The investment philosophy of Warren Buffett - In 23 Quotes

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Warren Buffett is the most successful investor of our time, perhaps no time. And 'famous for his quotes and meaningful, often known in his annual letter to shareholders.

Taken together, his quotes pretty well sum up his investment philosophy and approach. Here are his best sound bites of all time on a reasonable investor.

1st Rule No.1: Never lose money. Rule No.2: Never forget rule No.1.

Investing outside the 2nd is that the money now to get more money back infuture.

3. Never invest in a business you cannot understand.

4. I don't look to jump over 7-foot bars: I look around for 1-foot bars that I can step over.

5. I put heavy weight on certainty. It's not risky to buy securities at a fraction of what they're worth.

6. If a business does well, the stock eventually follows.

7. It's far better to buy a wonderful company at a fair price than a fair company at a wonderful price.

8. Time is the friend of the wonderful company, the enemy of the mediocre.

9. For some reason people take their cues from price action rather than from values. Price is what you pay. Value is what you get.

10. In the short run, the market is a voting machine. In the long run, it's a weighing machine.

11. The most common cause of low prices is pessimism. We want to do business in such an environment, not because we like pessimism, but because we like the prices it produces. It's optimism that is the enemy of the rational buyer. None of this means, however, that a business or stock is an intelligent purchase simply because it is unpopular; a contrarian approach is just as foolish as a follow-the-crowd strategy. What's required is thinking rather than polling.

12. Risk comes from not knowing what you're doing.

13. It is better to be approximately right than precisely wrong.

14. All there is to investing is picking good stocks at good times and staying with them as long as they remain good companies.

15. Wide diversification is only required when investors do not understand what they are doing.

16. You do things when the opportunities come along. I have had periods in my life when I have had a bundle of ideas come along, and I've had long dry spells. If I get an idea next week, I'll do something. If not, I won't do a damn thing.

17. [On the dot-com bubble:] What we learn from history is that people don't learn from history.

18. You are neither right nor wrong because the crowd disagrees with you. You are right because your data and reasoning are right.

19. You don't need to be a rocket scientist. Investing is not a game where the guy with the 160 IQ beats the guy with 130 IQ.

20. You should invest in a business that even a fool can run, because someday a fool will.

21. When a management with a reputation for brilliance tackles a business with a reputation for bad economics, it is the reputation of the business that remains intact.

22. The best business returns are usually achieved by companies that are doing something quite similar today to what they were doing five or ten years ago.

23. Diversification may preserve wealth, but concentration builds wealth.

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An annuity payments

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Everyone loves them save their money and watch it grow. It 's a good feeling to know that you put away a little' something for a rainy day, something for the children when you are away, or have a little 'something for retirement hobby or pastime.

Historically, the odds of payment, bonds or mutual funds was easier than the payment of a pension. And if the pension amounts already paid to you, though most likely stuck with him. This was the past and fortunately is notmore in this way. It 'now possible for people with pensions, to sell them off in almost every form and receive a lump sum for them.

However, there are several good reasons why an idea is not good place to start shopping around for a society where the payment of a pension. First, the payment dates to watch closely. An annuity that will pay $ $ 100,000 in 2015, is not to pay so much when you try to pay it today. Often when you try to cash out early, you will be happy fourthfrom what might be the date of disbursement.

The end result is a more severe test. could lose up to half of your pension built it early, and even that is high-end example that you really need to lose, when large numbers of applications, it is worth. Beyond medical emergencies and other crises tumble type, is simply looking and sometimes the wrong thing to the short-term profits at the expense of long-term stability. Always ask yourself rational, what you get when youthat is what you're giving up.

You should read the fine print carefully. Your pension payments could easily cost in terms of fees and taxes, control could not at first. Here are some things to consider before making a decision.

If you are under 59 years, 10% is a penalty on the taxable amount of pension has been forfeited to the IRS. This is the price you pay to not take advantage of the IRS tax treatment of part of pension. And there is no simpleWay to get the penalty money. If you buy another annuity, no matter. As the money passed through his hands already, the penalty is imposed to keep still.

There are some other alternatives to the payment of the pension. The Exchange 1035 is one of those where we help one type of retirement for another, but obviously not that people with problems of liquidity that is necessary to quickly achieve their hands on some money exchanged.

View of exemptions is another option for protectionout those types of tax penalties mentioned above. Read the small print. Some of these annuities allow withdrawals without penalties in case of serious illness or nursing home confinement. Among some of these circumstances, some insurers will allow up to 10 to 15 percent.

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Stay informed annuities

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With recent fluctuations in the economy and the credit crisis looming, it was natural that the rate of return to take a beating. One of the first steps of the government and the Fed should cut interest rates for the credit crisis that the nation was in the grip. This obviously is not good for investors bank Bode. With inflation also play a role which will see revenues of the bank even more distressing.

In terms of investment, stocks and bondsnot seem to find much favor. This includes investors cautious as well. One of the best forms of savings in the current economic situation both by increases in fixed pensions. Since these accounts are insured, there is a guaranteed monthly pension from them. Prices are something that banks are not rivals.

