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Life Health > Life Insurance

A light in stormy seas

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?? 1/2 But in this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.?? 1/2
?? 1/2 Benjamin Franklin

Sunny skies and smooth sailing are not always the forecast in life. Instead, more often than not we find ourselves in turbulent waters navigating through life?? 1/2 s many uncertainties.

This is especially true in today?? 1/2 s economic climate of rising energy costs, fluctuating stock prices and a questionable housing market. These large economic woes coupled with personal risks, such as unexpected medical expenses, can threaten the stability of even the most solid financial portfolios.

Facing the threat of these storms can cause seniors to question whether their current financial integrity will wash ashore if these risks become reality. As trusted financial advisors, we serve a role similar to a lighthouse keeper. While our clients have no choice but to brave the stormy seas, wise ones will use us to guide them to today?? 1/2 s unique financial products.

Even with a wide range of financial tools at our disposal, some clients and even advisors overlook the unique power and flexibility of life insurance. Often perceived as a product that delivers value only after the person insured has passed away, properly managed life insurance can be a beacon that delivers peace of mind and financial gain not just in the future but today.

Skilled advisors should encourage senior clients and prospects facing a strain on their retirement savings to work with you to take a closer look at their existing life insurance policies. Many seniors may be pleasantly surprised to learn that an older, whole life insurance policy has built up a significant amount of cash value over time.

Adjusting the dividend option to be paid in cash to the owner will positively affect a client?? 1/2 s current financial outlook by complementing their retirement income and improving their cash flow. Even universal and variable life policies with high surrender values may have more cash than is needed to keep the death protection in effect for life.

Another question often raised by seniors is whether an unexpected downturn in the stock market or unanticipated financial expenses will result in losses that diminish the legacy they plan to leave behind. In my business, I find that clients who own life insurance are more comfortable discussing the possibility of needing to spend their retirement income and savings. Much of the peace of mind life insurance delivers is in knowing that even if they deplete their savings and retirement income, there will still be something left for their heirs.

Seniors unprotected from risk should not yet count out life insurance. Many healthy seniors today are qualifying for life insurance at reasonable rates. Through a low monthly payment, a new policy is a safe investment toward leaving a financial legacy for children and grandchildren.

The sea of life is filled with uncertainty, yet life insurance is one of the few guarantees that when you need it most, it?? 1/2 s there. Like a Global Positioning System device that helps mariners navigate the seas, life insurance can help your clients sail whether it is cloudy skies today or tomorrow.

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