Wednesday, September 30, 2009

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

How Are Withdrawals From a Deferred Annuity Taxed?

By Gregory Gambone

Taxation of annuity withdrawals depends on whether the annuity is qualified or non-qualified

The Basics


There are two types of deferred annuities, and both types share some of the rules regarding taxation of withdrawals. However, there are certain tax rules that only apply to one type of deferred annuity or another, and this is the reason for confusion regarding how and when taxes are due on annuity distributions.

The two types of annuities are qualified and non-qualified, and withdrawals from either of these annuity types will result in taxation, but in different amounts and under different circumstances.

Monday, September 28, 2009

Sunday, September 20, 2009

Saturday, September 19, 2009

Friday, September 18, 2009

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

What Is the Average Cost of Term Insurance?

By Gregory Gambone
Term life insurance is one of the most powerful benefits a person can purchase, especially when his need for coverage is high but his financial resources are limited. Term policies can be purchased for very little money and can provide significant benefits to healthy individuals. Families can be protected and lifestyles can be maintained with the proper amount of term life insurance.

Unfortunately, it is difficult to estimate the cost of a person's policy. Far too many factors go into determining how much someone would pay for a policy. However, it is possible to provide price points for the most common categories of people using the most common sizes of policies that are typically purchased.

Can You Get Credit From Life Insurance Policies?

By Gregory Gambone

Exercise caution when borrowing from permanent life insurance cash value

As the ability to obtain credit in the United States becomes more difficult, people are examining other avenues of financing to include many non-traditional lending sources.

One of the most common methods being used for personal microloans and smaller purchases is a withdrawal of life insurance cash values. Although not specifically intended as a source of credit or lending, the cash value account in a permanent life insurance policy may be used for purposes other than funding the life insurance contract itself.

The Role of Deposit Insurance (FDIC)

By Gregory Gambone

Here's what the FDIC is, and what it means for you

Decades ago, the currency system of the United States was backed by actual tangible deposits of gold and silver bullion. At any time, paper currency could be exchanged for an equivalent amount of metal at any federal reserve banking institution.

However, over time and as the public’s faith in the strength of the United States government increased, the number of exchanges decreased to an insignificant level. This led to the removal of the exchange rights of currency holders, and the introduction of a new potential concern; what if the banking institution holding a person’s deposits becomes insolvent?

Thursday, September 10, 2009

Life Insurance Definition of "Dependent"

By Gregory Gambone

An insurance company's definition of "dependent" may not be exactly what you think

A life insurance policy is a legal contract between the policy owner and the insurance company.  Understanding the contract in its entirety is essential for proper analysis and financial planning.

One of the common contract definitions that is often a source of confusion is that of the policy owner’s Dependents.  Far too many people are mistaken about the specific definition of a Dependent, and fail to verify the accuracy of their assumptions.

By ensuring proper comprehension of a Dependent, the owner can make educated decisions to most securely protect the entire family.

Wednesday, September 09, 2009

Lump Sum Vs. Annuity Settlements

By Gregory Gambone

Carefully consider the potential ramifications of the various annuity payout options available to you before making a decision that affects the rest of your life


Annuity payments are a very common method of transferring large sums of money to a recipient over the course of time.  These types of structured settlements are often in the best interests of both parties.

The payor is not required to produce a large lump sum of money at one time, and the payee receives the benefits of a guaranteed stream of predictable recurring payments.  Many individuals choose to have their retirement funds paid to them in the form of annuity payments; traditional pension plan payments to retired workers are a form of annuity payments.

Many lawsuit payouts are in the form of annuity payments.

Tuesday, September 08, 2009

Problems With Fixed Index Annuities

By Gregory Gambone

Know your contract to avoid purchasing a product that's not suitable

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Many retirement investors have been attracted to fixed index annuities, sometimes also referred to as equity indexed annuities.

On the surface, these retirement products sound almost too good to be true, but they are a powerful investment vehicle for moderate consumers. However, anytime a guarantee is associated with an investment account, there are bound to be significant potential complications and additional expenses.

Thursday, September 03, 2009

Can You Have More Than One Life Insurance Policy?

By Gregory Gambone

Purchasing more than one life insurance policy is actually a very common strategy

Life insurance is one of the most powerful types of insurance policies a person can own. Unfortunately, deciphering these contracts is not always easy, nor is there a readily accessible database or collection of insurance laws that encompasses every state. This has led to a high degree of misinformation and many misconceptions regarding who can purchase life insurance, and what types and amounts are permitted.

Wednesday, September 02, 2009

How Often Does the Government Make New Money?

By Gregory Gambone

How often paper bills need to be replaced depends on the denomination

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United States paper money is one of the most sought after and highly valued forms of currency in the world. Many countries outside the United States use this money as their own national standard, and almost every nation will accept U.S. dollars.

When this is combined with the fact that paper money has a limited lifespan, it becomes clear that the United States has a significant need to continue printing paper currency in extremely large amounts on a regular basis.

Tuesday, September 01, 2009

Factors Affecting the Growth of Fast Food Companies

By Gregory Gambone

Behind the burgers, fast food companies are just like any other business operation

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Countless factors may affect the success of a fast food restaurant. Everything from the specific type of establishment to the size of the building and local community demographics can have a dramatic effect on a fast food establishment.

Significant research and effort may be required to strengthen the business and increase profits.