Annuities

Volatility Control Index

Presented by Deb Strong Clients have many different choices when picking an index strategy.  The Volatility Control Index is one that can help even out the highs and lows in the market.  I like to compare it to getting better gas mileage when you are driving your car.  When you are going up a hill, it takes more gas, when coasting down a hill it takes less gas.  This can help with the overall performance in the market and help your clients sleep better at night. Please call Deb Strong at 800-397-9999 for details. Please click on the link below for more information. https://financial-brokerage.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Volatility-Control-Index.pdf  
Annuities

One Aspect of an Annuity Contract

Presented by David Corwin   One of the least thought about benefits of providing annuities to your clients is that the annuitant can, in most cases, have complete control over how their beneficiaries will gain access to the money at the client’s death.  When presenting an annuity contract, don’t forget to share this important aspect with your client or potential client.  It doesn’t take the place of a trust or will, but for a lot of people it would serve a very valuable purpose.  While your client may be looking at purchasing an annuity contract for retirement purposes, they may also be concerned that one of their beneficiaries (often a child) isn’t financially responsible enough to appropriately handle a lump sum payout.  In many cases it seems the client just names a beneficiary and the contract is issued; however, it should be presented to the client that they can pre-select alternate payout options when the contract is written.  For example, they could choose a ‘life payout with 15 years certain’.  In this scenario, if the client passes away, the beneficiary would receive the remaining number of years left in annual installments, rather than in a lump sum. Just another aspect of annuity contracts that many advisors may fail to mention.  
Life Insurance

Group Life vs. Individual Coverage

Presented by Brian Leising I had a recent conversation with a producer who has an opportunity to help several employees at a business obtain individual life insurance.  Why individual coverage in a business?  The business recently changed ownership and the new owner decided not to offer group life insurance to the employees.  I used to warn employees of this very situation while selling life insurance as a voluntary workplace benefit.  I explained that although the group plan their employer offered was a great benefit, they were not in control.  The employer could drop the benefit at any time.  If they left that employer for another, they had no guarantee the next employer would offer the same benefit.  If you find yourself in a similar situation, ask your prospects:  “Do you really want to hand over control of your family’s financial future if you died unexpectedly to your employer?  You have the ability – and the duty – to take control of the situation and take care of your family yourself.  Your employer will never care for your family as much as you do.”  I understand some people cannot qualify for individual life insurance due to poor health.  Most can.  Make sure your clients and prospects are aware of this potential problem and make sure they have personally owned life insurance in place before their employer forces their hand.  They may not qualify in the future.