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If you have someone counting on you financially – or even if there is someone in your life who may be required to pay off your debts and your final expenses in case of the unexpected – then you likely need to have life insurance.

You can use life insurance proceeds for any number of circumstances, such as paying off a home mortgage and credit card debt, as well as replacing lost income. Replacing lost income ensures loved ones can continue to pay their everyday living costs, in turn, keeping those you care about from financial hardship.

When you are shopping for life insurance, you want to make sure that you choose the right type and amount of coverage for your specific needs. You should also ensure that the life insurance carrier you obtain the policy from is reliable and stable financially so that your loved ones can be more assured that they will get the funds that are owed to them. One insurer that fits these criteria is the Baltimore Life Insurance Company.

The History of The Baltimore Life Insurance Company

The Baltimore Life Insurance Company was initially founded back in 1882, as The Baltimore Mutual Aid Society of Baltimore City. Five men began the company with a starting sum of $260.93 in company asset. At that time in U.S. history, many people purchased life insurance coverage so that they or a loved one would not have to buried in a potter’s field, as versus replacing lost income of a breadwinner.

While it took several years for the company to start growing, by the year 1900, it was starting to pick up steam. At that time, the company’s name was also changed to The Baltimore Life Insurance Company of Baltimore City.

Over the years, the Baltimore Life Insurance Company has held steady through several recessions, and even depressions, in the United States. But it has persevered. Today, Baltimore Life Insurance Company insures more than 300,000 policy holders – both families and businesses – in communities across the country.

With its home office now located in Owings Mills, Maryland, the Baltimore Life Insurance Company operates in 49 of the U.S. states, and in the District of Columbia. The products and services of the Baltimore Life Insurance Company are marketed through 13 different career agency sales groups that operate in Maryland, Pennsylvania, Ohio, South Carolina, and West Virginia, as well as through an independent sales division.

The company’s independent marketing organizations’ ability to develop strong relationships with clients is the key to the success of clients as well as the insurer. To achieve this, the Baltimore Life Insurance Company offers extensive support, such as:

  • A competitive product portfolio
  • An electronic application and underwriting process (known as INSpeed)
  • Stellar customer service

The key market segment that the company targets is those who are in middle-class America.

The Baltimore Life Insurance Company Review

As of year-end 2016, the Baltimore Life Insurance Company had invested assets of nearly $1.2 billion – which equates to approximately 4 percent more than year-end 2015, and total assets of $1.241 billion. The company’s surplus stood at more than $81 million, which is a significant increase over the year prior.

The company also increased its new business sales in 2016, by 8 percent over its 2015 figures. Given its normalized sales and its death claims, the Baltimore Life Insurance Company continues to demonstrate positive operating income.

Today, just as it was when the company began in 1882, the Baltimore Life Insurance Company serves the mutual interests of its policyholders, its agents, its employees, and the communities around it. Commitment to excellence guides the company’s actions to the following:

  • Financial discipline
  • Making a positive difference
  • Integrity and respect
  • Openness and honesty

The Baltimore Life Insurance Company serves in some ways, including through sponsorships and employee volunteerism. Just some of the charities the company supports include the United Way and the Community Grants Program, as well as regular blood drives via the Red Cross.

Insurer Ratings and Better Business Bureau (BBB) Grade

Based on the company’s financial stability, and its ability to pay out its policyholder claims, the Baltimore Life Insurance Company has a rating of B++ (Good) from A.M. Best Company. This rating is fifth out of a possible 16 ratings.

Also, even though the Baltimore Life Insurance Company is not a Better Business Bureau (BBB) accredited company, the BBB has given this insurer a grade of A+. This is on an overall grading scale of A+ to F. Over the past three years, the Baltimore Life Insurance Company has only had to close out three customer complaints through the Better Business Bureau (and only one of these was in the past 12 months). All three of the complaints centered on problems with the company’s products and services.

Life Insurance Coverage Offered Through The Baltimore Life Insurance Company

The Baltimore Life Insurance Company offers a long list of personal life insurance options to choose. These can help to address both individual and family needs. These policy offerings include the following:

  • Secure Solutions Protector – Level Term Life Insurance – The Secure Solutions Protector level term life insurance coverage offers initial level premium periods of 10, 15, 20, or 30 years. After that, the policy may be renewed on an annual basis. All of the death benefits and the premiums are fully guaranteed to the insured’s age 100.
  • Home Secure – Simplified Issue Level Term Life Insurance Coverage – This plan provides both a death benefit that can be used by beneficiaries, as well as the option for living benefits, which can be applied if the insured becomes disabled or is diagnosed with a terminal illness. These living benefits may also be used if the insured is confined to a skilled nursing home facility. Also, this plan has a return of premium option.
  • Secure Solutions Advantage – Whole Life Insurance – This whole life insurance policy offers guaranteed cash values, along with a level death benefit. The policyholder may also receive dividends from the company to take as cash, or to put towards the purchase of additional life insurance coverage.
  • Silver Guard I, II, and III – For those who are between the ages of 50 and 80, final expense life insurance protection may be necessary. The Silver Guard plan can provide those funds. And, once qualified, as long as the premium remains paid, the plan will stay in force.
  • Lifetime Navigator – Universal Life Insurance – The Lifetime Navigator universal life insurance plan combines the affordability of permanent life insurance, flexible premiums, and a built-in lifetime insurance protection guarantee feature. For those who are seeking long-term protection with a competitive premium cost, this could be a viable option.
  • Generation Legacy – The Generation Legacy allows the transfer of funds from non-qualified annuities and other qualified plans, and offers an easy, tax-efficient way of passing a much later gift from these proceeds to the insured’s loved ones.
  • Secure Solutions – Single Premium Whole Life Insurance – The Secure Solutions Single Premium Whole Life insurance plan allows the transfer of cash funds such as money market and CD accounts. Plus, if the insured is diagnosed with a terminal illness, he or she may access the policy’s living benefits for paying their medical costs, or any other financial need that they see fit.
  • Critical Illness Insurance – The critical illness coverage from the Baltimore Life Insurance Company provides for medical expenses that are associated with the major critical illnesses, such as cancer, heart attack, kidney failure, major organ transplant, and stroke. This plan provides a cash benefit that can be used for costs that are not typically covered by regular health insurance policies such as home health care, experimental medical treatments, copayments and deductibles, and the lost income of a spouse or other caregiver.

