<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?><rss xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:itunes="http://www.itunes.com/dtds/podcast-1.0.dtd" xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/" version="2.0">

<channel>
	<title>AccuQuote's Life Insurance Podcast</title>
	<atom:link href="https://www.accuquote.com/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml"/>
	<link>https://www.accuquote.com</link>
	<description>Learn tips and advice about life insurance, disability insurance, annuities, and more from the personal finance experts at AccuQuote. Byron Udell, AccuQuote's Founder, CEO, published author, and life insurance expert spills the beans on a variety of personal finance topics.</description>
	<lastBuildDate>Thu, 12 Jun 2025 20:25:50 +0000</lastBuildDate>
	<language>en-US</language>
	<sy:updatePeriod>
	hourly	</sy:updatePeriod>
	<sy:updateFrequency>
	1	</sy:updateFrequency>
	<generator>https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.3</generator>
	<itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:image href="http://www.accuquote.com/podcast/podcast-cover.jpg"/><itunes:keywords>Term,life,insurance,Term,life,insurance,rates,Cheap,life,insurance,Term,insurance,Term,life,insurance,quote,Life,insurance,quotes,Life,insurance,policy,Term,lifeLife,insurance,company,AccuQuote,Byron,Udell,Annually,renewable,life,insurance,permanent,life</itunes:keywords><itunes:summary>Learn life insurance and financial planning tips from one of the nation's leading life insurance experts Byron Udell. Udell and his industry leading life insurance brokerage, AccuQuote, have been featured in top financial publications and television shows nationwide.</itunes:summary><itunes:subtitle>Learn life insurance and financial planning tips from one of the nation's leading life insurance experts Byron Udell. Udell and his industry leading life insurance brokerage, AccuQuote, have been featured in top financial publications and television shows</itunes:subtitle><itunes:category text="Business"><itunes:category text="Investing"/></itunes:category><itunes:author>Byron Udell</itunes:author><itunes:owner><itunes:email>scheyney@accuquote.com</itunes:email><itunes:name>Byron Udell</itunes:name></itunes:owner><item>
		<title>Life Insurance Benefits: The Accelerated Death Rider</title>
		<link>https://www.accuquote.com/expert-advice/life-insurance-benefits-the-accelerated-death-benefit/</link>
		
		
		<pubDate>Wed, 23 Sep 2020 16:34:23 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Expert Advice]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[accelerated death benefit]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[add ons]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[life insurance add ons]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[life insurance riders]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.accuquote.com/?p=3927</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Did you know that there are life insurance benefits you may be able to take advantage of before you die? It&#8217;s true. Life insurance itself is an amazing product, and when you add a feature known as the Accelerated Death Benefit, also known as the Terminal Illness Rider, it can make your policy even more...</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.accuquote.com/expert-advice/life-insurance-benefits-the-accelerated-death-benefit/">Life Insurance Benefits: The Accelerated Death Rider</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.accuquote.com">AccuQuote</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p class="lead">Did you know that there are life insurance benefits you may be able to take advantage of before you die? It&#8217;s true.</p>
<p>Life insurance itself is an amazing product, and when you add a feature known as the Accelerated Death Benefit, also known as the Terminal Illness Rider, it can make your policy even more valuable. The concept behind the Accelerated Death Benefit is simple: under certain circumstances, your life insurance company can give you a cash advance against your death benefit. You can use the money to cover medical bills, pay for a family vacation, or otherwise make the most of the time you have left. <em>Availability may vary by state.</em></p>
<p>The Accelerated Death Benefit can provide relief during a very difficult time.</p>
<p>Some life insurance policies include an Accelerated Death benefit automatically, and others will require you to request the benefit. Every insurance carrier does things differently.</p>
<p>Now, take a minute and listen to our veteran agent, Howard Weissman, share his real-life experience with the Accelerated Death Benefit&#8230;“I’ll never forget that phone call from his wife&#8230;”</p>
<p><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/i46nN5OVBGE?rel=0&amp;showinfo=0" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p>
<h2><strong>Benefit Details </strong></h2>
<p>The Rider itself can&#8217;t be used as a savings account. In order to actually take advantage of the benefit you must be diagnosed with:</p>
<ol>
<li>Terminal Illness</li>
<li>Chronic Illness*</li>
<li>Critical Illness*</li>
</ol>
