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!