Submit your Rss Feed Link Below

Friday, March 19, 2010

structured settlements Buyers

Personal Debt Relief - The Way It Works And How To Obtain Reliable Unsecured Debt Reduction Programs




Personal Debt Relief - The Way It Works And How To Obtain Reliable Unsecured Debt Reduction Programs   by matthiw coach


in Finance    (submitted 2010-02-11)



A financial debt settlement is primarily a method for buyers to terminate a percentage of their total unsecured debts and avert the consequences regarding bankruptcy. Due to the recently available monetary stimulus programs handed down via the Obama white house consumer debt settlements are starting to be quite financially enticing for customers. Together with the aid of a consumer debt settlement firm, consumers are erasing up to 70% on their unsecured debt throughout this particular market place.


A typical settlement is approximately 50% and the only genuine consequence is actually you will probably get a slightly lesser ranked credit history. Trading a lower credit history for knocking out greater than 50% of your unsecured credit balances could be a trade the majority of Americans are much more than willing to accept and this content will show consumers when to search for the most honest financial debt companies within the industry in the present day.


Any real credit debt settlement firm will only collect a payment based for the amount of debt they are actually able to eradicate definitely not the overall debts balance. Make positive you clearly know precisely how their payment program works but normally you ought to not have to spend a dime til they've been in a position to settle your credit debt for an suitable quantity. Just about any debt settlement firm that attempts to impose an in advance fee should be avoided. You can find lots of recognized credit debt businesses which can be performance structured and will be able to only collect a monetary fee when you are pleased with your arrangement.


Identifying a respectable and founded financial debt settlement firm is enormously critical if you want to receive the most favorable settlement. It can take time to establish relationships with most of the various creditors such as but not limited to banking companies, credit card companies, and medicinal establishments, so the set up corporations will likely be equipped to offer you higher influence while negotiating unsecured debt settlements.


If you would like to get rid of consumer debt and select a financial debt settlement service regarding debt negotiation then I have a significant piece of suggestion. Don't go directly to a individual financial debt settlement firm but instead primarily go to a credit card debt relief network that is associated with several professional debt corporations. So as to be within the debt relief network, the financial debt settlement corporations will need to demonstrate a track record of efficiently settling and reducing debt. The companies will have to also pass an ethical standards test. Proceeding with the aid of a debt relief network will be certain that that the consumer debt organization you are presented with can be a established and highly regarded organization.


To identify a legitimate credit debt settlement corporation via a top rated performing debt relief network have a look at the following url:
Free Debt Advice

About the Author


CreditCardDebtNegotiations.com is a matchmaker in the debt settlement industry. They have paired up thousands of consumers up with debt settlement companies who are most likely to get consumers the best deal.


http://www.CreditCardDebtNegotiations.com

Credit Card Debt Relief - How It Operates And How To Get Consistent Credit Card Debt Removal Firms




Credit Card Debt Relief - How It Operates And How To Get Consistent Credit Card Debt Removal Firms   by matthiw coach


in Finance    (submitted 2010-02-11)



A credit card debt settlement is known as the process for shoppers to clear away a percent of their unsecured debts and avoid many consequences of a bankruptcy proceeding. Due to the latest financial stimulus programs passed via the Obama white house unsecured debt settlements are happening to be really financially desirable for people. Together with the support of a debt settlement company, buyers are getting rid of up to 70% of the unsecured debt in this kind of market place.


A normal settlement is approximately 50% and the only actual consequence is actually that you will recieve a a bit scaled down credit history. Trading a lower credit history for cutting out over 50% of the unsecured consumer debt is usually a trade that the bulk of Us residents are much more than inclined to take and this article will present consumers when to find a few of the most genuine unsecured debt agencies in the market place currently.


A authentic personal debt settlement corporation will only collect a charge dependent on the amount of consumer debt they're actually able to wipe out certainly not the existing personal debt balance. Make for certain you clearly know precisely how their fee method works nonetheless normally you ought to not have to shell out a dollar til they are capable to settle your unsecured debt for an sufficient amount. Any personal debt settlement enterprise that attempts to request an in advance fee ought to be sidestepped. There are several established credit debt firms which have been performance structured and are likely to only collect a monetary fee as you are content with your settlement.


Choosing a proven and founded debt settlement business is highly imperative if you would like to acquire the most advantageous settlement. It requires time to make relationships with all of the big lenders including but not limited to banking institutions, credit card agencies, and medical associations, so the set up services is going to be equipped to supply customers extra leveraging when negotiating unsecured debt settlements.


If you'd like to get from consumer debt and select a consumer debt settlement firm pertaining to debt negotiation then I have a necessary piece of suggestion. Don't go right to some individual credit card debt settlement business but rather first go to a unsecured debt assistance network who is connected with multiple legit credit debt corporations. So as to end up being inside debt relief network, the financial debt settlement corporations must prove a track record of successfully settling and reducing credit card debt. The companies must also pass an ethical standards test. Proceeding by way of a debt relief network will certainly give you confidence in knowing that the credit card debt organization you are provided with is actually a proven and respected organization.


To identify a reputable consumer debt settlement company through a top performing debt relief network check out the subsequent link:
Free Debt Advice


About the Author


CreditCardDebtNegotiations.com is a matchmaker in the debt settlement industry. They have paired up thousands of consumers up with debt settlement companies who are most likely to get consumers the best deal.


http://www.CreditCardDebtNegotiations.com

Credit Debt Settlement - How It Functions And Where To Uncover Reputable Debt Reduction Programs




Credit Debt Settlement - How It Functions And Where To Uncover Reputable Debt Reduction Programs   by matthiw coach


in Finance    (submitted 2010-02-11)



A personal debt settlement can be defined as a option for indivdiuals to do away with a percentage of their total unsecured debt and keep from several consequences connected with bankruptcy. Due to the latest financial stimulus programs handed down via the Obama administration financial debt settlements are getting especially financially attractive for customers. Along with the guidance of a consumer debt settlement organization, buyers are cutting out up to 70% of their unsecured consumer debt throughout this kind of marketplace.


Typically the common settlement will be close to 50% and the only genuine consequence is that you simply will probably get a a bit a reduced credit history. Trading a reduced credit history for getting rid of greater than 50% of your unsecured credit card debt could be a trade the bulk of people are more than willing to get and this piece of writing is designed to display consumers where to discover the most respectable unsecured debt organizations across the industry currently.


A proven unsecured debt settlement firm will only collect a cost centered in the amount of credit debt they're actually able to do away with definitely not the entire consumer debt balance. Make certain that you clearly know precisely how their fee method performs nonetheless usually you should not need to pay a cent til they're in a position to settle your financial debt for an acceptable amount. Any kind of credit debt settlement corporation which will try to request an upfront charge should be definitely avoided. You will find lots of set up personal debt organizations which can be performance structured and will definately only collect a charge whenever you are content with your arrangement.