<p>*<em>While terminal illness has been an Accelerated Death Benefit feature on both term and permanent life insurance policies for many years, chronic and critical illness have been added primarily to permanent life insurance policies during the past few years. Few term life policies offer chronic and critical illness as Accelerated Death Benefit riders. That may change in the coming years.</em></p>
<h3>Terminal Illness</h3>
<p>Terminally ill means that you (the insured) has a medical condition resulting from bodily injury or disease, or both, which is expected to result in death within 12 months of diagnosis (most insurance companies go by 12 months). This is the most common accelerated death benefit feature available in life insurance policies nowadays and has been around for years.</p>
<h3><strong>Chronic Illness</strong></h3>
<p>Chronically ill means that you (the insured) are unable to perform, without substantial assistance from another person, at least two out of the six Activities of Daily Living. These activities include eating, bathing, dressing, toileting, continence, transferring (being able to stand up, walk across the room and sit back down), or requires substantial supervision by another person due to severe cognitive impairment.  This assistance is often referred to as <a href="https://www.accuquote.com/questions-and-answers/alternative-long-term-care-insurance/">long-term care</a> – and it is EXPENSIVE.</p>
<p>About 70% of people over the age of 65 will need access to long-term care at some point.</p>
<h3><strong>Critical Illness</strong></h3>
<p>Critically ill generally means that you (the insured) has been diagnosed with one or more of the following health conditions (conditions may vary among insurance carriers):</p>
<ul>
<li>Heart Attack</li>
<li>Stroke</li>
<li>Cancer</li>
<li>End-stage Renal Failure</li>
<li>Major Organ Transplant</li>
<li>Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)</li>
<li>Blindness</li>
<li>Paralysis</li>
</ul>
<p>The Accelerated Death Benefit can help make an already hard time, a little easier by not having to worry about finances, and instead, focus on making lasting memories.</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Now call us at <strong>800-442-9899</strong> and speak to a real person! (yes, we’re old school.) You have enough things to think about, so we’ve taken the stress out of shopping for life insurance.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Keep Reading and Learn How to Save Money for Life</strong></p>
<p><a href="https://www.accuquote.com/questions-and-answers/do-retirees-still-need-life-insurance/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Do retirees need life insurance?</a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.accuquote.com/real-life-stories/my-real-life-life-insurance-story/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">My real-life life insurance story</a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.accuquote.com/expert-advice/will-life-insurance-rates-increase-due-to-covid-19/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Will life insurance rates increase due to COVID?</a></p>
<h6 style="text-align: center;"></h6>
<h6 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #808080;"><em>Blog Policies</em></span></h6>
<h6><span style="color: #808080;"><em>Content, articles, information and opinions expressed on the AccuQuote Blog, whether provided by the authors or public visitors to the website, are provided to help consumers make informed decisions regarding their insurance needs and options. Opinions expressed in the articles are strictly those of the authors and may not represent the view of AccuQuote, its officers, employees, clients or the companies whose products are offered by AccuQuote.</em></span></h6>
<h6><span style="color: #808080;"><em>The information, content, and services provided on this site are not intended to be, and should not be construed as legal, tax, financial planning, or other professional advice.  Visitors to the site should look to and rely on their own professional advisors for such advice. </em></span></h6>
<h6><span style="color: #808080;"><em>AccuQuote will not be liable, under any circumstances and in any way, for any errors or omissions, loss or damage of any kind incurred as a result of use of any content posted on the AccuQuote Blog.  By visiting the AccuQuote Blog, you acknowledge and agree that you use the content at your own risk and bear all risks associated with your use of any content, including any reliance on the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of such content.</em></span></h6>
<h6><em><span style="color: #808080;">See also our website terms and conditions</span> <a href="https://www.accuquote.com/legal-disclaimer">Terms &amp; Conditions</a></em></h6>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.accuquote.com/expert-advice/life-insurance-benefits-the-accelerated-death-benefit/">Life Insurance Benefits: The Accelerated Death Rider</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.accuquote.com">AccuQuote</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
			<dc:creator>scheyney@accuquote.com (Byron Udell)</dc:creator></item>
		<item>
		<title>5 Retirement Tips that Don’t Include Wealth Management</title>