It works like this, decide that in the longer term for you, the better your income. In the case of pensions, prices will remain for the duration ofContract. For those who wish to plan, the prices are usually between 5.5 percent and 6.5 percent. If the contract is completed, you can withdraw the full amount earned and reinvest in places that you may receive a better return. This gives you a better standing with regard to investment decisions a few years into the future. If a transfer of the fund was transferred from the candidate.

What you should know about rates of return, the tax payingis different from any other means of investment. As an account holder pension, you are essentially accumulate savings. It 's a sure way to a guaranteed income for the rest of your life.

Despite the constant changes in the economy and ongoing credit crisis, pensions have a stable source of income. This is mainly due to fixed interest rate when you open the account. You are given a selection on the interest rate to choose. With the gradual increase in youraccumulated wealth, you can retire and reinvest the funds, if deemed appropriate. This is the kind of certainty no other investment and savings plan can give you.

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Structured Settlement Broker - the shocking truth

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In all forms of business brokers are all considered as one of the most intelligent. They are paid almost nothing. All they do is to obtain for the seller and buyer together. Take the benefit of their familiarity. Although you can not make a profitable production to the parties, they are intelligent enough to make the parts that they are the best way to persuade beneficiaries. So if you're here looking for a structured settlement broker, so be careful whatto obtain.

The broker or agent of some help, but also make you eat her hands. This is the simple fact that needs no affirmation of any kind.

There are various tire structured settlement brokers. There are different levels of processing involved structured. Depending on the stage six of the village, would require different services of brokers or agents. If you are looking for an agent,quote can help in achieving a settlement, so you need a mediator.

It can help a lawyer. There are lawyers specializing in structured settlement needs of the public. If you are a broker, from then on is a good chance that he could trick you want to continue to be a value less an estimate. You will not believe, but there are brokers who take money from the settlements lead counsel in a plaintiff lost. In case of legal problemsthe level of tricks and fraud knows no boundaries.

Also, if you depend on a broker Rules are structured to issues such as payment plans, models, time, be sure to check the compliance of each instrument personally and state that participates. Finally, if you use the services of a broker to buy or sell, settlement, always opt for a presumed.

Check with previous customers about your brokerits services and fees. Also, keep an overview of all records and important data that may confirm your integrity in the event of a failure.

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How to Sell a Structured Settlement Payment - What You Need to Know

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People have various reasons for selling their structured settlement payments.

Some need to have money right now to take advantage of an investment opportunity. Others are in the unfortunate position of having out-of-pocket medical expenses, or just need to cover living expenses as they recover from an accident.

Either way, selling your structured settlement payments for cash is the only way you can use it to cover a major expense.

The Best Way To Sell Your Structured Settlement

There are plenty of reputable companies that deal with purchasing structured settlements for lump sums.

They're not hard to find - you can start by getting referrals from brokers or lawyers. You should also be searching the Internet... the structured settlement market is extremely competitive online and companies have to give you great deals if they're going to compete with each other.

Selling Your Structured Settlement

There's quite a bit of paperwork involved with selling your structured settlement. It's not complicated, just time consuming - of course it's worth it in the end!

You see, potential buyers want to look at your assets to assess their options.

Avoid Making This Common Mistake Most People Fall Into When Selling

Depending on how long you've had the settlement, a buyer might want to "discount" the value to account for inflation.

Here's the basic idea: The value of the dollar is not the same now as it was 20 years ago. Inflation affects the economy and buyers will want to adjust for it.

Again, this won't affect you as much if you've only recently been awarded a settlement.

Either way, inflation is *always* working against your finances so make sure you make the right decision.

How Do I Get My Lump Sum Payment?

Once the paperwork goes through and gets approved, the buyer will ask how you want to receive payment.

Lots of folks choose direct deposit straight to their bank account. Others will want a cashiers check from a bank.

Don't Let The Process Stress You Out

I always recommend doing as much research as possible beforehand. Take your time talking with various buyers... have "fun" shopping around and let potential buyers know that you are - this will make them compete harder for your business!

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Does Your Structured Settlement Broker Have a Hidden Agenda?

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A structured settlement is a large amount of money awarded to an individual with a specific payout schedule. The funds are disbursed over a period of time rather than given in one large amount to help the recipient pay for living expenses and monthly bills if the award was made through litigation.

Structured settlements can be generated from lottery payouts, insurance awards or inherited annuities from a family estate. The bottom line is that a structured settlement is a monthly income stream that continues throughout the term of the agreement.

A Settlement Broker is an individual that can analyze the various factors of a settlement and apply best practice techniques to ensure the party receiving the settlement is receiving the best possible income stream for their immediate and future needs.

When defining a structured settlement, it is important to provide future flexibility into the agreement so that the individual will not only receive a steady income stream, but allow for future challenges and needs that can occur over the term of the agreement.

A settlement broker or financial advisor that does not have a hidden agenda would be the best advisor to choose for your settlement agreement. Unfortunately, once an individual comes into a great deal of money, a multitude of unscrupulous individuals can guide the individual in directions that may not be in their best interests. Some of these brokers or advisors might have ties to companies that would offer them referral fees or commission bonuses which may taint their perspective on giving the best advice.