Discovering a reputable and well-known credit card debt settlement organization will be highly necessary in order for you to receive the most beneficial settlement. It usually takes time to assemble relationships with most of the various creditors such as financial institutions, credit card firms, and medicinal establishments, therefore the set up organizations will probably be capable to produce somebody far more leveraging when negotiating credit card debt settlements.


If you would like to get out of credit debt and choose a debt settlement firm for debt negotiation then I have a critical piece of information. Don't proceed direct to a particular consumer debt settlement business but preferably to begin with go to a debt relief network that is connected with many legitimate credit card debt organizations. So as to end up being in the debt relief network, the credit card debt settlement companies have to demonstrate a track record of efficiently settling and removing personal debt. The companies will need to also pass an ethical standards test. Proceeding with the aid of a debt relief network will make sure the unsecured debt business that you are supplied with is a reputable and well known company.


To track down a authentic consumer debt settlement corporation by way of a leading performing debt relief network have a look at the following website link:
Free Debt Advice

About the Author


freedebtsettlementsolutions.com is a matchmaker in the debt settlement industry. They have paired up thousands of consumers up with debt settlement companies who are most likely to get consumers the best deal.


http://www.freedebtsettlementsolutions.com

Debt Settlement - How It Functions And Where To Obtain Reputable Credit Card Debt Relief Assistance




Debt Settlement - How It Functions And Where To Obtain Reputable Credit Card Debt Relief Assistance   by matthiw coach


in Finance    (submitted 2010-02-11)



A credit debt settlement is known as the approach for shoppers to wipe out a percent of their unsecured financial debt and steer clear of many consequences involving bankruptcy. Due to the latest monetary stimulus packages passed from the Obama white house financial debt settlements are transforming into especially financially appealing for customers. Together with the guidance of a credit card debt settlement organization, buyers are eradicating up to 70% on their unsecured credit debt throughout this kind of market.


Typically the common settlement will be about 50% and the only genuine consequence is that you just probably will recieve a slightly lesser ranked credit. Accepting a lesser ranked credit ratings for doing away with over 50% of your unsecured consumer debt is usually a trade that the majority of consumers are a lot more than inclined to take and this piece of writing is designed to display consumers when to search for essentially the most honest credit card debt companies around the marketplace these days.


A real unsecured debt settlement organization will only collect a cost dependent by the level of debts they are able clear away certainly not the whole personal debt balance. Make absoluetly certain you clearly be aware of how their bill method functions nonetheless usually you should not need to shell out a dime til they've been able to settle your credit card debt for an appropriate amount. Any kind of credit card debt settlement enterprise that tries to demand an upfront cost must be definitely avoided. You will find plenty of established credit card debt corporations which have been performance structured and are going to only collect a monetary fee when you are satisfied with your arrangement.


Identifying a legit and founded credit debt settlement business is incredibly important in order to get the most beneficial settlement. It involves time to put together relationships with each of the various creditors which includes banking institutions, credit card agencies, and medical associations, which means that the set up corporations is normally able to supply an individual added leveraging whenever negotiating financial debt settlements.


If you'd like to get from credit card debt and select a consumer debt settlement business regarding debt negotiation then I have a significant piece of guidance. Don't move right to some specific credit card debt settlement company but instead first go to a debt assistance network that is affiliated with a lot of proven personal debt corporations. In order to end up being in the debt relief network, the unsecured debt settlement corporations will have to demonstrate a track record of effectively settling and removing debt. All the companies have to also pass an ethical standards test. Proceeding by a debt relief network is going to assure the unsecured debt business that you are provided with is a reputable and highly regarded company.


To choose a authentic consumer debt settlement company through a leading performing debt relief network look at the following url:
Free Debt Advice

About the Author


freedebtsettlementadvice.com is a matchmaker in the debt settlement industry. They have paired up thousands of consumers up with debt settlement companies who are most likely to get consumers the best deal.


http://www.freedebtsettlementadvice.com

Debt Relief - How It Operates And How To Uncover Consistent Debt Relief Firms




Debt Relief - How It Operates And How To Uncover Consistent Debt Relief Firms   by matthiw coach


in Finance    (submitted 2010-02-10)



A credit card debt settlement can be defined as a process for consumers to do away with a percentage of their unsecured loans and stay away from several consequences regarding personal bankruptcy. Due to the recently available monetary stimulus packages passed by the Obama administration debt settlements are getting very financially enticing for shoppers. Using the assistance of a consumer debt settlement business, buyers are wiping out up to 70% on their unsecured financial debt throughout this kind of marketplace.


The normal settlement is close to 50% and the only substantial consequence is you will probably have a a bit a reduced credit history. Trading a lesser credit ratings for eliminating over 50% of your unsecured financial debt can be a trade the majority of consumers are more than ready to take and this piece of writing is designed to show consumers when to find some of the most established debt organizations in the industry these days.


A genuine personal debt settlement firm will only collect a cost based for the quantity of credit card debt they are actually able to remove not ever the total credit debt balance. Make sure you clearly understand how their fee process functions though generally you ought to not need to shell out a cent til they can be able to settle your credit card debt for an acceptable quantity. Any kind of debt settlement business that will try to demand an upfront fee needs to be definitely avoided. You will find numerous set up credit debt organizations which have been performance structured and will be able to only collect a charge whenever you are pleased with your arrangement.


Seeking out a legit and founded financial debt settlement business will be extremely vital if you would like to get the most favorable settlement. It requires time to grow relationships with the many major creditors consisting of financial institutions, credit card agencies, and healthcare institutions, consequently the established services are going to be in a position to present customers added leveraging whenever negotiating personal debt settlements.


When you need to get rid of unsecured debt and employ the service of a consumer debt settlement corporation regarding debt negotiation then I have a crucial piece of guidance. Do not go right to a specific unsecured debt settlement firm but rather to start with go to a unsecured debt relief network who is associated with a number of legitimate consumer debt firms. So that you can end up being within the debt relief network, the unsecured debt settlement organizations will need to demonstrate a track record of efficiently settling and eliminating financial debt. The companies have to additionally pass an ethical standards test. Proceeding by way of a debt relief network is going to verify the consumer debt company you happen to be offered with is really a reliable and well known organization.


To select a legitimate consumer debt settlement firm through a top performing debt relief network take a look at the following link:
Free Debt Advice




About the Author


CreditCardDebtNegotiations.com is a matchmaker in the debt settlement industry. They have paired up thousands of consumers up with debt settlement companies who are most likely to get consumers the best deal.


http://www.CreditCardDebtNegotiations.com

Magic Formula Stock Review: Vector Group (VGR)




Magic Formula Stock Review: Vector Group (VGR)   by MagicDiligence.com


in Investment / Stocks and Bonds    (submitted 2010-01-07)



Vector Group is structured as a holding company, but the company's business is selling discount cigarette brands in the United States. Their two largest brands are Grand Prix (29% of volume) and Liggett Select (23%), and the company also sells Pyramid, Eve, and USA. Vector Group also owns a 50% stake in Douglas Elliman, a realtor in the New York metropolitan area, but real estate is such a small contributor to operating earnings that it can basically be ignored for the purposes of analysis here.