		<link>https://www.accuquote.com/expert-advice/5-retirement-tips-that-dont-include-wealth-management/</link>
		
		
		<pubDate>Tue, 11 Aug 2020 21:33:55 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Expert Advice]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[retire]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[retired people]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[retirement]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[retirement planning]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[stop working]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.accuquote.com/?p=21133</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Planning for retirement can be overwhelming. The preparation list is long and in many cases advises on financial health, but what’s not talked about is how to build your new life, how to maintain your emotional health, maneuvering government systems like social security and health insurance, and finally, taking advantage of senior discounts. This is...</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.accuquote.com/expert-advice/5-retirement-tips-that-dont-include-wealth-management/">5 Retirement Tips that Don’t Include Wealth Management</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.accuquote.com">AccuQuote</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Planning for retirement can be overwhelming. The preparation list is long and in many cases advises on financial health, but what’s not talked about is how to build your new life, how to maintain your emotional health, maneuvering government systems like social security and health insurance, and finally, taking advantage of senior discounts.</p>
<p>This is not your typical retirement guide filled with financial advice that doesn’t apply to you. We’ve created this guide to shine a light on the things that are not commonly addressed about retirement.</p>
<h3>Life Insurance</h3>
<p>This isn’t about wealth, this is about ensuring those you leave behind can simply pay to sundown your life. Burials, life celebrations, cremations, whatever it costs to execute your final wishes, it all costs money. The collection plate obviously isn’t an option, so consider final expense life insurance.</p>
<p>Final expense insurance requires no medical exam and can be very affordable. The purpose is not to make your loved ones wealthy. It simply exists to pay for your end of life wishes.</p>
<p>Learn more about <a href="https://www.accuquote.com/expert-advice/final-expense-life-insurance-everything-you-need-to-know/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">final expense life insurance</a> and leave a legacy you can be proud of.</p>
<h3>Employer Paid Legal Assistance</h3>
<p>If your employer offers this perk, take advantage of it. You’ll want to update or finalize your Will and draft a Power of Attorney. Also, if you own any property that you plan to sell as part of your retirement nest egg, they may be able to assist with real estate matters like the sale or purchase of a primary residence and/or any investment properties.</p>
<p>Understand that this type of legal assistance can help you avoid hundreds, if not thousands, in legal fees for simple matters like wills, PoA’s, etc. Also, participating in a plan does not preclude anyone from obtaining their own attorney for the same matters.</p>
<p>Learn more about your Power of Attorney options by clicking: <a href="https://www.elderlawanswers.com/powers-of-attorney-come-in-different-flavors-8217">https://www.elderlawanswers.com/powers-of-attorney-come-in-different-flavors-8217</a></p>
<h3>Social Security Office</h3>
<p>Applying for SSN benefits no longer involves taking a number at a government office and waiting for hours while seated in a cold hard chair. You can now apply online and manage the process over the phone.</p>
<p>While the Social Security Office has built an informative website, finding the information can be challenging. Below you’ll find direct links to the benefits application, age calculator and Medicare/Medicaid information. The Medicare/Medicaid information explains the coverage in an easily digestible way.</p>
<h4><em><br />
<strong>Apply for Medicare and/or Benefits</strong></em></h4>
<p>There&#8217;s lots of information available. Should you wish to learn before submitting an application, simply scroll below the blue “Apply for Retirement Benefits” and you&#8217;ll see a box called Learn.</p>
<p>Link: <a href="https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/retirement/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/retirement/</a></p>
<h4><em><br />
<strong>Medicare. The basics. </strong></em></h4>
<p>This digital booklet can be printed; however, it also contains clickable links within the PDF. The booklet does a great job of breaking down all of the ‘good to knows’ about the Medicare program along with additional resources you can explore. SocialSecurity.gov can also be found on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.</p>
<p>Link: <a href="https://www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10043.pdf">https://www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10043.pdf</a></p>
<h4><em><br />
<strong>Retirement Age Calculator</strong></em></h4>