In summary, the selection of a structured settlement broker is an important aspect of ensuring your current and future needs will be met over the term of the settlement agreement. Make sure you do your research before contracting with a company to assist you in designing your settlement agreement.

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Does Your Structured Settlement Broker Have a Hidden Agenda?

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A structured settlement is a large amount of money awarded to an individual with a specific payout schedule. The funds are disbursed over a period of time rather than given in one large amount to help the recipient pay for living expenses and monthly bills if the award was made through litigation.

Structured settlements can be generated from lottery payouts, insurance awards or inherited annuities from a family estate. The bottom line is that a structured settlement is a monthly income stream that continues throughout the term of the agreement.

A Settlement Broker is an individual that can analyze the various factors of a settlement and apply best practice techniques to ensure the party receiving the settlement is receiving the best possible income stream for their immediate and future needs.

When defining a structured settlement, it is important to provide future flexibility into the agreement so that the individual will not only receive a steady income stream, but allow for future challenges and needs that can occur over the term of the agreement.

A settlement broker or financial advisor that does not have a hidden agenda would be the best advisor to choose for your settlement agreement. Unfortunately, once an individual comes into a great deal of money, a multitude of unscrupulous individuals can guide the individual in directions that may not be in their best interests. Some of these brokers or advisors might have ties to companies that would offer them referral fees or commission bonuses which may taint their perspective on giving the best advice.

In summary, the selection of a structured settlement broker is an important aspect of ensuring your current and future needs will be met over the term of the settlement agreement. Make sure you do your research before contracting with a company to assist you in designing your settlement agreement.

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How to Sell a Structured Settlement Payment - What You Need to Know

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People have various reasons for selling their structured settlement payments.

Some need to have money right now to take advantage of an investment opportunity. Others are in the unfortunate position of having out-of-pocket medical expenses, or just need to cover living expenses as they recover from an accident.

Either way, selling your structured settlement payments for cash is the only way you can use it to cover a major expense.

The Best Way To Sell Your Structured Settlement

There are plenty of reputable companies that deal with purchasing structured settlements for lump sums.

They're not hard to find - you can start by getting referrals from brokers or lawyers. You should also be searching the Internet... the structured settlement market is extremely competitive online and companies have to give you great deals if they're going to compete with each other.

Selling Your Structured Settlement

There's quite a bit of paperwork involved with selling your structured settlement. It's not complicated, just time consuming - of course it's worth it in the end!

You see, potential buyers want to look at your assets to assess their options.

Avoid Making This Common Mistake Most People Fall Into When Selling

Depending on how long you've had the settlement, a buyer might want to "discount" the value to account for inflation.

Here's the basic idea: The value of the dollar is not the same now as it was 20 years ago. Inflation affects the economy and buyers will want to adjust for it.

Again, this won't affect you as much if you've only recently been awarded a settlement.

Either way, inflation is *always* working against your finances so make sure you make the right decision.

How Do I Get My Lump Sum Payment?

Once the paperwork goes through and gets approved, the buyer will ask how you want to receive payment.

Lots of folks choose direct deposit straight to their bank account. Others will want a cashiers check from a bank.

Don't Let The Process Stress You Out

I always recommend doing as much research as possible beforehand. Take your time talking with various buyers... have "fun" shopping around and let potential buyers know that you are - this will make them compete harder for your business!

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How to Sell a Structured Settlement Payment - What You Need to Know

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People have various reasons for selling their structured settlement payments.

Some need to have money right now to take advantage of an investment opportunity. Others are in the unfortunate position of having out-of-pocket medical expenses, or just need to cover living expenses as they recover from an accident.

Either way, selling your structured settlement payments for cash is the only way you can use it to cover a major expense.

The Best Way To Sell Your Structured Settlement

There are plenty of reputable companies that deal with purchasing structured settlements for lump sums.

They're not hard to find - you can start by getting referrals from brokers or lawyers. You should also be searching the Internet... the structured settlement market is extremely competitive online and companies have to give you great deals if they're going to compete with each other.

Selling Your Structured Settlement

There's quite a bit of paperwork involved with selling your structured settlement. It's not complicated, just time consuming - of course it's worth it in the end!

You see, potential buyers want to look at your assets to assess their options.

Avoid Making This Common Mistake Most People Fall Into When Selling

Depending on how long you've had the settlement, a buyer might want to "discount" the value to account for inflation.

Here's the basic idea: The value of the dollar is not the same now as it was 20 years ago. Inflation affects the economy and buyers will want to adjust for it.

Again, this won't affect you as much if you've only recently been awarded a settlement.

Either way, inflation is *always* working against your finances so make sure you make the right decision.

How Do I Get My Lump Sum Payment?

Once the paperwork goes through and gets approved, the buyer will ask how you want to receive payment.

Lots of folks choose direct deposit straight to their bank account. Others will want a cashiers check from a bank.

Don't Let The Process Stress You Out

I always recommend doing as much research as possible beforehand. Take your time talking with various buyers... have "fun" shopping around and let potential buyers know that you are - this will make them compete harder for your business!

