Finances and Stress

by admin 2. February 2012 09:54

Hi Everyone, JG Wentworth here.

Today I want to talk about something that all of us know in one way or another: stress. Stress is not necessarily a bad thing, but it can become a terrible thing if it takes over your life. It can lead to heart disease, high blood pressure, and other physical side affects. There are many things that may cause stress, but frequently a contributing factor is money. Not being able to pay one's bills can be a huge burden on one's state of mind. Unfortunately, there are many out there who must deal with this every day, even those with structured settlements.

A structured settlement plan is supposed to provide economic relief for a long period of time. It was created to prevent heavy spending and encourage financial responsibility. It breaks up the settlement in smaller payments over a long period of time. Unfortunately, life does not always go along with the plan. Along the way, you may find yourself in a situation where you need more than your structured settlement payments provide. It could be paying for higher education, a large medical bill or anything in between. You shouldn't have to stress about how you're going to find the money to pay the next bill when there is another way out.

Contact one of our representatives today to find out whether selling all or part of your structured settlement payments can help you find stress relief. We have helped many receive a large lump sum now for their future structure settlement payments in order to take care of the mounting bills in their lives. Beat stress today with a lump sum payment from JG Wentworth.

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Higher Costs for Higher Education

by admin 31. January 2012 06:57

Did you know that most people who enter a college or university today will leave with some sort of debt? In fact, the average amount of money those students will owe after they leave college is over $25,000. No matter what the economy is like – good or bad – college tuition costs have continued to rise. Since 2000, public tuition grew at an average 5.6% above inflation. That's higher than it has ever been before, and costs don't appear to be going down anytime soon. That means college graduates will continue to leave college with more debt and fewer opportunities.

If you're worried about how you're going to pay for your children’s or your own college education, you may want to consider selling all or a portion of your structured settlement payment. A structured settlement is a good long term solution to managing your finances, but there are times when you may need additional help sooner. A tuition bill could certainly be one of those times. In this tough economy, a college degree is more important than ever to obtain a well-paying job and accomplish your career goals. You shouldn't have to go into deep debt to live out your dreams.

If you're struggling to come up with a payment plan for college tuition and receive structured settlement payments, contact a JG Wentworth representative today. We have helped thousands pay off their college tuition, medical bills, and other life events that might require more than a structured settlement payment.

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Using Your Tax Return Wisely

by admin 26. January 2012 09:20

Hi folks, J.G. Wentworth here.

Last night while I was watching TV at home, I saw a commercial about how to spend your tax return money this year. Many people will put it towards a big purchase they want to make or use it to pay down their debt. But, what if the refund isn't enough to cover the entire purchase or get you out of the red and into the black?

The money you get from the IRS is certainly a start, but if you need cash now then that's where we come in.

At J.G. Wentworth, you can sell some or all your structured settlement or annuity payments for a lump sum of cash. So if your tax return falls short of your financial needs in the coming months, consider our services for additional help with your cash flow. Wouldn't you like to start the year off right by getting your finances in order?

In order to get the most out of your tax return, avoid heavy spending. Some people view their tax return as "free" money to justify spending it frivolously. If you need cash now to make a purchase, pay bills, or reduce your debt, you should put this money towards needs rather than wants. Eliminate the temptation to spend your tax return foolishly by removing it from your checking account for safe keeping. If you need extra cash over and above what you receive from the IRS this season, contact us today. We have experienced representatives who can help you make an informed decision about selling future periodic payments for a lump sum of money sooner. 

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Structured Settlements: Smart for Children - but Kids Grow Up!

by admin 24. January 2012 06:43

Hi, Folks. J.G. Wentworth here.

I just finished listening to a podcast from Ringer Radio - a source for some the latest news and information about structured settlements from experts in the industry - in which the host, Larry Cohen, and the show's guest, personal injury attorney James C. Lewis, explained the reasons why a structured settlement is a smart choice when a child is injured.

According to the host and the guest, the reasons why a structured settlement, as opposed to a lump sum is the best choice for the child as well as the family in the long run, are as follows:

·         Young people who receive a structured settlement are usually given access to that money when they reach the age of 18 or 21, depending on the laws in the state where they live.   They might not have the insight, judgment or maturity to manage it properly if they receive it in a lump sum at the time it is awarded and when they are of a younger age - structured settlements cure that problem.

·         Structured settlement payments are planned out to fit the child's future goals as best as possible. For example, payments can be scheduled in advance for college tuition and other expenses. If the child doesn't end up going to college, those payments will be available to the then-adult at the regularly scheduled time.

·         Catastrophic injuries are expensive. Not only do children suffer the devastation of an injury, but the whole family may suffer financially. Periodic structured settlement payments can help to ensure that future medical expenses can be covered for complications that may arise.