<p>Understanding what your full retirement age is, goes a long way when planning your retirement budget. For example, if you were born after 1960 you’re full retirement age is 67. That means that at 67 years of age you’ll receive 100% of your benefits. However, if you want to begin receiving your benefits at the age of 65, you’ll only receive 86.7% of your total benefits.</p>
<p>Link: <a href="https://www.ssa.gov/planners/retire/ageincrease.html">https://www.ssa.gov/planners/retire/ageincrease.html</a></p>
<h4><em><br />
<strong>Medicaid FAQs</strong></em></h4>
<p>For those who wish to look into Medicaid, there is a great resource that can answer many, if not all, of your questions.</p>
<p>The medicaid.gov website has plenty of information if you’re interested in perusing. However the link below will take you directly to the Medicaid FAQs.</p>
<p>Link: <a href="https://www.medicaid.gov/medicaid-and-you/index.html">https://www.medicaid.gov/medicaid-and-you/index.html</a></p>
<h4><em><br />
</em><strong><em>SSI &amp; SSDI</em></strong></h4>
<p>For those who are disabled the Social Security office offers the Red Book (English &amp; Spanish). This 60 page guide summarizes employment supports for those with disabilities. Additionally, you can review how SSI can affect your eligibility for other government and state programs.</p>
<p>Red Book Link:  <a href="https://www.ssa.gov/redbook/">https://www.ssa.gov/redbook/</a></p>
<p>SSI &amp; Programs Link: <a href="https://www.ssa.gov/ssi/text-other-ussi.htm">https://www.ssa.gov/ssi/text-other-ussi.htm</a></p>
<h3><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-21137" src="https://www.accuquote.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/iStock-1167746345-300x200.jpg" alt="New Year celebration" width="610" height="406" srcset="https://www.accuquote.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/iStock-1167746345-300x200.jpg 300w, https://www.accuquote.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/iStock-1167746345-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://www.accuquote.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/iStock-1167746345-768x512.jpg 768w, https://www.accuquote.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/iStock-1167746345.jpg 1254w" sizes="(max-width: 610px) 100vw, 610px" /></h3>
<h3>Create Meaning in Life</h3>
<p>The shift into retirement can be bumpy if you haven’t emotionally planned. One day you have purpose in your work, you’ve got work friends, and you’re able to interact with the world simply by being part of the working world. Then, it’s gone.</p>
<p>While there is joy that you are free, you’ll soon complete your short-term bucket list, and then what? If your joy lies in your recliner and television that’s fine. But, for those of you who desire something more, here are some tips to build a new life focused on the joy you missed while working 40+ hours per week.</p>
<ul>
<li>Revive old friendships and nurture new ones. Every human being needs human connection to live a happy, emotionally balanced life. So, pick up the phone, knock on a door, say hello to strangers. Build a network of friends you want.</li>
<li>Do the work YOU want to do. You spent years perfecting your craft, now create new opportunities by offering it to those around you. Some ideas can include using your green thumb at the neighborhood garden, maybe the senior center needs a technology person to teach a beginner&#8217;s class, teach a fellow senior how to drive, teach a budgeting class – you’ve made it to retirement now teach someone else how to do it…the possibilities are endless.</li>
<li>Stay healthy. This isn’t just about not eating junk all the time. You need to move and keep your muscles strong. According to Healthinaging.org, “Over 80% of nursing home residents need help with 3 or more activities of daily living (ADL) such as dressing and bathing. About 90% of residents who are able to walk need assistance or supervision.”<br />
With strong muscles and bones you can maintain control of your life&#8230;and stay in your own home. So pause your show and get active!</li>
<li>Keep challenging your brain. Keeping your brain engaged and busy can help stave off dementia. A new hobby can be born from exercising your brain. Some ideas include finishing the degree you always wanted, reading a new genre, learning to swim, exploring horticulture, chess, activism (of any kind), word-working, glass blowing…it’s all up to you. It’s your new life!</li>
</ul>
<h3>Adhere to Your Budget</h3>
<p>Unless you plan on making extra cash with a part-time job as a barista, working at the library or possibly doing some contract work from home you’ll need to be mindful of how you spend. A fixed budget is just that – you get what you planned.</p>
<p>Overspending and racking up credit cards in your retirement is never a good plan. This doesn’t mean you have to forego all of the fun…remember, there are senior discounts!</p>
<p>Senior discounts are plentiful, you just have to know where to look. The following sites contain long lists of places that offer senior discounts.</p>
<p><em>Tech-Tip:</em><em> Save time when looking at long lists online. Simply hit CTRL + F, type in what you’re looking for (a restaurant name, specific airline, clothing store), hit enter then you’ll jump to the name you’ve searched and it will be highlighted. </em></p>