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Cash For Life Insurance Settlements

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Life insurance is a popular policy investment sold by various insurance companies. In order to safeguard personal interests and those of the family, a large number of people opt to purchase a life insurance. In due course of time, if a policyholder is diagnosed with a terminal illness, the insurance company is legally bound to recompense the person. In case of an incurable ailment, policyholders need to spend on expensive medical treatment, to ensure comfort for the remaining years of their life. These medical expenses can be huge and policyholders may choose to cash in, on their life insurance. This is termed as a 'viatical' settlement and a number of investors are willing to pay for them.

In this agreement, a terminally ill policyholder sells his life insurance at a discounted rate. This settlement provides ready cash and is a legal exchange. People opt for such settlements as they eliminate the risk of handing over personal assets for cash. In such an exchange, policyholders need to name the investors as beneficiaries in case of death. They cash in on such investments, when the person dies. The investors are only concerned with their profitability or return on investments and this depends upon the life expectancy of the policyholder.

The rate of return is unpredictable and in case of longer life expectancy, returns are lower. A number of people choose cash for life insurance settlements. This is logical, as risking other assets for cash jeopardizes the situation of the surviving family members. The need for cash is optimum when diagnosed with a terminal illness. Money is needed for treatment that can help slow or partially control the spread of the disease. Investors examine medical records, diagnosis and prognosis to confirm the seriousness of the illness before providing cash for life insurance settlements.

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Selling a Structured Settlement

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With the countless web sites, advertisements, legal jargon and complex issues surrounding structured settlements, it is easy to become overwhelmed and frustrated when you are simply searching for answers and straightforward information. Whether you've received a structured settlement already, or if you are just trying to better understand them, you've come to the right place for sifting through the messy details.

What is a Structured Settlement?

A structured settlement is a series of guaranteed payments (annuities) made over a certain period of time and is usually the result of an injury settlement or another situation in which you are awarded access to a substantial amount of money. It is the alternative to accepting an upfront lump sum.

Structured settlements are individualized plans meant to help you cover present and future expenses. Working closely with an experienced attorney can help you to determine an effective structured settlement to give you the security of a fixed income over a set period of time.

Example - how it might work: Melissa is injured in a serious car accident and is now unable to work for the next year. As a single parent, she has two young children to care for, not to mention her mounting medical expenses. She knows that she has to pay $25,000 in medical bills at the present time, and she knows that she will need surgery in a few months that will cost an additional $20,000. Her structured settlement can be set up to give her a lump sum to pay the present medical expenses right now, and be structured to give her an additional lump sum at the time of her surgery. It can also give her additional monthly payments equal to her salary for the year that she is unable to work, including an additional monthly payment to hire someone to help her care for her children while she is recovering from her injuries and medical procedures. Once Melissa goes back to work, monthly payments might cease or be reduced.

Types of Structured Settlements

Designated Period / Period Certain Annuities: Annuities with a designated period of time for the payments to be paid out. They can be made monthly, quarterly, semi-annually, annually, etc. Upon your death, all remaining payments are made to you beneficiary.

Life Annuity: Periodic payments for a guaranteed number of years (based on your life expectancy) or for life, whichever is up first. Again, the beneficiary receives any remaining payments should you die before the full amount is paid.

Temporary Life Annuity: Pay you for a designated number of years if you are still living, so your annuity ends when you die. There's no provision for a beneficiary to collect remaining payments.

Life Contingent Lump Sum: You'll receive a lump sum, provided you are alive on the due date. If you die before this date, your beneficiary is not entitled to the amount.

Lump sum: You can set it up to receive the lump sum on a particular date, say, fifteen years from now. Your beneficiary will receive the lump sum on the future date if you have died before then.

The Details

Though structured settlements contain a great degree of flexibility during the decision-making process (how much money do I need now, how much money will I need in the future, what are my present needs?), once you agree to the terms and sign the agreement, you can NOT alter the provisions. It is highly recommended that you have an attorney and trusted broker help you to determine the best payment methods for your situation. You might want to ask the broker to come up with several different scenarios and payment schedules so you can get a comprehensive look at your options.

So, even if your situation changes down the road, your payments will not. That's why it is extremely important to be thorough and careful when creating your payment schedule.

Inadequate Payments

Unfortunately, life has a way of throwing off our well-thought-out and well-intentioned plans. Even if you've done all your homework, shopped around for the best broker, interviewed many attorneys and carefully planned an effective payment schedule, you may still incur a large unexpected expense.

Should this kind of situation arise, and you are strapped for cash, you would love to be able to make some adjustments to your settlement plan. Of course, this is prohibited. But you do have another option. You might consider selling a portion or all of your remaining structured settlement payments to an interested third party.

Deciding to Sell

Before you decide to sell, think about what you want/need the money for. An immediate medical expense, buying a home or the decision to go back to school are usually considered good reasons. Examine your needs and the needs of your family as well. Perhaps you want a new home. Do you have children approaching college age? If so, you'll not only incur significant tuition expenses, you'll also have less of a need for a larger home.