There are few bullish arguments on the stock, but let's address them anyway. First, Vector occupies probably the most attractive niche of the cigarette business: the discount end. Discount cigarettes have been about the only sector of this market to experience volume growth in the last decade, as premium brands are being priced out of the range of lower income smokers. Also, the 1998 litigation settlements with 46 states require only the 3 largest cigarette makers to pay the costs. Vector's Liggett Group is 5th, and as a byproduct has gained a valuable cost advantage against bigger makers like Altria (MO) and RJ Reynolds (RAI). The "big boys" are handcuffed by these costs if they decide to compete in the deep discount cigarette market, a significant competitive advantage for Vector Group.


The second positive is the dividend. Vector Group currently pays a massive 11.4% yield, and they have maintained such a high payout for several years now. It is unlikely that this dividend is sustainable over a long-term period, as last year it represented 122% of free cash flow. Management has been funding it with debt, a bad idea (I'll discuss financial health later). However, I believe it is more likely than not that a one-year Magic Formula investor would probably be able to collect the full yield, as Vector has been able to sustain operating profits even against some difficult challenges. Dividend investors with a long-term horizon would want to steer clear, though... this is not a yield that is going to hold, and it certainly will not go up over the long term.


So that's the case for the stock... now let's get to the negatives, which dwarf the positives, keep Vector Group far out of the MagicDiligence Top Buys portfolio, and in fact should keep MFI investors out of the stock. First and foremost is the government's shadow war on smoking. Having mostly failed in direct litigation in the 1990's, federal and state governments are now using a more effective stick: excise taxes. In April of this year, the federal excise tax on a carton of cigarettes was raised from $3.90 to $10.07, a crippling 158% increase. Some states tack on as much as an additional $4/carton. In response, Vector had to increase the wholesale price of their cartons by an average of about $7.50. As a result, revenues have spiked significantly (over 60%), but gross margins have plummeted from the low 40% range to the mid-20's. The net effect has been almost break-even - operating profits have been about flat against pre-increase levels.


The problem, though, is the effect going forward. Higher excise taxes hurt discount brands more than premium ones like Marlboro, as discount customers buy based almost solely on price, while premium brands enjoy customer loyalty and are less price-sensitive. When discount cigarettes get more expensive, it is likely that the low-income buyers they attract will buy fewer packs, or look to alternatives like smokeless tobacco. Vector's volume numbers bear this out: last quarter, Liggett Select suffered a 31% decrease in unit volume, while Grand Prix fell 13%. This is quite the conundrum for Vector, as all of their sales are inside the U.S., and cigarette volume growth (and tax freedom) is almost exclusively overseas.


There are other reasons not to like Vector. The balance sheet is aggressive: about $355 million of debt vs. $300 million in cash, with another $142 million in convertible debt derivatives. Interest is covered by operating earnings just 2 times over, well below the 5 times MagicDiligence likes to see as an absolute minimum. As previously mentioned, free cash flow is not sufficient to service the dividend, yet alone debt obligations. Debt and dividend are being financed with... debt. When you combine shaky financial footing with a very unfavorable regulatory environment, it is a recipe for trouble.


Finally, the company is just ugly to analyze. I count no less then 16 non-operating line items in the income statement (for the past 5 years), with a history of restructuring, unconsolidated side-businesses, and confusing financing. Vector does a bizarre 105:100 stock dividend every year. It engages in the completely unrelated business of residential real estate brokering. In short, it is a difficult business to fully understand, and the ability to understand a business is Warren Buffett's #1 requirement for an investment.


With all of these negatives, MagicDiligence recommends MFI investors steer clear of Vector Group and look elsewhere.

About the Author


MagicDiligence.com is a site dedicated to researching and recommending only the best stocks on Joel Greenblatt's Magic Formula Investing screen. Come see our Top Buy picks for FREE!

A Good Reason Not to Sell Your Structured Settlement in 2009




A Good Reason Not to Sell Your Structured Settlement in 2009   by Jan Smith


in Finance    (submitted 2009-12-10)



Christmas is upon us once again and this means we all spend money on our credit cards to pay for Christmas presents for our loved ones. If you are considering selling a structured settlement to alleviate some or all of this debt before or just after Christmas, then it could be a very good idea to first do some very serious due diligence on the state of the market for structured settlements.


This time of year is always one of the biggest expenses in a family and it always seems to be the hardest one to curtail. But if you sell your settlement agreement or term life insurance policy to cover all or some of this debt it could be the most expensive Christmas in your history. Why? Because it's a buyers market at this time of the year and because our world economy is still in a state of uncertainty.


If you absolutely, positively must sell your payout agreement or insurance policy then you need to be aware of some facts:


As Ben Bernanke, the Chairman of the US Federal Reserve, took pains to point out in his speech earlier this December 2009, the financial crises is not ended yet despite some of the 'talking up' from financial institutions. Ask yourself why are the banks and financial institutions 'talking up' the economy? Could it be because they are wanting to sell more of their investment products?


I am not advocating remotely that we should all be totally negative about our financial situations but I am advocating for some real honesty out of our Governments, financial institutions, and media. If you were to sell your financial asset under these conditions then you are likely to have very little negotiating power for the best deal you could possibly negotiate and these assets can only be sold once.


With so many other settlement holders also wanting to sell their agreed settlements for similar reasons, it means the finite number of buyers are getting swamped with offers to sell. When there is a plentiful supply of product available the price always goes down and you may need to seriously consider if this is the best market for you to sell your settlement asset in.


If you absolutely positively don't have to sell your structured settlement in 2009 and can wait and see where the financial markets are heading in 2010 you could sell closer to the real value of your settlement agreement.


About the Author


Before you sell structured settlementsto the first buyer you need to be sure you are getting the best deal possible because you can only sell it once. Go to www.sell-structured-settlement.org today for more information to be sure you are not 'short-changing' yourself and your family

Things to Avoid When You Sell Structured Settlements




Things to Avoid When You Sell Structured Settlements   by Woodbridge Settlement Funding


in Finance / PersonalFinance    (submitted 2009-08-07)



When it is time to sell structured settlements, choosing a structured settlement buyer is not easy. All of them seem to promise the same thing: immediate cash. Looking past the sales pitch, you'll find that not all buyers are equal. Here is a list of things to watch out for when choosing a structured settlement buyer.



1. Structured Settlement Buyers Who Promise Unrealistically Fast Results


Don't be fooled by these empty promises when you sell structured settlements. The speed of the process is at the mercy of court approval that no one could expedite. The average time for court approval is 90 days, with some states being quicker (45 days at the very least); so beware of companies claiming that they can process your purchase in less time. The only thing that will speed up your processing is efficient, accurate preparation and application.


2. Structured Settlement Buyers Who Offer Poor Support


Avoid buyers who offer just the bare minimum support and information needed for the transaction. Choose the most helpful buyer you can find, the kind that provides good customer service with all aspects of the transaction. Going with a buyer who is willing to work closely with you prevents errors in your court petition - errors that will lead to the denial of your petition to sell structured settlements.