Other Products and Services Offered

In addition to the life insurance coverage products that are offered via the Baltimore Life Insurance Company, there are also other products and services that can be obtained through this insurer. These include the following:

  • Retirement Annuities – The annuities that are offered by the Baltimore Life Insurance Company include options such as flexible premium retirement annuities (FPRAs), single premium deferred annuities (SPDAs), and single premium immediate annuities (SPIAs). All of these financial vehicles can help to ensure that a retiree will have an income for a set amount of time in the future.
  • Workplace Solutions – Baltimore Life Insurance Company works with business owners to help provide voluntary supplemental benefits for better meeting the needs of employees and their loved ones. These solutions include a permanent whole life insurance product, critical illness insurance coverage, disability income protection, dental insurance, long-term care insurance, personal major medical coverage, and more.
  • Financial Needs Analysis – The Financial Needs Analysis, or FNA, can help clients to set financial goals, prioritize them, and initiate a plan of action. The FNA should ideally be reviewed on a regular basis.
  • Prescription Savings Program – The Baltimore Life Insurance Company offers the ScriptSave Value Program that can help individuals and families to save money on necessary prescription medications. Both name brand and generics are eligible for this savings program.
  • Personal Planning Guide – Although nobody wants to dwell on it, there can be unexpected expenses thrust upon loved ones when an individual passes away. But, by going through the personal planning guide, individuals and families can plan for such costs in advance, and can often avoid having to dip into savings or other assets to pay these expenses.
  • Grants Program – For over fifteen years, the Baltimore Life’s Community Grants Program has helped many organizations in the communities where the company’s employees live and work.
  • Identification Program – As a community service, Baltimore Life Insurance Company offers several ID card programs to local groups and organizations. These programs can enhance the safety of the communities where the company serves. These cards include Child ID and Youth SportSmart cards, as well as medical emergency cards.

How to Find the Best Life Insurance Premium Quotes with Baltimore Life Insurance Company

If you have been looking for the best life insurance premium quotes on coverage from the Baltimore Life Insurance Company – or from any insurance provider – it is typically recommended that you work in conjunction with an independent life insurance agency or brokerage that has access to many different insurance carriers. In doing so, you will be better able to compare, side-by-side, the plans and the premium prices of different options, and from there you can decide which one will be the best for you and your specific needs.

When you are ready to move forward with comparing available life insurance options, we can help. We are an independent insurance broker, and we work with many of the top life insurance carriers in the industry. We can provide you with all of the important information that you will need for making a well-informed decision – and we can do so right from your computer. If you are ready to begin the process, then all you have to do is just simply fill out our quote form.

We understand how overwhelming it can seem when you are in the process of shopping for life insurance. There are many different policies and companies to choose from – and you want to be sure that you are moving in the right direction. Our life insurance experts can get you through this process easily, though. So, contact us today – we’re here to help.

Source: goodfinancialcents.com

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For home sellers, attempting to time the market amps up the pressure during what’s already an extremely stressful period. List too early, and you may give up some profit. List too late, and your home could linger too long on the market.

The best time to list your home for sale in the U.S. in 2023 passed you by a few weeks ago, according to Realtor.com’s analysis. During the week of April 16-22, sellers benefit from more buyers, higher prices and less competition from other listings compared to the average week.

But don’t despair, the market hasn’t reached the worst time of year to sell yet.

“Conditions for sellers are better in the spring and remain pretty good beyond the week we identified as the best,” said Danielle Hale, chief economist for Realtor.com. “The worst time of year for sellers is in late fall.”

More: The Pull of a Pool Is Strong, Even in Drizzly Britain

The three worst weeks of the year for sellers in 2023 are expected to be Nov. 5-11, followed by Oct. 29-Nov. 4, and Oct. 22-28, according to Realtor.com’s research.

“Buyer demand slows in the late fall, so it could take longer to sell and you may not get as good a price,” Ms. Hale said. “If there’s no need to sell right then, you may be better off planning to sell in the year ahead rather than just as buyers are focused on the holidays.”

While early spring is best for sellers, there’s potentially less competition from other sellers in late summer and early fall, Ms. Hale said. From mid-November to January buyer demand slows, but because there are fewer listings on the market, that time of year is slightly better for sellers than late October to early November.

“When to list your house depends on what you’re concerned about,” Ms. Hale said. “You can typically sell your house at a higher price earlier in the fall but you’re potentially competing against other sellers. If your home doesn’t compete well, maybe you’re better off a little later in the fall.”


Seasonality in the Housing Market

Most people assume that home sales patterns are dictated by the weather. After all, the spring housing market is widely identified as the busiest of the year and many people think that’s because after hibernating for the winter buyers are ready to move.

“Most metro areas have the same worst week or best week to list your home,” Ms. Hale said. “That’s because seasonality in housing markets has more to do with life events and cultural conventions such as school schedules and holidays than with housing market trends. The weather has an influence, too, in some places because it’s easier to see houses when there’s no snow on the ground.”

More: A Drought-Tolerant Garden Can Benefit the Environment and Add Value to a Home

Regional Variations in Home Sales

Still, different markets have seasons that can be good or bad for sellers.

“In the Miami market, September is by far the worst time of the year to list a home because you’re fully back in the swing of things such as school, activities and other commitments,” said Michael Martirena, co-founder of the Ivan and Mike Team at Compass in Miami. “It’s less than ideal to disrupt the busiest month of life to put a home on a market.”

In New York, listing your home just before Thanksgiving and anytime in December can be challenging, according to Jeremy Kamm, a real estate agent with Coldwell Banker Warburg in New York City. Mr. Kamm recommended waiting instead until after the start of the new year if possible.

“Fortunately, most agents would likely agree with this philosophy and therefore there’s limited inventory being released during this time, so if your home stands out in any way or you’re willing to hit the market with discounted pricing, you may still be safe,” Mr. Kamm said.

MANSION GLOBAL BOUTIQUE: 9 Stylish Home Picks From Women-Led Businesses

July and December are the worst months to list your home in Chicago, said Julie Busby, founder and president of the Busby Group with Compass in Chicago.

“In July, people want to spend time enjoying the summer weather,” she said. “In December, people are busy with the holidays and less inclined to attend an open house.”

Bill Aboumrad, broker/owner of Legacy Real Estate & Associates ERA Powered in Fremont, California, said he typically recommends that sellers put their homes on the market after Super Bowl Sunday to avoid the November-December holiday season and use January to prep their house for buyers.

“The other two times of the year that are a challenge are during graduation season and back-to-school season,” Mr. Aboumrad said. “Listings that are on the market during those times see a significant reduction in traffic. Each one of those phases lasts about two to three weeks.”

Mr. Aboumrad recommended that sellers wait until after June 15 in graduation season and after Labor Day to bypass back-to-school activities.

More: When to Consider Giving Your Listed Home a Breather From the Property Market

Tips for Selling at the Wrong Time

If you must sell at a less desirable time of year and don’t want to spend a lot to renovate, Mr. Kamm recommended pricing your home accordingly.

“Edit the home decor and design and make it as inviting as possible,” he said. “Staging can be expensive, but editing is easy. Adding some small touches and changing up accessories will bring some fresh character, too.”

Creative marketing may be required if you’re selling in the off-season, too.

“Think out of the box and don’t do what everyone else does—it’s time to stage the home to perfection, host an elegant event, and make sure you hire an agent who has a PR company and an SEO webmaster to ensure your listing is getting the attention and press it deserves,” said Mr. Martirena.

More: Should You Underprice Your Home to Induce a Bidding War?

If you’re selling in Chicago in July, Ms. Busby suggested bringing in a snow cone vendor to entertain the kids while their parents house hunt.

“In December, we work closely with our relocation contacts because many of the buyers looking at this time of year are relocating for work,” Ms. Busby said.