Selling your payments will result in a loss from the full amount. Consider whether or not it is important for you to sacrifice the security and future total amount before you make a decision. You will have to understand the implications, benefits and pitfalls so you can feel comfortable making an informed decision.

Will I Get the Full Amount That I Would Receive Over a Period of Time?

No. The amount you would receive over a period of time is calculated by adding interest to the principal amount. Instead, you may receive the present-day value of the amount. This present-day value may have to be further discounted to cover the costs to do the deal. The rest will be sent to you in one lump sum. You might want to shop around to find out where you can get the best deal.

Court Order

To ensure that you will not be taken advantage of in this delicate process, the government introduced a new federal law in 2002 that requires you to seek court approval when you sell your structured settlement. This law works in conjunction with state laws to direct how the transaction will be completed.

Not only does this law protect you, the seller, it also helps the insurance companies who fear that they will face tax consequences as a result of the sale. The law states very clearly that annuity owners and providers do not and will not owe taxes as a result of this transaction. This breaks down the barrier that you might normally face from a reluctant insurance company.

Selling Options

You do not have to sell the entire remaining amount, or any particular amount, if you so wish. Here are your selling options:

Full amount: The purchaser calculates the present-day value of the payments and offers a lump sum

Part of the payments: Only a specific number of the future payments are sold at their present-day value

Percentages: You may sell a percentage of each payment and keep the remaining balance for yourself

Pitfalls of Selling

Shady brokers. Selling your payments will require you to contact a broker who can help take care of the proceedings. This means that you might run into some game-playing and/or manipulation tactics if you happen to be dealing with a shady broker. They may promise you a high quote, only to come back and say that they can't do the deal as is unless they get more money from you. Other brokers may claim to be "qualified" when they have only completed a week-long course. Make sure you're dealing with a broker who has a couple of years experience in structured settlements and is a member of the Better Business Bureau.

You end up losing money. As mentioned earlier, you will not receive the total amount you'd receive over time if you opt for selling your payments. Therefore you lose some money and the security of future payments.

It takes time. Though the federal law requiring court oversight in these proceedings helps protect you, it also delays you from receiving the money as soon as you might have hoped. If you need the money right away, this could frustrate you and hinder your plans for prompt payment. Normally once you decide to sell your payments the process can take as little as 4 weeks and as long as 12 weeks to obtain the court order and for you to receive your lump sum.

Benefits of Selling

The main benefit of selling your structured settlement payments is, obviously, that you will receive a lump sum of cash for which you can utilize in any way you choose. This gives you increased flexibility in using your money, and can provide peace of mind if you have an immediate expense that couldn't be paid any other way.

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Cash For Injury Settlements

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Injury settlements are legal contracts that bind the offender to recompense a victim for the financial losses incurred, as a result of an accident. It is also known as a structured settlement and the financial compensation is the outcome of a lawsuit. These payouts are fixed amounts that are reimbursed as monthly payments, over an extended period of time. These settlements guarantee a safe and fixed income for the injured person. This reimbursement is decided upon after negotiations between the legal representatives of both parties. The lawyers estimate the future income loss of the injured person and the approximate medical expenses. They are structured to make the funds available in proportion to the loss incurred, as the result of the accident. These payouts reimburse any disability or incapacitation.

Though these payments prove to be a regular and stable cash flow, they may not always be sufficient to meet medication expenses and immediate cash requirements. Though the payout may be a large sum of money, beneficiaries cannot demand for a one-time payment or advance. A number of people prefer to sell injury settlements, to be able to meet instant monetary needs. People consider this a feasible option. The sale of these settlements does not involve risking secured assets. People can sell injury settlements to meet their financial needs, rather than sell the entire contract. It is a quick source of cash, as injury settlements are legal and do not need to be verified in detail.

Cash for structured settlements are easily available at funding companies. They do not offer the equivalent of the injury settlement in cash. The difference between the value and the cash offered forms the service fee for the funding company. This discounted rate depends on the nature of the settlement, tenure, buying company guidelines and compensation amount.

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Focus - To All Structured Settlement Brokers

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The topics of broker assistance and compensation have been discussed at
length in recent months. In late December this debate became heated when John
Darer, a settlement planning consultant from 4structures.com, LLC went
head to head with Rhonda Bentzen, a structured settlement factoring broker doing
business as Bentzen Funding Solutions.

The debate between Darer and Bentzen revolved around whether or not it is
acceptable for you as a settlement planning consultant to charge a fee when you
refer clients to a factoring company. On this topic I would have to agree with
Bentzen that it is not unethical, per se, for a structured settlement planner to
charge such a fee provided such fee is reasonable in all of the circumstances.
My reasoning for this is as follows.

Similar to Bentzen, I have been on both sides. I was a life and annuity sales
agent for four years. I had created countless annuities for my clients and on
occasion when their financial positions changed I was asked to help them find a
way out of their annuity. This happened often enough that I found out about the
structured settlement factoring business and eventually changed my orientation
when I started Sovereign Funding Group in 2002.