<ul>
<li>Frugal for Less: <a href="https://www.frugalforless.com/discounts-you-can-get-at-age-55/">https://www.frugalforless.com/discounts-you-can-get-at-age-55/</a></li>
<li>Brad’s Deals: <a href="https://www.bradsdeals.com/blog/senior-discounts">https://www.bradsdeals.com/blog/senior-discounts</a></li>
<li>The Senior List: <a href="https://www.theseniorlist.com/senior-discounts/">https://www.theseniorlist.com/senior-discounts/</a></li>
<li>Deal News: <a href="https://www.dealnews.com/features/discounts/senior-discounts/">https://www.dealnews.com/features/discounts/senior-discounts/</a></li>
</ul>
<p>There’s no shortage of advice on how to retire and we hope our 5 tips have helped you in some way. Remember, joy is created it doesn’t just happen. Having time to appreciate birds in flight, chirping crickets, a full harvest moon, ocean waves crashing on the beach…all of this brings joy. It’s up to you to open your eyes and take it all in.</p>
<p>Happy retirement!</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Keep Reading and Learn How to Save Money for Life</strong></p>
<p><a href="https://www.accuquote.com/expert-advice/second-to-die-life-insurance-who-needs-it/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Second-to-die life insurance. Who needs it?</a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.accuquote.com/expert-advice/is-long-term-care-life-insurance-right-for-you/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Long-term care life insurance. Is it right for you?</a></p>
<p class="title style-scope ytd-video-primary-info-renderer"><a href="https://youtu.be/Tywg0zYtfy4" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Grandparents: Lump-Sum Payouts or Costly Trusts?</a></p>
<h6><span style="color: #808080;"><em>Blog Policies</em></span></h6>
<h6><span style="color: #808080;"><em>Content, articles, information and opinions expressed on the AccuQuote Blog, whether provided by the authors or public visitors to the website, are provided to help consumers make informed decisions regarding their insurance needs and options. Opinions expressed in the articles are strictly those of the authors and may not represent the view of AccuQuote, its officers, employees, clients or the companies whose products are offered by AccuQuote.</em></span></h6>
<h6><span style="color: #808080;"><em>The information, content, and services provided on this site are not intended to be, and should not be construed as legal, tax, financial planning, or other professional advice.  Visitors to the site should look to and rely on their own professional advisors for such advice. </em></span></h6>
<h6><span style="color: #808080;"><em>AccuQuote will not be liable, under any circumstances and in any way, for any errors or omissions, loss or damage of any kind incurred as a result of use of any content posted on the AccuQuote Blog.  By visiting the AccuQuote Blog, you acknowledge and agree that you use the content at your own risk and bear all risks associated with your use of any content, including any reliance on the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of such content.</em></span></h6>
<h6><em><span style="color: #808080;">See also our website terms and conditions</span> <a href="https://www.accuquote.com/legal-disclaimer">Terms &amp; Conditions</a></em></h6>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.accuquote.com/expert-advice/5-retirement-tips-that-dont-include-wealth-management/">5 Retirement Tips that Don’t Include Wealth Management</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.accuquote.com">AccuQuote</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
			<dc:creator>scheyney@accuquote.com (Byron Udell)</dc:creator><enclosure length="-1" type="application/pdf" url="https://www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10043.pdf"/><itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit><itunes:subtitle>Planning for retirement can be overwhelming. The preparation list is long and in many cases advises on financial health, but what’s not talked about is how to build your new life, how to maintain your emotional health, maneuvering government systems like social security and health insurance, and finally, taking advantage of senior discounts. This is... The post 5 Retirement Tips that Don’t Include Wealth Management appeared first on AccuQuote.</itunes:subtitle><itunes:author>Byron Udell</itunes:author><itunes:summary>Planning for retirement can be overwhelming. The preparation list is long and in many cases advises on financial health, but what’s not talked about is how to build your new life, how to maintain your emotional health, maneuvering government systems like social security and health insurance, and finally, taking advantage of senior discounts. This is... The post 5 Retirement Tips that Don’t Include Wealth Management appeared first on AccuQuote.</itunes:summary><itunes:keywords>Term,life,insurance,Term,life,insurance,rates,Cheap,life,insurance,Term,insurance,Term,life,insurance,quote,Life,insurance,quotes,Life,insurance,policy,Term,lifeLife,insurance,company,AccuQuote,Byron,Udell,Annually,renewable,life,insurance,permanent,life</itunes:keywords></item>