Ms. Hale, meanwhile, added that any home can still be sold at the “worst” time of year. “That’s particularly true this year because there are half as many homes for sale as there were before the pandemic,” she said. “Sellers are still in pretty good shape at any time of year because of the lack of competition.”

Click for more in-depth analysis of luxury lifestyle news


Source: mansionglobal.com

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Sustainable fabrics that are taking over home décor   – Luxebook


Sustainable fabrics that are taking over home décor   – Luxebook


Home Lifestyle Sustainable fabrics that are taking over home décor  

By Arushi Sakhuja  
With sustainability being the need of the hour, many luxury brands are continuously trying to show new and innovative ways to reduce their carbon footprint. With the coming up of thrift stores, new fabrics (such as organic cotton and vegan leather), producing zero waste, cruelty-free manufacturing processes and reduced water technology, and renewable energy sources, as well as adopting a transparent supply chain; brands are working hard to adopt more eco-friendly modes of production. According to Saachi Bahl’s, Founder Saahra and #ConsciousEffort Design Show and Conclave, one must acknowledge that there is no unilateral, linear, or perfect formula to be ‘sustainable’. She says….. “It is a complex process, and many times strategies are dependent upon the context of the business, its production and utility. Therefore, we must be receptive to more people in the industry approaching the subject and give them the scope to continually improve their efforts as there is no one size fits all.” 
It is worth bearing in mind that practices like repairing old weaves, recycling or upscaling can go a long way in giving back to the planet. And sustainable fabrics have come a long way, one must acknowledge that sustainable products do not lack lustre and finesse anymore. Rather, there is a rise in the innovation of new fabrics increasingly used by luxury brands such as Gucci, Stella McCartney, Tommy Hilfiger and Bottega Veneta. Décor brands like Kar Conscious Living focusses on the importance of Indian textiles through raw fabrics and subtle designs, showcasing the essence of their weaves.  More and more home décor brands are using materials like organic bio-washed cotton and handwoven wool. 
Selecting the right fabric 
Saachi Bahl
It’s always good to check what goes into the making of our home décor pieces. We’re still a long way from reducing our consumption to optimum levels, so the least we can do is make eco-friendly shopping decisions. That includes digging into the environmental practices of the brands you love and finding out how ethical they truly are in their production and manufacturing processes. “Decor and fashion have always been sectors that other industries look to for ‘what’s next’. Fashion designers have an incredible opportunity to not only reach but consciously influence consumers and other industries by choosing to create with the end in mind, choosing a material like ECONYL® nylon that can help brands close the loop,” said Giulio Bonazzi Chairman and CEO at Aquafil Group.   
Trend-related shopping cycles take a toll on the environment. Home furnishing-related individual buying decisions can also play a crucial role in our carbon footprint. Globally, the furniture market is worth approximately $ 575 billion. Manufacturers deploy vast amounts of resources to meet high demands, including trees, plastic, cotton, fibre and toxic chemicals, and hence the rise of fast furniture further complicates the sustainability dilemma. Contrary to what is believed, creating a home with the planet in mind does not require sacrificing comfort, style or budget. We can curate spaces by choosing earth-friendly materials and optimising sunlight, airflow and ventilation to reduce our daily impact. 
How are materials sustainable?  
You most likely would have encountered a few new terms like  Econyl, Cupro and Lyocell. You know they’re good for the environment because that is the information we are given. But what exactly are these so-called sustainable fabrics that are taking over our world? Luxury labels are shifting their focus to vegan leather and recycled materials. And the fabrics you grew up with simply don’t cut it anymore. “There is a plethora of new materials that designers and textile manufacturers are working with to make fashion more sustainable. Bamboo and banana fibre, leathers made from plant-based materials, and even sustainable silk are being devised. Along with all these innovations, it is vital to remember to buy from accountable and transparent brands, buy less and buy better, and re-wear, repeat and repair your clothes,” believes fashion designer Nachiket Barve. Saachi Bahl’s Saahra Sustain offers womenswear classics handcrafted in GOTS-certified cotton or peace silk, shoes from plant-based bio-leather called Pinatex, collections made from Econyl and even bags made from cork.  On the design side of things, brands are using reclaimed and waste materials that have led to the creation of unique products and the design world is excited to further explore this avenue. Redefining this space, sustainable home decor brands and designers show us the beauty of old is gold.  
ECONYL
Econyl   
Econyl is making its presence strongly felt in the market. The fabric was pioneered by the Italian company Aquafil in 2011 and is a recycled nylon fibre that is regenerated from plastic trash in the ocean, such as fishing nets, discarded bottles and industrial waste. Aquafil cleans and shreds this waste through a chemical purification process to extract pure nylon. That means that the resulting fibre, Econyl, is no different from virgin nylon. Giulio Bonazzi Chairman and CEO at Aquafil Group gets his passion for sustainability from his native place, a beautiful area in the middle of the mountains of Italy (Dolomites and Alps) near Garda Lake. The place taught him to love, value and respect the beauty that surrounds you. We spoke exclusively to Maestro himself to know more about the material. “ECONYL® is regenerated nylon 100% with a different story. It comes from nylon waste such as fishing nets, fabric scraps from mills and carpets destined for landfills. It is used for apparel, carpets, and other interior design products. And it has exactly the same performance as fossil-based nylon.” 
Aquafil econyl
The pace at which brands are adapting to the material is impressive and currently, Aquafil, with ECONYL®, collaborates with more than 2500 brands in the world. “As consumers continue to stay aware of material ingredients, it’s important that brands choose supply chain transparency. This will not only empower the consumer, but will also invite designers to tap into a new level of innovation and creativity. And this is why brands are choosing sustainable ingredients like ECONYL® nylon for their collection,” shared Bonazzi. ECONYL is mostly known by customers due to pieces offered by Adidas in its 2017 collaboration with Parley, Prada’s line of bags made with the fabric in 2019 — Re-Nylon and Gucci and Burberry have also used Econyl in their outerwear pieces and accessories, including the latter’s iconic trench coat. “Brands are using Econyl across different product categories like swim/resort to luxury. It is coming with the functionality of a virgin material making it good for fashion and the planet,” said Saachi Bahl.   
ECONYL is also used for home décor by brands such as Noho, a New Zealand-based eco-chic brand that creates durable and dynamic chairs made with materials from discarded waste. Alcarol in nature creates functional home décor pieces while preserving the natural materials as they would appear in their respective habitats. From the dining room and coffee tables to consoles and shelving, each creation replicates a distinctive landscape, bringing depth, perspective and beauty into your living spaces. Finally, Rols, a Spanish carpet manufacturing brand since 1917, integrates ecological materials such as wool or jute, and ECONYL® regenerated nylon into their designs, believing that ‘quality goes hand-in-hand with treating the earth with respect’. 
Rols
Cupro 
Another sustainable fabric that is fast gaining popularity is cuprammonium rayon, also known as Cupro. This is a plant-based fabric made from cotton linter, which is a waste product of cotton that’s often discarded. It can also be derived from recycled cotton garments, especially T-shirts. Cupro as a fabric is fine, sheer, smooth, soft to the touch, hypoallergenic, stretch-resistant, durable and dries quickly. Some even call this fabric Vegan Silk. Amouve procures organic cotton directly from Indian farmers and this practice has also led to less usage of water as compared to regular cotton. The brand offers a range of products comprising organic cotton bedsheets, towels, pillows, organic kapok mattresses and waffle blankets among others. 
Kar Conscious Living
Amouve
Lyocell 
Ethical bedding
Lyocell (also known as Tencel) is a plant-based fibre that was introduced 30 years ago and is mostly derived from eucalyptus wood, and sometimes oak and birch wood. To create the material, the wood is ground into a pulp and chemically purified to extract raw cellulose. The liquid is then pumped through spinnerets into Lyocell fibres, which are spun into yarn and woven into fabric. Lyocell fabric is soft, breathable, hypoallergenic, and more absorbent than cotton. Eucalyptus trees grow quickly without the use of pesticides, fertilisers or irrigation, making Lyocell much more eco-friendly and completely biodegradable. The material is a great alternative to viscose and makes it great for athleisure, activewear, and everyday basics. Ethical Bedding, a UK-based brand turns organic eucalyptus and bamboo into timeless silky bedding. 
How to make home décor sustainable 
Rug Republic Hestia
Nand Kishore Chaudhary, Chairman and Managing Director, Jaipur Rugs Group throws light on how the carpet industry uses sustainability in its design. “We believe sustainability in the design isn’t just a trend; it’s our responsibility.”. Chaudhary goes on to explain the process followed at Jaipur Rugs. “We prioritize sustainability in every aspect of our carpet design process, from materials to production. To achieve this, we utilize leftover hand-spun yarn to create unique and creative designs, reducing textile waste. Additionally, we use low-impact dyes that are obtained from GOTS-certified and eco-friendly raw materials, making our rugs long-lasting and beautiful while minimizing the environmental impact of the production process. By using sustainable materials and working with ethical partners, we create high-quality handmade rugs that not only enhance the beauty of any space but also promote a healthier planet for future generations.”   
Another brand that champions sustainability is Rug Republic. Their new collection of Floral Rugs is created with recycled materials, colours, designs and textures.  “The demand for sustainable and ethically made products has led to an increase in the appreciation for handmade rugs as well, as people like to spend on products that align with their thought process and values. Having said that, the timeless beauty and craftsmanship of floral rugs have further contributed to their enduring popularity, making them a valuable addition to any home,” says Raghav Gupta, Director of E-commerce at The Rug Republic. 
With climate change knocking on our front door there are three key methods to make a home more sustainable. Firstly, making the switch to regenerated nylon with the use of artisan rugs and furniture made from recycled materials, such as old carpets, abandoned fishing nets and industrial scraps can minimize waste that would otherwise pollute the earth. For example, for every 10,000 tons of ECONYL® raw material, we can save 70,000 barrels of crude oil and avoid 65,100 tonnes of CO2 equivalent emissions from being released into the air. From Jaipur Rugs and other trendy pieces like these Zanotta pouffes pick your products.  
Secondly, shift to Bamboo furniture. It is a sustainable alternative to wood, and is highly versatile for furniture, flooring and light fittings, giving your humble abode a modern and eco-conscious twist. Pick a rattan table from Fleck or Orange Tree’s rattan hanging lamp.  
Orange Tree Canna Hanging Lamp Double
Lastly, switch to bio-glass meaning home décor made from discarded bottles and jars, this material requires less energy and raw materials to manufacture. Bio-glass can transform kitchen countertops, bathroom sinks, walls, and windows into beautiful and unique pieces, adding charm and sophistication to your home. Renjini Thampi from Kerela upcycles glass bottles to make a variety of home decor items and Nicobar’s recycled glass section makes a strong case as well.  
Nicobar recycled glass collection
“India is certainly the country that will have the most spectacular development in the coming decades. And it seems very clear not only to me that the Indian culture as well as the Indian Government and Indian consumers have a strong interest and great attention towards the conservation of the planet and in doing and thinking step by step to find the best solution. Therefore, aiming for India, I think is one of the most strategic and correct actions to take,” believes Bonazzi. To conclude Bahl believes, “the innovative material industry is evolving at such a fast pace, that it’s just fascinating the type of recyclability and plant-based materials that are available in the market.” 
To conclude, daily habits such as composting food waste, cleaning with natural products, and installing solar panels, underfloor heating or double-glazed windows all contribute towards greener living.
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Source: luxebook.in