Firstly as an insurance and annuities agent and now in the structured
settlement factoring business, I have always put my clients' best interest
first. I think that it is reasonable for a structured settlement planner or an
insurance and annuity representative to be compensated for his or her
professional assistance to clients when seeking out a reputable factoring
company and assisting with the sale details.

Where I disagree with Bentzen is when she states in her December 21, 2007
post that "...The referral fee ultimately saves the annuitant money and comes out
of my pocket". That statement is simply untrue. Contrary to her assertion, any
fee charged adds to the overall sale costs and impacts the best price available
to the client in the marketplace.

In light of the recent controversy I think that it is important to provide
some guidance to structured settlement planners and annuity company
representatives who want your clients to make an informed decision that best
serves their needs, gets them the most money for their annuity as well as the
fastest, most professional service.

1. There are many circumstances when a structured settlement may no longer be
appropriate for your client. Times change. Your client's assets must be flexible
to weather these changes.

2. You have taken great care to design a structured settlement that best
suits your client's needs. The factoring company you choose to advise on the
sale of your client's annuity should take the same care in deciding:

(a) is a sale appropriate in the circumstances, and if so what compliment of
payments ought to be sold;

(b) what is the best price available for these payments;

(c) what is the most expedient court process to complete the sale?

3. Each sale requires court approval based on the best interest test of the
annuitant and any dependants.

4. Purchase price and service level can vary widely between factoring
companies. Just as you would get competing quotes for structured settlement
annuities, you should get at least two quotes from competing factoring
companies.

5. Your client will generally get more money and better service if you
consult with a factoring company that specializes in the insurance field and has
legal expertise to complete the transfer process rather than a general buyer of
receivables or an intermediary who lacks control of the transfer or funding
process.

6. You should monitor the average length of time the factoring company you
choose takes to complete the transfer process and disperse funds to your client.
The benchmark is six to eight weeks. Unexplained delays beyond eight weeks will
cost your client money.

7. Throughout the transfer process the factoring company should keep you and
your client informed of the benchmarks and be proactive in resolving legal
issues that may arise.

8. In the case where your client decides to sell only partial payments, be
careful that your client does not agree to sell all payments in return for the
factoring company servicing the remaining unsold payments back to your client.
Servicing arrangements could jeopardize your client's recourse against an
annuity issuer in the event of a default. Furthermore, your client may not be
able to sell the remaining payments at a future date if they are serviced by a
factoring company.

9. It is acceptable for you to be compensated for your professional
assistance to your clients and referral to a reputable factoring company. You
decide. However, contrary to some assertions made in blogs, any fee you charge
will impact the best price available to your client. You should be careful that
your fee is reasonable in all circumstances.

Sovereign Funding Group has specialized in buying structured settlements for
6 years. We offer plaintiff brokers:

1. the benefit of six years of experience in preparing insurance annuities
and in-house legal expertise to make sure the transfer process is completed in a
timely manner.

2. the most money for your client's annuities by requiring our investors to
compete for each case thereby establishing the best market rate.

3. the fastest service by guaranteeing your client a price quote within two
hours of contact and sale documentation delivered the same day.

Compare our price and service level the next time one of your client's
contacts you. Call David Springer at 877-836-4661.

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What is a Structured Settlement?

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Structured settlements refer to the structured payments in cash on an annual basis that is made to compensate the victims of personal injuries for what they have lost. These are alternative payment systems that provide cash settlement payments over time.

In 1982, the U.S. Congress gave structured settlements special legislative treatment to make large settlements more acceptable to parties and provide more security and protection to the victims. Because of this, many people now prefer a structured settlement agreement more than the usual lump sum distribution. Moreover, courts use civil actions to award them, including long-term living costs and the need for obtaining payments in cash.

Under a structured settlement, the compensations of an injury victim is continuously received over an extended period of time (often a lifetime), and is not a large one-time payment. This is one way of securing the victim and protecting him from any economic loss and difficulty he may have to deal with later. It also makes it easier for the defendant to give out cash payments.

Though beneficial, structured settlements are actually not appropriate in all cases. This will not do at all for situations where the accident victim is still capable, where treatment and care do not take a long period of time, and where the injuries are not really serious.

Instead, structured settlements are established for cases like the following:

- Severe injury that requires a long-term treatment and future medical costs will necessarily be incurred to meet living and family expenses

- Worker's compensation cases where the injured person may not be able to work anymore or at least work to the earning capacity that he would otherwise perform

- Disabilities, permanent or temporary, that will take lengthy recovery time

- Cases of death of family members whose dependents will need a regular income to substitute for what the lost parent or spouse had provided

- Cases regarding guardianship of minor children or another person who is known to be incompetent like having psychological, emotional, or mental disability

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Structured Settlement Broker Services

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United States Department of Justice web site displays certain rules and regulations for extending structured settlement broker services. There are certain requirements and minimum qualifications required for a broker and these have to be complied with in order to become an authorized broker with US Department of Justice. It is important that before seeking a registration, an applicant must be conversant with all the procedures and formalities of broker services.

On the web site,you can check it very easy by typing those keyword at Google.com and you can get the result in two second at the moment, there is annuity broker declaration, list of structured settlement brokers which will help to identify how a broker service registration can be obtained and what services have to be provided and such other details. There are perfect set out rules which details about the minimum qualifications for annuity brokers in order to become a settlement broker in United States.