3. Inexperienced Settlement Buyers


Though they may have your best interests at heart, younger companies often do not have the sufficient experience to convert your structured settlement into the best deal you could hope for. It is still best to choose an industry leader with years of experience and a long list of satisfied clients under their belt.


4. Settlement Buyers Who Keep Information from You


Choose a structured settlement buyer who is transparent with their actions. Companies who believe that they are entitled to non-disclosure are probably trying to hide hidden fees whereas an honest buyer will be upfront with all costs and rates pertinent to your transaction to sell structured settlements.


After all is said and done, what you want is someone who is both ethical and dedicated to giving you a fair deal; professionals who are sincerely concerned with your best interests. Structured settlement factoring is an expensive transaction and financial last resort for someone with significant financial need. If you are unable to find an alternative, at least find a buyer worthy of your trust.

About the Author


Visit www.woodbridgeinvestments.com for more information on selling structured settlements and lottery winnings.

Tips on Selling a Structured Settlement




Tips on Selling a Structured Settlement   by John Weimer, CFA


in Finance / PersonalFinance    (submitted 2009-07-29)



If you watch any TV or surf the internet, you probably have seen numerous advertisements from companies wanting to purchase your structured settlement or annuity. If you have a structured settlement or annuity to sell, it might make sense to explore this option if you need the cash immediately. The ads sounds great, but you should be aware of the potential draw backs and issues concerning selling a structured settlement.


Some issues concerning the sale of a structured settlement include:


1. Roughly two thirds of states have laws that restrict or limit the sale of structured settlements. Most of these laws were enacted to protect the consumer and ensure the original intent of the settlement will benefit the holder.
2. The sale of a structured settlement generally must be approved by the court which has legal costs and implications.
3. Some insurance companies who back the structured settlement through an annuity limit or prohibit the sale or transfer. Or there may be additional costs imposed by the insurance company.
4. Buyers of structured settlements are in business to make money. You should be aware that the amount you receive in a lump sum with be greatly discounted. The amount of the discount will depend on the amount of the settlement, time remaining, interest rates, discount rate, and many other factors. For this reason, you should obtain multiple quotes.
5. Do forget amount the potential tax implications of receiving a lump sum versus annual payments.


For more information about selling your structured settlement, please go to MyNoteMarket.com


* Please consult a lawyer, licensed insurance agent, securities broker, or other financial professional for advice regarding your personal situation.


About the Author


Mr. Weimer has 20 years of investment and insurance experience. He has worked with multi-national firms as well as small start-up companies. He currently runs his own PegasusPolo Ventures, LLC and consults.

Five Tips When Selling Your Structured Settlement




Five Tips When Selling Your Structured Settlement   by Woodbridge Investments


in Finance / PersonalFinance    (submitted 2009-07-01)



You may have received structured settlement payments through personal injury or workers' compensation claims. You may be wondering if you should try to sell your settlement payments in exchange for a lump sum of cash. Be aware, however, that despite the claims of advertisers, the selling your structured settlement may not always be possible - and even if it is possible, it may not be an economically wise decision. There are some benefits to selling structured settlements, but also some hidden costs of which you should be aware.




Tip #1: Make a Wise Settlement Decision from the Beginning


If you have the option, it is always best to make a decision about receiving structured settlement payments from the start. You may, from the beginning, choose to press for a lump sum payment vs. periodic payments. This is not just black and white either - you may negotiate for a combination agreement. You may want to get a smaller lump sum plus periodic payments, or decide that you will need a lump sum at a future date. You may want to consult with a tax adviser and see what arrangement makes the most sense from a tax perspective. If you are in this stage of the settlement, remember: now is your best time to decide. Should you decide to sell your structured settlement at a future date, you will be losing a percentage of your money to companies that buy those structured settlement payments.


Tip #2: Watch Out for the Tax Man


Although you may be considering selling your structured settlement, it is important to consider that it was probably constructured from the beginning to provide you with significant tax advantages. As a result, you may be in for an unpleasant surprise if you decide to receive a lump sum payment. Check with a competent tax adviser to see what the ramifications are in your situation.


Tip #3: Beware of Hidden Restrictions on Selling Structured Settlements


Many people do not realize that federal regulations can limit and restrict the sale of structured settlements. In addition, approximately 60% of the states have some laws on the books which restrict the sale of structured settlements. Find out which laws apply to your situation. You may have to obtain court approval for the sale, and the process of transferring settlement payments to a buyer may be highly regulated by your state. Also, if your structured settlement was issued by an insurance company, watch out for hidden clauses. They may state that payments cannot be sold to another party.


Tip #4: Don't Take the First Offer You Get


This seems like common sense, but many people attempting to sell structured settlements are excited by the prospect of receiving a huge lump sum of cash. But it pays to shop around. Even if your first offer seems excellent, get quotes from at least 2-3 other buyers of structured settlements to see if the first offer can be topped. Do your research and make sure you are dealing with a reputable buyer of structured settlements. If one buyer's offer is way better than the others, be alert - if it seems too good to be true, it just might be.


Tip #5: Get a Good Lawyer


When dealing with such a large amount of money, consulting with a lawyer can pay for itself many times over. A lawyer experienced in dealing with settlements can tell you if your buyer's offer is reasonable, as well as if the terms of the purchase agreement are right for your situation. He or she can also protect your rights, in case any of the parties in the transaction are not cooperating or sending payments according to the agreed contract.


About the Author


Woodbridge Investments LLC buy lottery winnings, jackpots, structured settlements, annuities, mortgages and deeds of trusts.

Life Settlement with Opulen Capital: Which Life Settlement Is For You?




Life Settlement with Opulen Capital: Which Life Settlement Is For You?    by Travis Rickman


in Finance / PersonalFinance    (submitted 2009-05-28)



For the life settlement investor, buying a life settlement solution is not the same across the board. In fact, there are many variations on the life settlements agreement theme, some of which are best avoided. What used to be a traditional market has, since 2004, morphed into a plethora of choices for the investor, requiring many investors to take a refresher course in life settlements.


Before 2004, all of the life settlements market was made up of traditional life settlement arrangements; policies that matured and have existed beyond the two-year contestability period for a life settlement agreement. Now hybrids are driving more sellers into the market and creating a more complex market. Some of the newer life settlement solutions are:


Premium Financed Life Settlements. These are life insurance policies issued using non-recourse (or hybrid) financing for premium payments during the contestability period. Designed exclusively for sale in the life settlements market, these life settlement agreements are now the dominant life settlement solution in the market. Targeting seniors who may need the extra cash, these life settlement deals offer the policy holder two years of risk-free, premium-free coverage in exchange for a profit on the policy's future sale. Typically, these life insurance policies have less value than the traditional life settlement agreements and may carry interest tax penalties.