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How to File for Student Loan Bankruptcy – MintLife Blog

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credit score significantly. Depending if you file for chapter 7 or chapter 13, bankruptcy will stay on your credit report for seven to 10 years. You should also be aware that when you file for bankruptcy, all of your financial information becomes available to the public. The court may also decide on how and when you can spend your money, as well as who you must repay first.

Something else that you can try instead of filing for bankruptcy is checking if you are eligible for an income-driven repayment plan. This allows you to repay your student loan debt at an affordable monthly rate based on your income. Another option is to see if you are eligible for a forbearance. A forbearance puts a temporary hold on your loan payments if you are approved. To get approved you must show that you have some kind of outstanding medical expense or financial obligation. You can also get approved for military or AmeriCorps service. One thing to consider with a forbearance is that your loans still build interest when you don’t pay them.

Next, you can check to see if you meet the requirements for Public Student Loan Forgiveness (PSLF). To qualify you must have made at least 120 qualifying monthly loan payments under a qualified plan while working full-time for a qualified employer.

Some last things to consider before you decide to file are the costs and time it takes to get your loans discharged. Getting student loans discharged is very uncommon, so you will want to be certain you will qualify before you try. If you plan on filing, you should be ready for filing fees and attorney fees — attorney fees average over $1,400 and filing fees are typically around $300. This can be a lot, especially for someone who is looking to file for bankruptcy. That is why it is important to fully understand where you stand with your finances. Many people do not realize what it costs to file for bankruptcy. For some people this is a burden that damages their finances even more. This is why you must be certain that you can do things like pay your rent and buy groceries after filing. If this is too much, then you might want to consider other options.

How to Demonstrate Undue Hardship

Proving that your student loans will cause you undue hardship is not an easy task. You will have to demonstrate that paying back your student loans will cause a significant negative effect on you and those who depend on you.

There is no set way to determine or ask someone to demonstrate undue hardship. Courts have the discretion of what methods they use to determine your hardships. A common method used by many courts to prove undue hardship is the Brunner test. To prove undue hardship, you must meet all three factors of the test:

  • Poverty – You can’t afford to pay your loans with your present earnings and spendings, and maintain a minimal standard of living afterwards.
  • Persistence – Your present financial struggles will carry on for a considerable amount of time while you repay your loans.
  • Good Faith – You have made efforts in good faith to repay your loans and arranged for an affordable payment plan

Some courts use a different method of testing for undue hardship known as the Totality of Circumstances Test. For this test the court will review all of your applicable financial assets, future earnings, and expenses. Based on what they find they might rule for undue hardship. This test is different from others because it looks at all aspects that could have an effect on the person, rather than just one or two factors.