While all of these points are valid, I couldn't help but think about all the structured settlement payments we have purchased from people whose payments had no longer fit their needs. Life is full of variables that are impossible to predict, especially when it comes to guessing the future of a young child. Perhaps the child has overcome obstacles that originally were associated with the injury. Maybe their dreams and goals have changed, which then changes their financial needs, so that the scheduled payments might no longer fit based on their original timeframe.

If you have future structured settlement payments lined up, but you need cash now to cover unforeseen expenses, contact J.G. Wentworth today.

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Diversify Your Investment by Selling Your Annuity

by admin 19. January 2012 06:50

Hi Folks, J.G. Wentworth here. Today I'd like to talk about one of the greatest benefits of selling your annuity payments: potentially higher returns as a result of diversifying your investment.

Many baby boomers are turning to annuities as a safe investment opportunity because they are a source of guaranteed income during retirement years. With gaps in social security and other investments, I can't blame them. After all, amidst all of the current economy's uncertainty, who wouldn't want a product that provides lifetime income? At the same time, I can't help but wonder if the money they are investing in annuities could be growing quicker or producing higher returns by choosing diversified investment options.

As the saying goes, "Don't put all of your eggs in one basket." If you own an annuity, think about this expression in the context of your investment. Are you pooling all of your resources in one "basket"? If so, you might want to consider diversifying your investment, rather than channeling everything into one venture. In finance, diversification is the fundamental principal of mixing a variety of investments within a portfolio for sound investing - a strategy that is strongly recommended by advisors and other professionals in the industry. Could selling your annuity payments for a lump sum of cash give you the opportunity to earn higher returns in the long-run?

If you want to learn more about selling your annuity payments, contact J.G. Wentworth today. Our customer service representatives will help you understand your options and explain the process to you, so you can evaluate your retirement needs and the needs of your family.

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Why Sell Your Lottery Winnings For Cash?

by admin 17. January 2012 05:06

Hi Everyone, J.G. Wentworth here.

While winning the lottery may seem like a far-fetched dream, some lucky folks have realized this blissful reality. And with this reality they have also faced the decision as to whether to receive periodic payments or a lump sum.

After receiving a large amount of money, it's expected for someone to remain speechless. So, while you are in a state of jaw-dropping gratitude for your lottery winnings, you should begin considering which payment method to choose.

While some winners choose to receive periodic payments, they may soon realize that they need more of their lottery money now, because their financial circumstances have changed. They may have recently experienced a medical emergency that brought about expensive medical bills to pay off. Rather than waiting for the periodic payments, they can pay off the bill sooner with a lump sum of cash that we can provide by buying those periodic payments. Maybe they have children who are getting ready to go to college. Rather than taking out loans, they can use that lump sum to pay off those college expenses.

Maybe those lucky winners don't necessarily need the money for a certain financial circumstance, but rather, would like to have the money to use for themselves - for a fun new car, or a much needed and long anticipated vacation.

Whatever the reason for wanting a lump sum now, instead of waiting for your future lottery payments, we can help you.  We can work with you and discuss your needs - maybe selling a portion of your winnings will help with your current needs, and you can keep the rest of your lottery payments coming in as scheduled. We will work with you to help design a sale of your lottery payments that fits your financial needs.

If you have any questions or would like to learn more about selling your lottery winnings for a lump sum, feel free to contact us.

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How to Pay Off Your Debt with a Lump Sum

by admin 12. January 2012 04:10

Hi Everyone, J.G. Wentworth here.

Debt has become a growing concern affecting countless Americans. And while some are able to manage their financial issues on their own, others find themselves knee-deep in debt and looking for a solution. Fortunately, J.G. Wentworth can help.

By selling your structured settlement payments for a lump sum of cash, you can start climbing your way out of debt and move towards a fresh financial start. While you must make the decision as to how to pay off your debt with your lump sum, below is helpful information regarding the two most commonly used types of debt payoff methods and the benefits of each. Before you have received any money from selling your structured settlement payments, you should list all of your debts. Then, by taking a look at your debts and what you owe, this will help you decide which debt payoff method below fits you best. 

1.  Pay off the highest interest rate first

Paying off your debt with the highest interest rate first can grant you several benefits. To begin with, this method may allow you to save money in the long term. Think about it – holding onto a loan with a 7% interest rate and paying off a 14% loan could save you money, depending, of course, on the amount of the 2 debts owed.  Additionally, paying off your debt with the highest interest rate first, is emotionally refreshing. You're paying off the highest rate you owe, leaving you with lower rate payments that should motivate you to pay off even more of your debt.

2.  Pay off the highest balance first

Others, however, have turned to the "snowball method" in which they pay off their debts from the smallest to largest amount, while making minimum payments on other balances. Several prefer this method because after paying off one amount in full and seeing results, they become motivated to continuously make other payments.

Both payment methods have proven themselves effective in helping those people struggling with debt. By reviewing your own financial situation, you can determine which method fits you best. If you have any questions or would like to learn more about how a lump sum can help you pay off your debt, feel free to contact us.