Investor Owned Traditional Life Settlements. Institutional investors purchased these policies under the direction of life settlement brokers or providers. Because most investors were supplied with inaccurate life expectancy data for these life settlements, most of these life settlement solutions hold little value.


Investor Owned Premium Financed Life Settlements. With this type of life settlement, the investors provide premium financing for the underlying policies. Like the investor owned traditional life settlements, life expectancy rates with these can also be inaccurate, so the buyer market for these life settlement solutions is dwindling. Thanks to the inaccuracies, many of these policies are worth much less than originally expected and as new projected policy values are calculated, lenders have been forced to foreclose, thus causing buyers to lose their original investments.


Investor and Stranger Owned Life Settlements (STOLI). These life settlement arrangements have done significant damage to the life settlements market and have generated a negative image of life settlements solutions. Blatantly structured for resale, the STOLI products have been the cause of numerous litigious activity. Despite being billed as transparent transactions, most were purchased during the policy's contestability period and were bought and controlled as irrevocable living trusts. Some buyers have even attempted to market such arrangements as traditional life settlements.


Because we specialize in life settlements, we at Opulen Capital can help investors and sellers determine the best life settlement solution for their particular needs. Before investing or selling, ask. One of our life settlement specialists will walk you through the options available to you and help you choose a life settlement solution that fits.


Located in La Jolla, California, Opulen Capital is a specialized financial services firm focusing on products and services tailored for senior citizens. Opulen Capital is one of the leading firms offering Life Settlement opportunities for high net worth clientele. We leverage unrivaled experience and exclusive relationships in the life settlement marketplace to structure, obtain, and sell life insurance products to maximize cash profits for our valued clients. Opulen Capital's mission is to continue to provide the best solutions for our clients through the highest level of integrity and service. For more information, visit our website at http://www.OpulenCapital.com or call Opulen at 877-OPULEN-1 (877-678-5361)

About the Author


Travis Rickman is the Director of Marketing for Opulen Capital. Opulen Capital is a specialized financial services company focused on Life Settlements. A Life Settlement transaction involves the resale of an unwanted or unaffordable Life Insurance policy to a institutional investor for 2-3 times the cash invested into the policy. For more information, please visit http://www.opulencapital.com

Can I sell my structured settlement payments?




Can I sell my structured settlement payments?   by G. Wainwright


in Finance / PersonalFinance    (submitted 2009-03-04)



It may be possible for to sell your structured settlement payments. To find if you are able to sell the future payments from your structured settlement, a financial professional or qualified broker would need to sit down and review your settlement and release documents, as well as your annuity policy documents.


When reading your settlement documents, there may be a line which says the settlement payments are 'non-assignable'. This is not as it sounds. In a lot of cases, it will not hinder your efforts to sell all or a portion of your structured settlement payments. The 2002 federal law that originally created the framework for selling structured settlement payments will now tell you that the "non-assignable" language should be ignored as it is no longer valid.



As the seller, having an attorney during the process of selling your structured settlement payments is a good idea. By having a legal professional, they will be able to answer your questions and protect your interests. This is why having an attorney is always recommended. You may be responsible for any fees for your attorney. In certain states, they will require that you consult an attorney for the duration of the process.


The payment of any court costs as well as the fees for your attorney can be paid by you or the buyer.


Some buyers will not pay for your attorney and will expect you to pay these costs. However, some buyers will pay these costs. So when you are comparing the quotes you have received from interested buyers, you need to check and find out if you or they will pay the court costs and the fees for the attorney who presents your request in court. A quote may look better at first until you find out that you have to pay these additional costs. It is also worth knowing that some buyers will pay all costs even if in the worst case where the judge turns down your request to sell your future settlement payments.


How much you will get is of course dependant on who you are selling to. The majority of buyers will usually be able to give you a figure within 24 hours. That is an average time to allow for the gathering of any information about your circumstances, as well as the details of your structured settlement. A good buyer will not charge you for a quote.


As with anything financial, take a little time to read and research as just having a little knowledge on structured settlements can save you a lot of money.

About the Author


Over at my web site, you can find out more, easy to read information on how to get cash for structured settlements payment. Just because it's financial, it does not need to be difficult.


Find out more at the Structured Settlement Buyers review site

Why Does Colorado Have A Structured Settlement Protection Act?




Why Does Colorado Have A Structured Settlement Protection Act?   by Jason Rigler


in Law    (submitted 2009-01-04)



Colorado has joined the majority of U.S. states in enacting a law to protect the rights of people selling structured settlement payments. But why have they enacted this law? Why not leave structured settlement sellers to their own devices? What does this do for the consumer and recipient of structured settlement payments?


The Purpose Of Enacting The CO Structured Settlement Law


According to the law itself, the Colorado General Assembly felt it necessary to adopt such a law because it feels that "this act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, and safety." In other words, the law was written to protect the rights of private citizens who receive money from structured settlement payments. The state wanted to be sure that recipients retained the right to sale while they retained the tools necessary to maximize the sale of payments.


Does CO Frown On Structured Settlement Sales?


Colorado does not frown upon the sale of structured settlement payments. For many, selling structured settlement payments is the only way to regain financial composure after falling victim to a personal injury, wrongful death, or loss. For others, the ability to sell structured settlement payments gives them the financial means to pay off debt, stay afloat financially during periods where job income is limited or unavailable, and make major purchases like houses, cars, college, and so on.


Colorado is like other states in that it is more neutral than pro or con structured settlement selling. The state recognizes that selling your payments is your right, and is not for them to dictate beyond the point that they need to in order to protect you from predatory buyers.


What Does The Colorado Structured Settlement Protection Law Do?


The primary provision of the Colorado structured settlement law gives the state power of approval over the sale of settlement payments. It requires first and foremost that the sale and transfer of payments is not effective until the purchase has been approved by a court (judge) of the state. This is not an effort to revoke control over a private individuals' money. It is simply a security measure which allows the court the opportunity to review the sale contract and terms, disclosures of the sale, and confirm that ethical practices have been in place throughout the deal. It is a layer of protection for Colorado residents and nothing more.


The fact that Colorado has adopted a statute of protection for the people holding rights to structured settlement payments in Colorado is not meant to be an infringement on the rights of private citizens, nor is it a vote of no confidence in individual settlement buyers. The act is only to make sure that buyers treat sellers right so that people selling structured settlements in Colorado are set on an even playing field with those interested in partnering with them.


About the Author


Jason Rigler and Prosperity Partners provide resources for settlement attorneys and settlement payees regarding the factoring of structured settlements in Colorado and Colorado structured settlement law

New York Structured Settlement Protection Statutes




New York Structured Settlement Protection Statutes   by Jason Rigler


in Law    (submitted 2008-12-24)



Major Provisions Of New York Structured Settlement Protection Statutes


The major provisions of the New York structured settlement protection statutes were adopted so as to make selling structured settlement payments in New York fairer to the seller. The state accepts the practice of selling payments as a viable financial management and cash-access tool, but it recognized the need to protect sellers so that it remained a tool of use for the buyer and not one for dishonest buyers to use to only their advantage. With the law behind them, sellers can now be assured that their interests have been accounted for in the transaction.