Filing for Student Loan Bankruptcy

Discharging your loans comes at the end of bankruptcy, and you might run into some tough questions along the way. There are a few things you can do to help you understand and complete the process.

1. Talk to a Financial Advisor or Lawyer

As mentioned, getting your loans discharged can be very challenging, especially for someone who is unfamiliar with the process. This is why you will want to seek assistance from a bankruptcy lawyer who is practiced and has been in these situations before. Their professional knowledge will be very useful when it comes to filling out the correct forms and procedures.

2. File for the Correct Type of Bankruptcy

When you try to discharge your student loans, you will first have to file for bankruptcy for either chapter 7 or chapter 13. Chapter 7 might discharge your loans if they deem you unable to pay because of undue hardship. Chapter 13 bankruptcy will not get rid of your loans, rather restructure the payments so they are affordable.

Chapter 7

  • You must show the court that you cannot afford the cost of your loans.
  • If you are eligible, all loans can be cleared and you will no longer be personally liable.
  • You must meet with and be questioned by your appointed trustee and creditors.
  • This process can take 4 to 6 months, but can completely discharge your loans.

Chapter 13

  • You can prove that you can repay some of your debts, but finishing your current payments will cause undue hardship.
  • Rather than being discharged, loans are restructured. You will hold onto assets and debts will be discharged after the case.
  • You must create a payment plan for the court and all creditors to view.
  • Payment plans can take 3 to 5 years.

3. Start the Adversary Process

An adversary proceeding is a lawsuit filed in bankruptcy and basically means that you are making a complaint in court. This is required for bankruptcy because your complaint is your inability to pay your student loans. When you file this proceeding you will need to have proof that you cannot make your loan payments due to undue hardships. This means verifying your income and proving that dependents rely on you, making it impossible to pay your loans.

So can you file for bankruptcy on student loans? The answer is yes, but you should look into other options first and establish an affordable payment plan. Now that you know what it takes to discharge your student loans this way, and you understand the difficulty and costs that come with proving undue hardship, you can take your next steps. Use a debt-to-income ratio tool to help you plan your payments by determining your ability to afford and pay a loan.

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Big-city amenities, small-town comfort, and a quick commute to Salt Lake and Ogden can all be found in Davis County. If you’re looking to move into this cozy-chic area, we’ve got your guide!

Cities to Fall in Love With

Davis County is the state’s third-largest—home to Layton, Farmington, Bountiful, Kaysville, and Clearfield. There are also a few smaller communities including Fruit Heights, Sunset, Woods Cross, West Point, Syracuse, South Weber, Clinton, and Centerville. This diverse city has plenty to offer for everyone! From thrill seekers to history buffs, you’ll want to check out this northern attraction.

A History Worth Documenting

Davis County was founded back in 1850 and still pays homage to its roots in several places, whether you want to step back in time at Pioneer Village in Farmington or catch a history lesson at the Layton Heritage Museum, Bountiful Historical Museum, or The Whitaker in Centerville. The area is rich with learning opportunities and chances to learn more about your new neighborhood.

The Main Attraction

There are so many things to love about Davis County, but we have to say the thing we love the most is the family-centric feel.

Growing Together

Davis county has plenty to do for young families, and one of the biggest draws is the educational system. The Davis School District is a proud Best in State award holder. With over 50+ elementary schools and eight high schools, you’re sure to find the right fit for your children

After the K-12 years pass, there’s no need to go far for a post-secondary education. Weber State is nearby but so are Salt Lake Community College and the University of Utah. If you’re looking for something a little different, Davis Technical College is a great option!

Eat Your Heart Out

No, really. There are tons of places to visit for foodies of all kinds. Got a sweet tooth? Check out Mrs. Cavanaugh’s Chocolates and Ice Cream. If you’re into local dinner fare, check out Arella Pizzeria, Pace’s Dairy Ann, or Holy Smokes BBQ. Feeling adventurous? Visit Argentine Corner or Fuji Sushi.

Lunch anyone? Two stops that cater solely to midday meals include the county’s top rated restaurant on Yelp, Vitos, and Beehive Bakery and Cafe in Bountiful. If you have artisan breads (or donuts and pastries) on your mind, Bunbasketand Parson’s Bakeryare sure to please.

It’s a Davis County Thing

Some things happen only once a year. In Davis County, these include the annual bison roundup on Antelope Island(fall), baby animals day at the USU Botanical Center in spring, and summer’s Davis county rodeo and fair. Opportunity doesn’t stop in mid-winter either. While some people choose to huddle close to a fireplace in their own home, it’s equally as cozy watching migrating bald eagles at Farmington Bay. Just be sure to bundle up.

Drive Easy

Davis County may be one of the LEAST out of the way places in the world. With most communities positioned on the I-15 corridor, it’s a quick trip to work from anywhere in Davis County, whether you work in Salt Lake, Ogden, or somewhere in between.

Hate to drive? You’ll be covered with FrontRunner, and its stations in Wood Cross, Layton, Clearfield, and Farmington. Stop for a morning beverage on your way at the very local World’s End Coffee.

On top of convenience, the Farmington UTA stop is right next to one of the most innovative shopping/transit communities in the area, Station Park. There you’ll find shops, restaurants, and office space, all walking distance of Frontrunner’s Farmington Park and Ride.

The Great Outdoors

Someone tell you to take a hike? There are literally more than 500 miles of trails in Davis County. Favorites include Antelope Island (the first-day hike on January 1is a chilly blast of fun for the new year!) and Adams Canyon Trail and waterfall—or even the trail system bordering the Legacy Highway.

Like all of the Wasatch Front, skiing is a short drive away for Davis County’s 300,000+ residents. Best bets on a crowded day: Snowbasinand Powder Mountain. Reach the pair by heading east on I-84.

Utah’s top amusement park, Lagoon, calls Farmington its home. While you won’t find rides running mid-winter, Lagoon has spring, fall and summer hours. Best bet for residents: Get a season pass that gets you in all season long. You’ll want to go more than once.

You can also play a round of golf at a number of challenging courses in the area, including Valley View Golf Course, Oakridge Country Club (current home of the Utah Championship), Glen Eagle Golf Club, or eight others. Find a complete list of Davis County courses here.

Fun Doesn’t Have a Bedtime

Time of day doesn’t matter—in Davis County, you’ll find opportunities to relax day or night. For example, schedule a time to visit a Sego Lilyspa or ramp up the action with the kids at Classic Fun Center in Layton. As the sun goes down, take in a live performance at Kaysville’s Hopebox Theater or a big-name, outdoor concert at the (Foreigner, Styx and Chicago can’t be wrong). You can also wrap up a busy day with a movie at one of the seven theaters in the area, followed by a bite to eat and a drink at Rooster’s in Layton—with some of the most unique micro-brewed beers in the state.

Join the Davis County Family

Does one of the many thriving cities in Davis County speak to your soul? Start browsing homes for sale in the area now or learn more about how to buy with Homie!