This once again re-emphasizes a fact that structured settlement is completely under the legal implication and there cannot be any misrepresentation of facts or figures. Both the parties are legally bound by the terms of structured settlement which are in order with the federal and state laws. This is actually very advantageous for those who are receiving services and for those who are giving services with the fact that there is nothing personal or impersonal, but everything is under the circumspection of law and this is very safe and very much required.

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Structured Settlement Cash and Working With a Broker

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If you were a claimant in a lawsuit and were awarded monetary damages, you may have agreed to a structure settlement instead of one large lump sum payment. This payment provides regular installment payments to you over time. This type of financial agreement has many advantages and was beneficial to you at the time that it was set up. However, it is possible that circumstances changed, and you need a large lump sum payment to meet new financial obligations. It is possible to sell your settlement amount and the best way to do that is through a broker.

If you are currently receiving installment payments because you agreed to a settlement, and now you are in need of a greater sum of cash, you can sell your structured settlement and receive structured settlement cash. You can choose to sell the entire structured settlement for one lump sum minus the fee that will be charged to complete the deal by a structured settlement broker, or you can sell only a portion of the structured settlement. In that case, you will continue to receive installment payments for the monetary amount that remains part of the structured settlement. You will receive a lump sum payment for the part of the structured settlement that you sell.

When you get structured settlement cash, it is like getting an advance on the money that is owed to you. The broker charges a fee for his services that can range from 10% to 50% of the money you want advanced. However, even though you are receiving your money at a discounted rate, you now have the use of that money immediately.

Personal injury lawsuits often involve settlements for very large sums of cash. Cases involving medical malpractice and wrongful death can often have settlements that range in amount from six to seven figures. These large settlements can have major tax ramifications so it is beneficial to the claimant to receive these funds in installment payments over time. Structured settlement payments spread over time involve little or no tax at all. In addition, installment payments guarantee a steady flow of income on a regular basis. Many individuals find it easier to manage money in installments rather than receiving a large lump sum all at once.

Circumstances in your life can change, and you may find that the amount of money you receive on a regular basis from the structured settlement does not allow you to meet your obligations on larger bills such as the purchase of a new house or education expenses. If you receive structured settlement cash in a large lump sum, it will make it possible for you to meet these new financial obligations. In addition, you may notice that the installment payment amount is not keeping up with inflation, and you may decide that receiving cash now is better than receiving installment payments in the future.

If you decide that selling your settlement money is in your best interest, you need to find a reputable broker who can help you through the process. A broker acts as a consultant, provides an assessment, prepares calculations and plays an active role during negotiations to sell the structured settlement. The information that a good broker provides during negotiations helps both sides reach an equitable agreement.

To help the claimant, the broker prepares a financial analysis and then determines the present value cost of the settlement. He or She provides expert support and information in calculations involving Medicaid and SSI as well as issues involving income tax. Because a great deal of financial expertise is required, apart from the brokers help your accountant or bank would be a good source for a recommendation.

As you work with a structured settlement broker, you should find out what the total cost of selling the settlement payment will be and how long it will take to sell the same. It is important for you to have multiple deals to choose from so make sure your broker can provide details about multiple opportunities. This will help insure that you are getting the best deal possible. Throughout this selling process, it is vitally important that the channels of communication between you and your broker be open. You should be able to communicate with your broker easily and often, if necessary.

You should retain the services of a qualified broker who is registered with the United States Department of Justice. These settlements are set up by the courts and each state has its own laws. In addition, there are federal guidelines that must be followed under the tax code. You can receive structured settlement cash when you sell your structured settlement, but the process requires court approval. Complicated transactions like selling a structured settlement should always be reviewed by an attorney who will represent your best interests.

It is important to research the broker's qualifications and experience. The broker you choose should be registered with the United States Department of Justice and be affiliated with at least one insurance company. The Civil Division of the United States Department of Justice actually publishes a "List of Annuity Brokers Who Meet Minimum Qualifications for Providing Annuity Brokerage Services in Connection with these settlements. The list for any specified year is in effect until it is replaced by another update. This list of brokers is alphabetical by their last name and provides the city and state where they are located.

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Buyers Of Structured Settlements

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You can invest your money in structured settlements or you can also offer the same to buyers of structured settlements as a kind of compensation for the damage suffered by an individual. If you want then you can sell a portion or the entire settlement in turn for a huge amount of money. On the other hand, you can also use the settlement for the purpose of cyclic payments.

Most of the time people sell such an investment when they face health related or legal emergencies. Thus, buyers should think of these entire issues prior to opting for a structured settlement. In case of a person suffering from injury, the settlement provided to him should be sufficient to pay for the medical expenditures and the everyday necessities of the family of the injured person. The situation should never arise where the sufferer would have to sell a portion or the entire settlement to cover these expenditures.