Major Provisions in New Your Structured Settlement Law


There are two major provisions of interest to sellers of structured settlements in New York. They are


• Disclosure
• Approval


Buyer Disclosure In New York Structured Settlement Sales And Transfers


One of the most important things the New York structured settlement transfer protection law does is require buyers to be open with the terms of the sale through full disclosure. The law requires that a written statement be provided to the seller before the seller can be obligated via contract to the sale. The disclosure must come at least ten days before the seller signs the contract for the sale and transfer of payments. It must include


• The amount of payments being paid to buyer
• The dates and number of payments to be made to buyer
• The present value (discounted value) of payments to buyer
• The gross and net amount of the payment to the seller (before and after fees, etc, are paid)
• The discount rate used in determining purchase values
• Any penalty amount that could be charged to the seller if they breach contract
• Comparable values of annuity purchases from the obligor (annuity fund) or an equivalent
• The right to cancel the contract within three days of signing


Court Approval In NY Structured Settlement Sales And Transfers


The court will look to see that all of the above disclosures were made as required and that the purchases are in the best interest of the seller. It will also require an application and package of supporting documents from the seller. When all of this is received the court will rule on approval. Once approval is granted the transfer can move forward and payment can be made to the seller.


Court approval is not a vote of no confidence in the process or act of selling structured settlement payments; it is nothing more than a security blanket for the seller. This is a law designed to keep selling and transferring NY structured settlement payments on a level ground, and to retain the integrity of the practice for the benefit of structured settlement payment holders.


About the Author


Prosperity Partners provides resources for structured settlement recipients and their attorneys regarding the structured settlement laws and procedures for accelerating the payout of future payments to address immediate financial needs.

Michigan Structured Settlement Law




Michigan Structured Settlement Law   by Jason Rigler


in Finance    (submitted 2008-12-24)



Provisions And Actions Of The Michigan Structured Settlement Law


Michigan Chapter 691, the
Michigan Structured Settlement Protection Act, is a law designed expressly for the protection of people who hold rights to and seek to sell structured settlement payments in Michigan. It is a law with a tri-fold purpose that definitively states the process, procedures, and rights for selling settlement payments in the state.


There are three basic functions of the law.


Establishing Conditions For Structured Settlement Sales In MI


The first function of the act, as defined by the Michigan state structured settlement protection act, is to establish conditions to the transfer of structured settlement rights; these conditions afford the opportunity for the state to set regulations for the sale of structured settlements. Conditions include things like


• Requiring disclosure (rates, values, and monetary terms of the dealâ€"the details that show the seller what they are getting and what they are giving)
• Seller rights
• Itemization of buyer fees and commissions, costs paid by the seller (as applicable)
• Advisement by independent professionals
• Checkpoints to determine the financial benefit of the purchase (showing that the sale is in the seller's best interest and that it will not create a financial hardship)


The conditions segment of the law is the part that affords the most protection to sellers. Before the law, there was nothing to require buyers to make such disclosures, but with it the seller has clear and defined rights to information that must be provided to them. All of this serves to insure that the seller is kept informed and educated throughout the sale.


Establishing A Procedure For Settlement Sale Approval


The second function of the MI structured settlement law is to "establish a procedure for approval of the transfer of structured settlement rights;" the process of approval is basically confirmation that all of the conditions in the first action are met.


The process of approval is a defined procedure which states what each party must do and how to apply to the court for approval. This is a procedure that confirms compliance on the part of the buyer, and ensures the benefit of the deal for the seller. The procedure is a means to an end, but the act of approval is really a way to protect the seller.


Create Jurisdiction Over Michigan Structured Settlement Sales


The third and final action of the law is to "create circuit court jurisdiction for proceedings for approval of structured settlement rights." This simply makes it legal for Michigan courts to preside over MI structured settlement sales. It is an act of granting the authority to protect the seller by establishing the chain of approval.


The tri-fold purpose of Michigan's structured settlement protection law really comes down to one thingâ€" seller protection. By taking these actions Michigan has established a way to support sellers of structured settlement payments and insure the integrity of the deal.




About the Author


Prosperity Partners provides resources for structured settlement recipients and their attorneys regarding the structured settlement laws and procedures for accelerating the payout of future payments to address immediate financial needs.


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




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


in Finance    (submitted 2008-10-28)



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!

About the Author


To learn much more about how to get cash for structured settlement payments, including top aspects you should consider before selling, visit http://www.Structured-Settlement-Tips.com

How to Reduce Search Engine Importance for Small Biz.




How to Reduce Search Engine Importance for Small Biz.   by Anthony Francis


in Business / Networking    (submitted 2008-10-17)



By joining a network or syndicate and promoting website links in quality internet directories small businesses can compete and even beat big businesses in sales margins, costs, and the very important element of marketing reach. The hundreds of thousands of small businesses around the world (over 4 million in the UK) contribute to sound economies and although this fact is recognised by governments it seems that the present bail-out funding is unlikely to filter down to them as a direct benefit - cash that is.


In the UK the small businesses that have the patience to trade with Government departments will soon benefit from cash settlements of their outstanding accounts in 10 days and not the normal payment waiting period of 30 days. The importance to maintain sound small business is finally being realised, at least in the UK.


Big Businesses are operated and managed by controlling the many arms or divisions within corporations. A big business whether within national borders or spanning international markets could be looked upon as an accumulation of smaller business operations, sales offices or branches that are spread out but reporting eventually to a Head Office. The HO delegates duties and responsibilities and sets budgets and targets to be achieved in an organization structured like a pyramid. Profits go back to the Head Office in the form of better cost structures or dividends. The outlying operations may have varying degrees of autonomy.


Depending on the degree of delegation, the corporate web of operations can be limited or given free rein to produce results or risk closure for failure to reach targets.
This is a controlling network which in good times can be extremely successful and profitable to shareholders, owners, management and employees. In not-so-good times it can be vulnerable to global trade cycles, manipulation or abject greed of a few unscrupulous players, as we can see, hear and even feel in our economic news stories of late. Flexibility can be difficult to achieve and the negatives of feast and famine can take over, inflicting pain across the full spectrum of employees from the bottom, through the middle, and on to the top. I leave you to figure out who suffers the most when mass layoffs are implemented from HO directives.


If Smaller Businesses want to expand and reach out to global markets they can compete with big businesses by networking or syndicating with other like-minded business owners. The Internet is probably the most important and may even be the most effective means ever available to the millions of small(er) businesses around the world. Learn to use 'the net' or 'the web' to gain exposure to the vast global markets. In times of feast and famine, unlike the inflexibility of BigBiz to adapt, the networks of small businesses should be able to maintain reasonable trading positions without significant fluctuations in costs, sales and sales-margins and at lower risk to employers, employees and local economies.