Homes for sale in Bountiful, UT
Homes for sale in Centerville, UT
Homes for sale in Clearfield, UT
Homes for sale in Clinton, UT
Homes for sale in Farmington, UT
Homes for sale in Fruit Heights, UT
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Homes for sale in Layton, UT
Homes for sale in Sunset, UT
Homes for sale in South Weber, UT
Homes for sale in Syracuse, UT
Homes for sale in West Point, UT
Homes for sale in Woods Cross, UT

Source: homie.com

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What Happens When a Bill Goes to Collections? – MintLife Blog

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credit score. You will then be contacted by phone and in writing regarding the details of the charge-off.

In this guide, we’ll explore what happens when a bill goes to collections as well as what to expect during the payoff process. You can still redeem your credit score by paying down your debt as quickly as possible and staying diligent with your other accounts.

What Is a Collection? 

The original lenders—such as the credit card company, mortgage lender, or doctor’s office—turn to collection agencies when they no longer expect to receive your payment. Collection agencies either act as a middleman to retrieve the debt or purchase the debt from the lender for a fraction of the original amount. The lender then writes the amount off as a loss to their business and passes responsibility off to the agency. 

Collection agencies purchase your debt for a smaller percentage of the original amount since they take on the risk that the money will not be repaid. This percentage varies based on a series of details, including the age and type of debt. Often, the higher the risk the debt will not be repaid, the less the agency pays.

When does a bill go to collections? A lender will typically sell the debt between 30 and60 days of delinquency, though they may not tell you that this occurred until after the transfer. Medical bills will not be transferred until they reach 180 days of delinquency due to the National Consumer Assistance Plan.

Once a lender sells the debt to a collections agency, you will receive a phone call alerting you of the change. Within five days of the initial notice, you will receive a physical letter that outlines the amount owed and how to pay or dispute the bill. Agencies do not have the right to collect fees or interest on the amount, nor are they allowed to threaten or intimidate you to pay the bill. The debt collectors can continue to pursue the amount depending on your state’s statute of limitations. The length varies between three to ten years depending on the laws of your state.

How Can a Bill in Collections Affect My Credit?

Payment history is one of the top contributing factors to your credit report, accounting for over a third of your credit score. Lenders want to be able to see that you’ve managed your finances in the past. Missed and lapsed payments that have gone to collections could be seen as a sign of financial instability. The effect on your credit score comes down to how late the payment is, the amount due and the type of debt.

When unpaid bills are sold to collection agencies, the negative mark can stay on your credit score for up to seven years. The starting date is determined by the last time the bill was brought current. For example, notes on defaulted bills can remain on your credit for seven years after the last time you made a payment on the loan in question. 

It is important to look at your credit report on occasion to ensure these negative marks do not appear by accident. If the collections agency or lender made a mistake in reporting the information, you can dispute the debt to have your report updated or the note removed.

As we mentioned earlier, the National Consumer Assistance Plan keeps medical debt from appearing on your credit report before 180 days of delinquency. This allows patients to negotiate with their doctors and insurance companies, many of which will offer payment plans when the bill is too high to pay in full.

How to Handle Accounts in Collections

Understanding what happens when your debt goes to collections can be daunting. Remember that you must receive all the details in writing within five days of first receiving notice. Once this arrives, verify the details with your own payment history and accounts. Review the Fair Debt Collections Practice Act if you’re concerned your collection agency is overstepping their bounds. Collectors are not, for example, allowed to intimidate you or call at unreasonable hours.

If all information is confirmed, you can approach the payoff in several ways. Set up a payment plan with your collection agency by determining a practical timeline with your own finances. If you can afford $50 a month for the next year, speak to your agency about this option and request any agreement in writing before proceeding. Avoid giving your bank account number or setting up automatic debits with the collection agency and clearly state how you plan to pay off the amount.

Dispute any inconsistencies within 30 days of collections notification. Collections does not have the right to list the debt on your credit report during the investigation. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has prepared sample letters for disputing or requesting clarification from a collection agency.

Once you’ve done your due diligence of requesting a payment plan and paying down the debt to your ability, the statute of limitations laid out by your state determines how long a collection agency can pursue you. A collection agency can sue you for unpaid debt, but you may have a case to have the lawsuit dismissed with legal assistance if the debt is outside the statute of limitations.

If a bill goes to collections, you do have options. Keep yourself informed about your rights as you work with collections agencies and be sure to request all agreements in writing. You can also track your credit as you make a plan for paying down your debt. This allows you to regain control after a temporary moment of financial instability.

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    Apache is functioning normally

    Los Angeles is a beautiful place. It’s a dream vacation destination for many. And, for those that are even luckier, it’s here that they make a life for themselves. It becomes their address.

    And one great thing to take advantage of is the fact that Los Angeles is a thriving city of investment possibilities. If you’ve got some money to spare in your savings, it’s high time that you put in your investment in the right place.

    One of the best options is in real estate, with condominiums serving as an accessible point of entry. If that’s something that appeals to you, we’ve rounded up some of the benefits of investing in Los Angeles condos:

    1. You’re investing in a tangible asset

    When you’re investing in a condominium, you’re investing in a tangible asset. This, in itself, is already an advantage. When you’re buying a tangible asset, you’re investing in an income property. This means that you’re going to earn from it.

    In the world of investments, no market is ever secure. Not even Los Angeles. There’s no one industry in this world that’s a hundred percent safe from a possible collapse.

    If you don’t have a tangible asset, when the market collapses, you have nothing to bring with you. In this case, your takeaway is that you have a physical property to own.

    Hence, you don’t stand to lose as much. You can sell this property, you can have it rented out, you can do anything with it. It’s one of the most secure investments that you’ll ever have in this lifetime.

    2. You have a property that’s going to appreciate in value

    When you invest in other things such as cars, for instance, they depreciate. Even when you re-sell it, later on, the resale value will always be lower than that of your purchase price. Hence, you’re losing money.

    With real estate, you have an asset that’s appreciating. Particularly so with condominiums in Los Angeles. Because of its attractive location, it’s one asset that will constantly be in high demand. As a result, the value of said asset will also rise as properties in high-demand markets are likely to appreciate considerably over time.

    3. You’re investing in a relatively stable market

    As mentioned above, no market or industry is ever one hundred percent safe. Yet some are more reliable than others, one of them being the real estate industry.

    That’s what makes it a good place to consider investing your hard-earned money in. In comparison, for instance, with stocks, real estate is less volatile.

    There’s more stability because the demand for real estate is steady and rising. This means that by investing in a condominium unit in Los Angeles, you’re putting yourself (and your savings) at a lesser risk.

    4. You’re protected against inflation

    If you’re going to use your investments for business purposes, you don’t have to worry about inflation.

    When inflation goes up, then the price of rent goes higher. You’re not directly affected by this. You’re earning more when you have a valid ground to raise the price of your condominium rental.

    While this may mean that you have to market your property more to possible homeowners, this wouldn’t be that difficult in Los Angeles.

    If you’re putting your unit up for short-term rental, know that tourists are regularly coming into Los Angeles. If you’re up for longer-term rental, then know there are also individuals coming into Los Angeles looking for that.