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The What and How of Structured Settlements and Lump Sums

by admin 10. January 2012 06:26

You may be wondering what exactly a structured settlement is. In simple terms, it is a financial package that is awarded to provide money through a series of payments over time, rather than in one lump sum. Each structured settlement is different in the duration of the payment period, as they are customized to fit each individuals' circumstances.

In theory, structured settlements are supposed to provide a reliable source of income for plaintiffs over many years. They are frequently awarded to victims of malpractice or accidents, and are broken out to help cover future medical expenses, possible lost wages, and so on. However, like anything else, just because something looks good on paper, doesn't mean it will work in practice.

In life, countless things could happen to change a situation. Maybe a child wants to go to college or you incur heavy medical expenses. If you are dependent on your structured settlement payments as your primary income, you may need additional help to make ends meet. Stuctured settlements can prove to be a decision that made sense at the time it was put into place, but life's unexpected surprises can mean a change in your individual needs.

If you or someone you love is facing financial strain and the restrictions of their structured settlement payments, a resolution may be possible. At J.G. Wentworth we are in the business of buying future payments for lump sums of cash now, to help individuals handle their current money needs.

In fact, over the 15+ years we have been in business, we have helped more than 50,000 people get cash sooner, by purchasing $2 billion in future payments. There are a number of reasons why you may need a lump sum of cash now and we are here to offer you a solution. Contact us today for more information.

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Make Your Lump Sum Last: Creating a Budget

by admin 29. December 2011 11:37

Hi folks, J.G. Wentworth here.

I'm in the business of helping people get a lump sum of cash in order to meet their financial goals. Receiving your cash after selling some or all of your structured settlement, fixed annuity, or lottery payments must feel like a huge weight is lifted off our customers' shoulders.  But I often wonder if they have a detailed budget in place to make the money - and their financial freedom - last.  Here are some ideas to help you create a personal budget, stretch your dollars, and maximize your peace of mind.

·         List expenses. How much do your bills cost you every month? Make a list of your regular expenses, including how much you typically spend on entertainment, clothes, eating out, and other costs. After you have completed your list, add it all up.

·         Total earnings. How much do you bring in each month? Make a list of all the cash you bring in every month, including profits you make from investments.  Once you have finished this list, total it. Remember: if you're selling a settlement or annuity for a lump sum, your earnings will change based on the fact that you won't be getting some or all your regular payments anymore.

·         Balance it out.  Are you making more than you're spending?  Figure out how much you should have left at the end of each month so you know how much to put towards repaying your debts as well as investments for your future.

·         Repay debts. Do you have debts to pay off?  Many people use their lump sum to catch up on their bills or pay down large debts.  Come up with a plan for how to repay the debts, starting with the one with the highest interest rate.

·         Build in savings/investments.  If you have money left over, think about how you want to invest it. Do you want to save up for an "emergency fund"?  Would you like to add more to your investment plan?  Once you have defined your needs, build these investments into your monthly budget.

·         Put into action. The only way to figure out if your budget is realistic is to put it into action. Live with it for a few months to determine whether or not you need to make some changes.

·         Adjust - and readjust. Selling a settlement or annuity for a lump sum can drastically change your financial situation. As your needs continue to change, adjust your budget.

Our representatives are ready and able to help talk you through our process and discuss your options. Call now and see how we can help you today!

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Getting Organized: Steps to Take before Selling a Structured Settlement

by admin 22. December 2011 07:23

Hi Everyone, J.G. Wentworth here.

Today, I’d like to discuss the importance of getting organized before selling structured settlement payments.  Without this important step in the process, you could end up with an unbalanced monthly budget or a lump sum of money that doesn’t cover your needs.  Here are some tips for getting your finances in order before signing on the dotted line to get the money you need.

Understand Your Structured Settlement

Do you know the terms of your structured settlement?  Before you can make an educated decision about whether or not to sell, you must first understand every feature of your structured settlement, including its strengths and weaknesses.  Only after you know what the settlement offers, will you be able to determine whether it fits into your life, or if you should explore other options, such as selling it for a lump sum of money.  I know it sounds a little cliché, but making a list of the pros and cons of your structured settlement payments will allow you to visualize the benefits and drawbacks of your current situation.

Create a Detailed Monthly Budget

How much do you spend in a month?  Are any of these costs variable expenses that can be cut back? How much of this number does your structured settlement payment cover?  Do you have any other source of income?  It’s important to create a detailed monthly budget that compares money that comes in, with money that goes out. If you determine that your structured settlement payments do not cover your expenses, even after you cut back wherever you can, then selling some or all of them for a lump sum of cash could allow you to get ahead on your finances.

If you would like to learn more about selling your structured settlement payments and how a lump sum of money could help you with your finances, get yourself organized and contact us today.

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