Finding the appropriate quality networks and directories on the web takes a little effort and some due diligence needs to be undertaken to assess the quality and suitability for each enterprise. Select a quality Go-Direct(ory) where potential new clients can quickly and easily click on your site without going through distracting ads, pop-ups, banners and information collection forms. Your business needs to be the 'main feature' rather than be pre-empted by revenue producing advertisements for the directory operator. Some points to consider:


Your first reaction to the front page is extremely important. If good, continue on but if not so good, move on to another directory.
Look for Directories either closely related to your business or with useful features and popularity. They should fit your requirements.
Spend some time on the directory sites to see which ones are easy to browse and are likely to produce results for you. Be selective.
Calculate the costs of inclusion and the possibility or probability of getting found by serious buyers Not window-shoppers or looky-loos.
Realize that directories reach out to global markets and time-zones making email contacts preferable to telephones. You can always call or Skype back.
Be prepared to handle sales on a 'direct' trading basis and consider offering extra services or upgrades. Extras mean better profits.
Once found, ensure that your own website is always available and that the offers and prices are current. Nothing worse than a price increase.
Ensure that you have an easy and secure settlement system on your site. Pay-pal for instance.


If your business name is 'alphabetically challenged' make sure the directory has a random selection feature and not a fixed list by alphabet as you could be well down the list, hiding on a distant page and rarely found. It should be easy for potential new clients to find you. Try and assess the time that they would linger on the directory site and the possibility of them getting spun off to a competive entity before your link. They may be enticed to click on a link that is not a true listed client on the site, but merely an advertisement to gain 'click revenues' for the directory operator. Many directories build listings merely to achieve high rankings on search engines in order to earn click revenues from onsite advertising without much concern for the listed businesses. This could be in conflict with your own reasons for being listed and linked. Make sure the directory sends visitors directly to you, not via a convoluted click sequence to enable more benefits to the directory than for you. Some directories will charge you a set-up fee plus a listing fee. Some will charge you on a sales commission basis for either click throughs to your site or, but rarely, on a pay for performance basis geared to an actual sale.


If you pay to be listed in a directory. The best kind of directory is a 'Go-Direct(ory)' where leads are generated and sent 'asap' to you 'without passing Go' or without being filtered through a chain of events not relevant to your business. DIRECT SHOULD MEAN DIRECT!


You should not have to pay to be listed if the directory is primarily geared to gaining search engine rankings to seek the main revenues from click advertisements. As in life and in directories, you should get what you pay for but if you do not get any leads or benefits, remember you may not have paid to be listed. However you may have to pay click fees to the directory for all leads whether qualified or not for your products. Reciprocal linking can be beneficial to you but just getting 'looky-loos' or window shoppers to your website can be expensive in both time and money.


Pay for Performance is probably the best way to advertise, market and promote your products. When your product is sold - You pay!


Commissions are a very fair way of compensating and rewarding effort. If the directory sends prospects to you and you close a sale you could pay them for their performance for generating quality leads which you have closed. If the lead is not closed there should not be any lead generation cost to you and no revenue for the directory. Unless the directory has other advertising income it should be motivated to produce for you as it will be rewarded by you for quality leads. You should consider not only the cost but the time waisted on unqualified leads.


How about a directory that will produce quality buyers and visitors for your website and encourages more sales for you with quality advertising and promotion, does not charge you but offers rewards to visitors to get them to click to your business. Impossible? Not necessarily, although only related to travel, there is a directory that is meeting all of these requirements offering a different slant on web directory operations.


This web directory does not derive income from the businesses that are listed and linked and there are not any Google-type advertisements or offline banners to distract visitors away from the listed and direct-linked businesses. At the website of The Top Travel Club any travel-related business can list and link without cost but they must allow the club to discount the normal sales commissions payable to sellers of their products back to club members who have paid a membership fee to belong to the club.


The website plans to support the listed travel clients with a large global membership base and to offer the members discounts for booking directly with the operators. The logic of the system is that a large base of serious traveller-members supporting the travel operators listed with the website will negate the importance of search engine rankings which, in travel, are dominated by a few major operators with big budgets. The club is building global travel content that should appeal to travellers around the world. Members must be comfortable with handling their own travel arrangements directly with these operators. Plans are in place to partner with a selection of other global clubs, associations and loyalty programs to build a membership base where sufficient member-sales will be generated from the club to reduce the need to be high on the search rankings.


Pay for performance is operating quite differently at this directory as it does not go to the seller of the travel product but to the buyer. The buyer gets true direct prices if dealing directly with the supplier. The supplier gets all advertising, marketing and promotion as long as direct booking discounts are given to members and additionally, to visitors to a sister site.


There may be other directories that are truly 'go-direct' without passing 'go' but when the sales program is a pay for performance it is normal to expect the seller to get the pay, not the buyer. Whatever next in the grand scheme of internet sales and marketing? And are there any other websites operating in different industries similar to this one?


Finally, consider your own wants and needs and buying style. When you deal directly with a source, factory or outlet store you would normally expect to pay net, wholesale or outlet prices but if you are unable to find these outlets you would probably find a retailer and pay the full price. The internet is ideal for direct sales and if you operate a business where you are the source or outlet equivalent and if you have allowed a retail sales margin in your products you can now consider a direct sales discount offer for consumers.


Take care not to alienate your retailers, brokers and agents when you offer direct sales discounts. It is only fair that they be rewarded for selling your products and services but you should also have the option to reach out to global consumers who may not be able to find your products at local stores, brokers, agents or elsewhere on the internet. However, it may not be advisable to advertise a two-tier pricing structure on your own website.


If you have never been represented by a retailer, wholesaler, broker or agent you can still consider offering direct sales discounts to gain more business from a directory. Volume / Yield benefits can be achieved by selling more at a lower margin to make more profits, unless of course, you do not want to sell more or do not have any more capacity and do not want to expand your business.


We can all improve our own businesses by using the resources now readily available but it may be easier and smarter to work with others who have similar goals or who are willing to share their greater experiences. Synergy, or 2 + 2 = 5 comes to mind or build it and they will come.




About the Author


International traveller for over 40yrs and developer of the TopTravelVoucher program at TheTopTravelClub.com

Florida Structured Settlement Factoring Law




Florida Structured Settlement Factoring Law   by heal3r


in Law    (submitted 2008-08-19)



Florida does have a law which governs the sale and transfer of structured settlement payments. This law has many sections, all containing detailed information which outlines the process of gaining court approval for a structured settlement sale. Get to know this law to know your rights as a seller of structured settlement or annuity payments in Florida.


Florida's law, Title XXXVII, INSURANCE Chapter 626, is divided into six different sections, which include the following.

Purpose Of The Law


The first section defines the purpose of the law, which is to "protect recipients of structured settlements who are involved in the process of transferring structured settlement payment rights." This helps to clarify the intent of the law and show that the purpose of it is only to ensure an equitable sale.


Defining The Law


The second section is a list of definitions which define the meaning of essential language in the statute as it applies to this particular law. This tells readers what specific terms refer to in order to clarify interpretation.