    Think, students, and young professionals. Despite the rising price in rentals, you’re still going to have a steady market demand.

    5. You have a chance to earn a regular income

    Rentals will always be in demand. Because people are always looking for homes and apartments to live in. Especially in a hustling and bustling city like Los Angeles.

    Whether you’ve only got one condominium, or ten, you have a chance to earn a regular income. And, this income is passive. Even when you’re out and about with your day job, you’re still earning rent. That’s extra income coming into your account. Without having to do much extra work physically on your part. 

    6. You’re leaving an investment legacy to the future generations

    No one stays in this world forever. One day, when your time comes, what have you got to leave for your children?

    Rather than leaving assets that don’t do the future generations any good, with a condominium, they can do something with it. It’s a gift to your children that can also help them earn an extra income on the side of their jobs.

    Should they decide not to have it rented out, they have an asset to keep for themselves.

    Investing in a condominium, or owning any other property in general, can be overwhelming. Especially if this is going to be your first time.

    But it’s going to be a worthwhile effort. You can make no mistake in investing in real property, especially when you do it with care, study, and caution.

    Los Angeles, for instance, is an excellent market to penetrate. Because houses and apartments are a commodity, investing in a condominium unit is set to bring advantages that make every dollar spent worth it.

    More helpful tips

    Should You Become a Landlord? Most Important Things to Consider Before Making the Jump
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    Source: fancypantshomes.com

    Apache is functioning normally

    In most cases, a financial plan is not entirely complete without life insurance. This is because the proceeds from a life insurance policy can help to ensure that your survivors can carry on financially in case the unexpected occurs. These funds can be used – income tax-free – for any number of things, such as paying off massive debts, paying for the funeral and other final expenses, ensuring future college education funds, and making sure that monthly bills can continue to be paid.

    When you are searching for the best life insurance policy for your needs, it is important to make sure that you are going with the right type and amount of coverage. It is also important that you review the insurance company you are considering buying your policy through to determine whether it is financially stable, and that it has a positive reputation for paying out its policy holder claims. One company that meets these criteria is Nationwide Insurance Company.

    The History of Nationwide Life Insurance Company

    Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company and its affiliated companies make up a group of large U.S. insurance and financial services companies. The company was initially founded more than 90 years ago, and it has grown and expanded throughout the years.

    This financial and insurance entity offers a broad range of products and services that can help clients with growing and protect wealth, as well as the people and things that are important to them.

    The company not only has a focus on assisting its clients but is also charity minded. Just some of the entities that have been helped by Nationwide’s donations, as well as employee volunteerism, include Feeding America, and the American Red Cross. Nationwide is headquartered in Columbus, Ohio.

    Nationwide Life Insurance Review

    Nationwide has become a familiar name across the U.S., due in part to its famous advertising jingle, “Nationwide is on your side.” The company has featured various celebrities in its ad campaigns, such as Peyton Manning.

    The long term financial goals of Nationwide have remained the same since the company’s inception – to create value for its members and its business partners. As of year-end 2015, Nationwide had approximately $26 billion in operating revenue. It is listed as a Fortune 100 company, and it consistently receives high ratings and rankings from the major ratings agencies.

    Insurer Ratings and Better Business Bureau (BBB) Grade

    Due to its stable financial footing, Nationwide has obtained high ratings from the insurer ratings agencies. These include an A+ from A.M. Best Company, an A+ from Standard & Poor’s, and an A1 from Moody’s Investor Services.

    Also, Nationwide has been an accredited company through the Better Business Bureau (BBB) ever since September 1, 1955. The company has received a grade of A+ from the BBB (on an overall grade scale of A+ to F).

    Within the last three years, Nationwide Insurance has cleared a total of 377 customer complaints via the Better Business Bureau, of which 98 were closed within the past 12 months. Of these total 377 complaints, 258 had to do with problems with the company’s products and/or services, 102 were in regard to billing and/or collection issues, 13 were in relation to advertising and/or sales issues, 3 had to do with delivery issues, and the remaining one was with regard to guaranteeing / warranty issues.

    Life Insurance Coverage Offered Through Nationwide Life Insurance Company

    Nationwide offers an extensive list of different life insurance policies and options to choose from. This can be extremely beneficial to the company’s customers, as they can determine which plan works the best for them – and they may also be able to change that plan as their needs change over time.

    Life insurance policies from Nationwide include term and permanent options. With term life insurance, there is death benefit only protection, without any cash value or savings build up. Because of this, term life insurance can often be much more affordable than a comparable permanent insurance policy.

    Term life insurance protects for a set period, such as ten years, 15 years, 20 years, or even 30 years. Nationwide offers the YourLife Guaranteed Level Term plan. With this policy, the death benefit and the premium due will remain level throughout the entire policy period.

    There are also several free riders that may be added to this policy to more closely “customize” the coverage to meet an insured’s needs. These include the following:

    • Accelerated Death Benefit Rider
    • Children’s Term Insurance Rider
    • Premium Waiver Rider
    • Spouse Rider

    Nationwide also offers a full line of permanent life insurance policy options. With permanent life insurance, there is a death benefit, as well as a cash value or investment component that is attached to the policy. Often, permanent life insurance is used for other financial goals that are in addition to protecting loved ones through the death benefit proceeds.

    For example, because the funds that are in the cash component are allowed to grow tax deferred, this money can increase exponentially over time. It can then be either withdrawn or borrowed against for any reason, such as paying off debts, supplementing retirement income, or even for buying a new car or taking a vacation.

    Several types of permanent life insurance coverage are offered by Nationwide. These include whole life, universal life, and variable life insurance. Whole life is the most basic form of permanent life insurance. Here, the death benefit and the premium will typically remain fixed – and the policy will stay in force for the remainder of the insured’s lifetime – provided that the premium is paid.

    Nationwide offers the YourLife Whole Life insurance policy. This plan provides numerous benefits, including:

    • Permanent life insurance protection
    • Predictable fixed premium amount
    • The ability to further customize the plan with riders (for an additional amount of premium)
    • Guaranteed cash value
    • Guaranteed death benefit
    • Access to the funds in the cash value component
    • Income tax-free death benefits

    There are two premium payment options on this plan. With the WL-100 option, the premium will be paid on a regular basis and will stop when the insured turns age 100. Alternatively, with the 20-pay WL, the premium will remain the same until the policy is paid-up after 20 years.

    This policy also has the following riders:

    • Accelerated Death Benefit Rider
    • Children’s Term Insurance Rider
    • Accidental Death Benefit Rider
    • Premium Waiver Rider

    Nationwide offers other permanent forms of life insurance, too, including Universal Life Insurance. Universal life insurance is more flexible than whole life, as the policy holder can alter the premium (based on certain guidelines) regarding due date and the amount.

    Universal life insurance could be a good option for either individuals or business owners, depending on their needs. For instance, this type of coverage can be a viable option for those who wish to leave a legacy to loved ones. It can also help small business owners with their continuation planning.

