. Being a good parent, Phillip is making progress towards three vital things for new parents: Life Insurance Disability Insurance A Will Like any budget-conscious person, Phillip is aghast at the…
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Today’s post is inspired by a client, who asks about his Roth 401(k): I just looked at my 401k account and I have the option to do a Roth 401K. What are your thoughts between traditional and Roth? I’m a strong believer in the Roth option. I’ve got a few reasons why. Tax Arbitrage The…
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A few nights before the election, my wife and I were out for a walk with our Jack-a-Bee. The topic of the presidency came up. Our conversation went something like this: Lien, my wife: Hilary is going to win the election. Me: I wouldn’t be so sure. Lien: All the polls show Hilary is in…
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Before I tell you about whole life insurance, imagine for a moment: You’re going shopping for a new dishwasher. A salesman approaches you and tells you about a FANTASTIC new product: the dishwashing car! The dish-washing car is a car with a built-in dishwasher! Just think of the possibilities: You can do your dishes while…
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