Conditions Of Payments Rights, Settlement Agreements


The third section, detailing terms and conditions for successful approval of FL structured settlement payments, is perhaps the most important. This is the true meat of the law and lays out the steps that buyers must take in order to be in full compliance and gain sale/transfer approval. It includes provisions for full disclosure of rates, commissions and fees, of the amounts of money to be received by the seller in both dollar figures and expressed as percentages, and also for the protection of the interests of the seller and dependents.


Jurisdiction


The section on jurisdiction outlines the process of approval through the courts. This includes information that tells how a successful application should be made, as well as what notifications must be made to interested parties. This section is, essentially, a guide to successfully petitioning the court.


Waiver Prohibition


This section is included to afford protection to the seller in case the buyer does not meet the requirements of the "Conditions" section. It basically says that there can be no fees or expenses, and no loss of income or payments if the transfer fails to comply with the law (fails to get approval).


Noncompliance


This section details the rights of the payee (the seller) if the transferee (the buyer) violates stipulations of the law, such as disclosing discount rates and finance charges. It also includes a clause defining the level of liability the buyer can be held liable to if the violation is a true error, and not an intentional action.


Florida does have a comprehensive law which defines the rights, conditions, and processes for transferring structured settlement payments by selling structured settlements. This law is in place for the protection of the seller, and its aim is to help Florida residents gain fair access to their money though a process that serves their best interests.


About the Author


Prosperity Partners serves structured settlement recipients and factoring clients in Florida.

California Takes Pains To Clarify Laws Governing Structured Settlement Sales




California Takes Pains To Clarify Laws Governing Structured Settlement Sales   by heal3r


in Law    (submitted 2008-08-19)



California Takes Pains To Clarify Laws Governing Structured Settlement Sales


By now most states have adopted legislation to protect the rights of state residents who are receiving structured settlement payments. Not surprisingly, the state of California, often recognized as a leader in regulatory control, has gone a step further in the articles of their structured settlement law to clearly define the terms that must be presented to potential sellers during the contracting and transfer and sale of California structured settlement payments.


For The People


The requirements and language of the law governing structured settlements in California is clearly geared towards making sure sellers are fully informed of their rights, as well as the terms of the sale. Not only has California written and enacted a comprehensive law, but they have included very specific requirements for full disclosure to sellers. In the disclosure structured settlement buyers are required to provide


The total amount of payments to be transferred (sold)
The amount of all expenses, fees, commissions, and costs that will be deducted from the sale purchase price, as/if applicable
The net amount of money that will be paid to the payee (seller)
The discounted present value of the payments being purchased
The federal rate used to arrive at a present value for the money
Figures and amounts expressed as percentages


These required disclosures are much the same as the regulations that have been adopted by other states, but California takes it a step further. They clearly define the language that must be used so that the information given is presented in as understandable a way as possible. For instance, where the law states that the buyer must provide "The discounted present value of all structured settlement payments to be transferred," it also states that the buyer must put that into understandable terms by using the direct statement "This is the value of your structured settlement in current dollars."


It takes similar steps to insure that the seller understands the rate that is used to discount the value to present day by requiring it to be expressed as a percentage rate, something the average consumer is much more familiar with. The law dictates that the rate be disclosed in this way: ""YOU WILL BE PAYING THE EQUIVALENT OF AN INTEREST RATE OF ___% PER YEAR."
Although these may seem insignificant sticking points initially, California settlement recipients should find comfort in the extra effort afforded by the CA structured settlement law [Cal Ins Code § 10134-10139.5 (CA A.B. 2162)]. By being clear about the language and information that must be disclosed to potential sellers of California structured settlements the state has gone a step further to protect the rights of its citizens by ensuring that confusing legal language does not result in sellers entering into agreements that are less than favorable to them, or that are not what they believed them to be.




About the Author


Ppicash.com provides capital for individuals seeking to convert future structured settlements California and annuity payments into cash now.

Structured Settlement Brokers: What They Do And Why You Need One




Structured Settlement Brokers: What They Do And Why You Need One   by Simon Volkov


in Finance    (submitted 2008-04-24)



Structured settlement brokers assist in the development and negotiation of structured settlements. This type of financial arrangement is used to compensate individuals who have been seriously injured and provide consistent income over a specific period of time. Structured settlements are also used to compensate individuals who have won lottery jackpots or awarded a large sum of money through a lawsuit.


The role of structured settlement brokers is to advise attorneys on the different types of annuity plans available to their clients or to assist in the sale of structured settlements. Brokers provide detailed descriptions of settlement offers, answer questions relating to the offers, and help negotiate the best deal for the client.


Each structured settlement is unique; however, the main focus is to address both the current and future financial needs of the injured party. The monetary amount of the settlement is based on many factors including current and projected economic conditions and life expectancy of the Claimant.


Most structured settlements include upfront cash for attorney fees and medical expenses, along with annuity payment for future medical care, mortgage payments or rent, retirement income, or educational funds for dependents.


When developing a proposal the structured settlement broker must first assess detailed information about the individual who will receive the funds. Brokers must review the Claimant's medical, credit and employment history and carefully analyze life care plans to ensure the individual is fully compensated for future medical and living expenses.


One of the first steps the structured settlement broker will take is to determine if the Claimant qualifies for a sub-standard age rating. Many factors are involved to determine the life expectancy of the injured party. These include smoking, alcohol consumption, heart disease, cancer, obesity, diabetes and other health issues.


Annuity payments are backed by life insurance companies. Insurance companies base their premiums on the level of risk. There are three ratings which include Preferred, Standard and Sub-standard. People with a sub-standard rating are oftentimes declined coverage. However, in the case of annuity payments a sub-standard rating may actually provide a better rate-of-return.


Structured settlement brokers have access to numerous life insurance companies and are able to shop around for the best annuity for the Claimant. Additionally, brokers can interact with Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) if required, mediate negotiations and offer tax-planning and financial advice to the Claimant.


Annuity payments are not subject to income tax; however, investment proceeds are subject to taxation. Additionally, if annuity payments are payable to an estate they are subject to estate tax. Payments can be structured in any manner agreed upon by the parties involved. Annuity payments might be paid out monthly, semi-annually or annually; in equal installments or installments of varying amounts.


Once structured settlements are finalized they are no longer open for negotiation or change by either party. However, structured settlement payments can be sold for a lump sum cash payment. A structured settlement broker can assist with selling a portion or the whole settlement if the need arises.


When selling a structured settlement, it's important to work with a broker who does not have an exclusive arrangement with the buyer. Trustworthy brokers have access to numerous buyers and will work on the seller's behalf to obtain the best deal possible.


In order to obtain the best structured settlement arrangement, it's important to work with a broker who is registered with the Department of Justice and insured against errors and omissions. Conduct research online to ensure the broker has a clean track record and can be trusted with sensitive information.

About the Author


Simon Volkov is a private Note Investor who specializes in structured settlements and helps individuals who need to liquidate their assets. Learn more about buying and selling annuity payments at www.SimonVolkov.com.

No comments:

Post a Comment