Prior to purchasing this investment, buyers should speak to structured settlement brokers as well as legal representatives. It is the main job of the broker to deal in these settlements and as such, the suggestion of a broker will be helpful. Buyers of structured settlements have to think carefully regarding the various offers offered in the market. They can get a lot of information regarding such offers from the broker. The broker can give buyers advice regarding the different deals offered and he will also tell them the deal, which will be great for any situation. Since the brokers assist in the sale of structured settlement, they are in the position to ask for maximum gain for buyers.

If buyers intend to buy the settlement as a kind of investment for periodical payments then they should look out for the best offer. If they purchase the settlement with the assistance of a broker then buyers of structured settlements will be able to cover all the required expenditures.

This kind of investment will suit the minors the best, as the buyers of structured settlements will be able to receive a huge sum of money when they reach the age of consent. Thus, the minors should purchase this kind of settlement

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A Guide To Cashing Structured Settlements

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Structured settlements are legal proceedings that arise out of an injury lawsuit. These result in cash reimbursements for an injured person. These payments are carried out by insurance companies and are always distributed through long-term monthly installments. When considering a reimbursement amount, it is important to hire a reputed injury lawyer who is able to represent a client's interests. The details that determine a settlement are the incapacitation, loss in earnings due to work absence or incompetence and medical expenses to be incurred. Though the pay out may be adequate, victims may require a large sum of money to meet medical expenses or emergencies. In such situations, a number of people opt to sell their structured settlements to realize immediate cash.

A guide to cashing structured settlements, allows people to understand and choose from the options available. It eliminates the chance of being compromised in such emergency situations. When people decide to cash in on structured settlements, the money received in return is always at a discounted rate. In order to understand the calculations behind such reductions, people can opt to read the guides. This allows them to compare their choices and decide upon a buyer who offers the best bargain.

The insurance companies offer cash for structured settlements. They offer cash at a discounted rate and not face value. There are guidelines that allow people to understand the facts that determine discounted rates. This includes the nature of the settlement, tenure, buying company guidelines and the compensation amount. Guides also offer details regarding the selling procedures and options. This includes information regarding the partial sale of structured settlements, as well the sale of an entire contract. Such articles may be promotional, critical, favorable or informative. People may opt to speak to brokers and agents in order to understand the system.

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Why You Should Consider Hiring a Structured Settlement Broker

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If you are receiving a structured settlement, you may want to look into hiring a structured settlement broker. There are certain advantages to having a broker help you navigate through the settlement process. Brokers understand how these types of settlements work, and can help you understand all of the details this type of deal involves. They can help you create a plan which best suits you and your situation, which is something you may not be able to do on your own.

A settlement broker can help you negotiate a settlement or can help you sell your structured settlement, should you wish to do so. They are flexible in the services they provide as either a negotiator, or as acting in your proxy in order to sell your settlement. Brokers work with both sides of the settlement process, striving to get an agreement ironed out which meets your needs.

In many instances, an individual could be losing money by not using a competent settlement broker. Acting as your agent, your broker will relate your interests to the entity which will be making the payments. In most cases, a good broker will be able to get everything you request pertaining to selling your settlement.

If you are selling your structured settlement, the broker will attempt to get the most money for your settlement as possible. Some brokers will work on a percentage basis, so it is definitely in their best interest to sell your settlement for top dollar. If you have a large settlement, a broker can make a huge difference in the amount of money that you receive from whoever is purchasing it.

Most individuals receiving structured settlements are doing so because of injury or personal loss. There are also instances where lottery winners will want to sell their yearly or monthly lottery payments, instead of waiting years to get their complete winnings. In either instance, it is to your advantage to get someone who knows the intricacies of both the laws and the formalities of buying and selling settlements.

A settlement broker is a professional who specializes in getting the most money from buying or selling settlements. In almost all cases, an individual will walk away with more cash in their pockets by hiring a competent broker. Therefore, it only makes sense to have one working for you.

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Structured Settlements - Why You Should Write Articles If You Are Knowledgeable About Settlements

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A structured settlement is a way of getting paid when you are injured in an accident, either at work or in another way, such as a car accident. It used to be that the person or company who was responsible for your injury paid you the amount that was awarded to you by the court in one large, lump sum payment.

The problem was that many people were not responsible with the money they received. Sometimes relatives and friends became involved and the money was spent on items that depreciated in value quickly, such as new cars, expensive trips, shady investments, or gambling. The result was that the injured person was then out of money and unable to pay for their medical and living expenses because their settlement money had been squandered away forever.

Because of the number of people who were involved in losing their settlement money the United States government stepped in and passed a law that changed the tax policy. This law, passed in 1982, is called the Periodic Payment Settlement Act of 1982. Because of the passage of this law injured people now receive what is called a structured settlement.

The structured settlement provides that the injured person receive monthly payments, or sometimes annual payments, over a period of years determined by the court. Structured settlement brokers figure out how much money the person will need over the course of their lifetime and arranged for the responsible party to set up an annuity that will pay the injured person over the course of their life for their medical and living expenses.

Many people are very knowledgeable about how structured settlements work but they are hesitant to write articles about them because they are not sure how to write. This is such an important issue in American society that it should be the duty and obligation of those with this information to share it with people who need to know more details about structured settlements.

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