    There are some universal life insurance policies offered through Nationwide. These include both regular universal life insurance coverage, as well as indexed universal life. With an indexed universal life insurance policy, the return on the cash value is based on an underlying market index, such as the S&P 500. When the underlying index performs well, the policy’s cash value is credited with a return – typically up to a set cap. But, if the underlying index shows negatively in each period, then the policy holder’s principal does not lose value. Rather, it is just simply credited with a 0%.

    The universal life insurance policies that are offered through Nationwide include the following:

    • Nationwide YourLife Indexed UL Accumulator
    • Nationwide YourLife Indexed UL Protector
    • Nationwide YourLife Indexed UL
    • Nationwide YourLife SUL ll
    • Nationwide YourLife Current Assumption UL
    • Nationwide YourLife No-Lapse Guarantee Ul

    The company also offers several options for variable universal life insurance. With this type of life insurance policy, there is death benefit protection, as well as an investment component where the funds can grow, based on the performance of underlying investments. With variable universal life, the policy may be used for providing coverage, as well as for many other financial planning needs, such as supplementing retirement planning solutions and business planning solutions, education funding, or long-term care payment requirements.

    It is important to note that with variable universal life insurance, the underlying investments may move up or down. So, while there is the opportunity for substantial gains, there may also be risk involved.

    With Nationwide, there are three variable universal life insurance policy options to choose from, including the:

    • Nationwide YourLife Protection VUL
    • Nationwide YourLife Accumulation
    • Nationwide YourLife Survivorship VUL

    Other Products and Services Available

    In addition to life insurance coverage, Nationwide also offers many goods and services. These include retirement annuities, mutual funds, and retirement plans that can help businesses and their employees to save for the future and protect their investments.

    Today, with life expectancies getting longer, one of the key worries that is on the minds of retirees and those who are preparing for retirement is that of running out of money. An annuity can help to reduce these fears, as it can offer a guaranteed lifetime income – regardless of how long you need it. Nationwide offers a full suite of annuity products, including fixed and variable, as well as market value adjusted. Clients may also choose to purchase an immediate annuity – where income can start right away – or a deferred annuity, where income is paid out at a time in the future.

    Mutual funds can help clients to achieve their financial goals via a diverse set of investment options. Nationwide offers many of their mutual funds, which are focused on a variety of objectives, such as growth, aggressive growth, growth and income, and conservative.

    For businesses, Nationwide provides some different retirement savings options. These include 401(k) plans, 403(b) plans, and 457 plans. So, depending on the type of business, a plan can be set up that most closely fits the goals of the company and its employees.

    Also, provided by Nationwide for businesses is key person insurance, also commonly referred to as key man insurance and keyman life insurance, it is an important form of business insurance. … An employer may take out a key person insurance policy on the life or health of any employee whose knowledge, work, or overall contribution is considered uniquely valuable to the company.

    How to Get the Best Premium Rates on Life Insurance Coverage

    If you are seeking the best premium rates on life insurance coverage through Nationwide – or through any top rated life insurance company – it is recommended that rather than searching with just one, single company, you instead work with an independent life insurance agency or brokerage that can provide you with details on many different policies, companies, and prices. That way, you can determine which will be the best for you.

    When you are ready to shop and compare the right life insurance for you, we can help. We work with many of the top life insurers in the industry today, providing you with the information that you require for making a sound buying decision. We can do this all from your computer, and without you having to meet in person with a live insurance agent. If you are ready to proceed, then all you have to do is just simply fill out our quote form.

    We understand that choosing the very best life insurance option for you can be somewhat challenging. There are many different options to pick from, and you want to be sure that you are moving in the right direction. But we can walk you through the entire process. So, contact us today – we’re here to help.

    Source: goodfinancialcents.com

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    Should You Become an Authorized User? – MintLife Blog

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    establish credit history, consider becoming an authorized user and building your credit in other ways, like getting a secured credit card.

    What Is an Authorized User? 

    An authorized user is someone who can make purchases on your credit card but isn’t legally obligated to pay the balance. It’s easy to sign someone up as an authorized user online or over the phone with a few pieces of information like their address, name, and birth date. You can order a separate card or have them use your credit card. You can have several authorized users on a single credit card, usually up to five. If the person is under 18, they can still usually be an authorized user on a parent or guardian’s account.

    You get some privileges as an authorized user, but not the same ones as the cardholder. You can make purchases, find the available balance, and make payments. You can also report a missing card and dispute a fraudulent charge. Authorized users aren’t able to make changes to the account, though. For instance, they can’t close the account, add another user, or change the address.

    Authorized Users and Credit

    Becoming an authorized user could improve your credit score, but not always, and typically not in a drastic way. Check to see if the creditor sends authorized users’ activity to the major credit bureaus. Most do, but not all. If you’re trying to build your credit, you want to make sure being an authorized user will count toward your history.

    When you’re a user on someone’s account who has a solid history of on-time payments and low credit utilization, it can help your credit. On the flip side, if you’re connected to someone with a lower credit score or a spotty payment history, your credit might suffer. For instance, if the cardholder misses a payment, your score could be affected, because it will also be reported on your history. That’s why it’s important to select someone you trust. Choose someone who you know will pay on time and not let their balance lapse. You can even have an upfront conversation about credit history and payments before being added as an authorized user to their credit card.

    Just because you won’t be legally responsible for your charges, you may have a different arrangement with family. For example, Asher is an authorized user on his mom’s credit card. She pays for his groceries and utilities, but he is responsible for discretionary spending like going to the movies. Still, if the authorized user like Asher refuses to pay their portion, the cardholder remains responsible for covering it. If the cardholder doesn’t pay or can’t pay the balance, it could harm you more than help you.

    Ways to Build Credit

    Besides becoming an authorized user, there are other ways to build your credit. Try a combination of different approaches to build your history and show that you’re a responsible borrower.

    • Try a rent reporting service: Put your monthly payments toward your credit history by signing up for a rent reporting service. Proof of your payments is sent to the major credit bureaus. You’ll have to pay a small fee for the service, but it’s a low-risk way to create a credit history for payments you already make.
    • Apply for a secured credit card: Most credit cards are unsecured but require an established credit history. Secured credit cards allow you to put down collateral, such as a $500 cash deposit, in case you don’t pay your bills. These cards are for those without much credit history because the deposit guarantees payment to the lender if you don’t make payments. In most cases, secured credit cards carry higher fees and interest rates than normal unsecured cards.
    • Have someone cosign on a loan: Whether you’re purchasing a vehicle or need more funds for college, having someone cosign on a loan can help build your credit. Banks and lenders will often give out small loans to those without much credit history, as long as they have a solid cosigner backing them.
    • Choose a student credit card: If you’re in college, build credit with a student card. You may be approved even with no credit history. You might have a lower credit limit, such as $500 or $1,000, but the card allows you to spend on credit and build trust with creditors.

    Practicing smart financial habits, like building your credit or having a personal budget, reaps rewards both now and in the future. Being an authorized user is one practical way to go about improving your overall financial health when done correctly. With a higher credit score and stronger finances, you can achieve bigger goals, like buying a home or saving for early retirement.

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    Source: mint.intuit.com