Lori Avant - Financial Representative

05/15/2025

07/04/2023

Women tend to have lower retirement savings compared to men. According to various studies, the gender retirement savings gap in the United States has been estimated to be around 30% to 40%. This discrepancy can be attributed to factors like wage gaps, career interruptions due to caregiving responsibilities, and longer life expectancies. But this doesn’t have to be your story. Life insurance can be used in retirement to provide income through various strategies. Including tax free strategies. Message me if you’d like to learn more!

07/02/2023

The term “Lost Decade for Stocks” refers to the ten-year period from 12/31/1999 through 12/31/2009, when the S&P 500® generated an annualized total return of -0.9% over the period. The S&P 500 index declined approximately 56% from its peak in October 2007 to its bottom in March 2009. Overall, the lost decade of stocks had a substantial impact on retirement accounts, spotlighting the risks and challenges associated with relying solely on stock market investments for retirement funding (401k’s, IRA’s etc.). It served as a reminder of the need for diversification. Money allocated for retirement should not be put at risk. Utilize strategies that include quality annuities and IUL’s to safeguard your money. Explore your options sooner than later!

06/30/2023

Retirement accounts serve as the primary channel for most Americans to participate in the fluctuations of the stock market. According to a Vanguard report from 2021, nearly 75% of all 401(k) funds are allocated to stocks. This statistic underscores the significant exposure individuals have to the performance of the stock market within their retirement savings. The funds that we shouldn't be risking. One bad year (2022) can wipe out 20% - 30% of growth in a 401k or IRA.

There are strategies you can use to rebalance or reallocate retirement money, including Fixed Index Annuities and Index Universal Life insurance products.

The specific features and benefits vary among different products and insurance companies. It's recommended to consult with a professional to determine which option aligns with your stage of life, financial goals, risk tolerance, and overall financial plan.

06/27/2023

Many companies offer benefits that include paid life insurance. Generally speaking, it's one or one and a half times your salary. While this is a great perk, please know that employer-provided life insurance in most cases ends when you leave the company. At that time you are older and possibly your health has changed which means rates are higher and it can be more challenging to get the type of coverage you want. Make sure you have your own policy that stays with you no matter where you work!

06/23/2023

Certain medical conditions will mean you'll be paying higher rates for life insurance if you are trying to get new coverage. Age will be an added factor that impacts premiums.

These are the most common conditions that raise rates:

1. Heart disease. Even a family history of heart disease might mean you pay a higher rate.

2. Diabetes. Type I diabetes that developed during childhood will have higher rates -- and sometimes trouble finding a carrier that will insure you.

3. Cancer. Types of cancer, the severity of the cancer and even the treatment you received will affect your premiums. Some carriers may not even cover you, especially if you've been diagnosed within the last 5 years.

4. Obesity. Insurance carriers definitely take your weight into consideration. There are build charts that provide guidelines on height and weight. These vary by company.

5. Pulmonary disease. Usually higher premiums are charged for life insurance if you have had life-long asthma.

These conditions don't mean you can't find a carrier to cover you, it just means your options start to shrink and premiums increase.

Another reason to get coverage when you are younger and healthy.

06/21/2023

Learn some life insurance basics at any stage of life!

06/11/2023

When Tom was tragically killed in a snowmobiling accident at just 45, the world collapsed for Jeanie and the kids. Thankfully, they planned ahead with life insurance.