		<item>
		<title>Critical Illness Insurance. It’s Needed More Often Than You Think.</title>
		<link>https://www.accuquote.com/expert-advice/critical-illness-insurance/</link>
		
		
		<pubDate>Thu, 04 Jun 2020 22:02:57 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Expert Advice]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[critical illness]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[critical illness insurance]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[illness]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.accuquote.com/?p=21122</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Do you know anyone who has suffered from cancer, a heart attack or a stroke? The answer is almost certainly “yes.” Consider these statistics: Every 34 seconds, someone in the U.S. will suffer from a coronary event Every 24 seconds, someone in the U.S. is diagnosed with cancer Every 40 seconds, someone in the U.S....</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.accuquote.com/expert-advice/critical-illness-insurance/">Critical Illness Insurance. It&#8217;s Needed More Often Than You Think.</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.accuquote.com">AccuQuote</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Do you know anyone who has suffered from cancer, a heart attack or a stroke? The answer is almost certainly “yes.” Consider these statistics:</p>
<ul>
<li>Every 34 seconds, someone in the U.S. will suffer from a coronary event</li>
<li>Every 24 seconds, someone in the U.S. is diagnosed with cancer</li>
<li>Every 40 seconds, someone in the U.S. has a stroke/heart attack</li>
</ul>
<h3>It could happen to you.</h3>
<p>If a serious illness DOES strike, there’s a good chance you’ll live through it. Now, check out the survival rates for some of the biggest critical illnesses:</p>
<ul>
<li>Stroke &#8211; 75%</li>
<li>Breast Cancer &#8211; 89%</li>
<li>Prostate Cancer &#8211; 98%</li>
<li>Skin Cancer (Melanoma) &#8211; 91%</li>
</ul>
<p>There&#8217;s more reason than ever before to think about what happens after your illness.</p>
<p>Are you financially prepared? Hint: Health insurance isn’t enough.</p>
<p>You may be thinking, “I have health insurance. I’ll be covered if anything happens.” Once again, let’s look at the numbers. <strong>The average out-of-pocket medical expense associated with suffering from a critical illness is $7,575</strong>, a recent report from Sun Life Financial reveals. If you have a heart attack, it’ll cost you around $14,000. A stroke costs about $17,000.</p>
<p>Plus, medical insurance doesn’t replace the income you lose while you’re unable to work because of your illness. It won’t pay the mortgage or buy food for your family.</p>
<p>In fact, nearly two-thirds of bankruptcies are the result of medical expenses, even though 78% of those filing for bankruptcy had health insurance according to a study by the National Critical Illness Risk Assessment Study, published by the American Association for Critical Illness Insurance.</p>
<h3>What is Critical Illness Insurance?</h3>
<p>Critical illness insurance (also referred to as catastrophic illness insurance) pays a lump sum cash benefit upon the first confirmed diagnosis of a covered illness, such as heart attack, stroke, cancer or HIV/AIDS.  The specific details about coverage may vary, depending on the plan you choose.</p>
<p>You may be eligible to collect the benefit, more than once, if you are diagnosed with multiple conditions. The benefit dollars can be used for things like:</p>
<ul>
<li>Your mortgage, auto loan or credit card payments</li>
<li>Your income and your spouse&#8217;s lost wages, if one or both of you has to stop working</li>
<li>Your extra medical costs &#8211; deductibles, prescriptions, out-of-network expenses, etc.</li>
<li>Your rehabilitation, training or education</li>
<li>Lodging expenses if you&#8217;re seeking medical attention outside of your area</li>
<li>Child care and nursing care</li>
<li>A relaxing vacation while you recover</li>
</ul>
<p>A critical illness insurance policy can be purchased to complement your existing health or disability insurance plan. Sometimes it is offered as a rider on a traditional life insurance policy.</p>
<h3>What does critical illness insurance cover?</h3>
<p>Most plans pay the benefit in the event of the following:</p>
<ul>
<li>Heart attack</li>
<li>Cancer</li>
<li>Coma</li>
<li>Stroke</li>
<li>Permanent paralysis due to a covered accident</li>
<li>Any major organ transplant</li>
<li>Coronary artery bypass surgery</li>
<li>Angioplasty</li>
<li>Eyesight, speech, or hearing impairment</li>
<li>End-stage kidney (renal) failure</li>
</ul>
<h3>What if you&#8217;re healthy and plan on staying that way?</h3>
<p>How many people plan on getting cancer or having a heart attack? No one does. And while none of us want to think about any of this, the reality is startling when you look at the numbers above.</p>
<p>Call us at <strong>800-442-9899</strong> to learn more about protecting yourself, your assets and your family with critical illness insurance coverage.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Keep Reading and Learn How to Save Money for Life</strong></p>
<p><a href="https://www.accuquote.com/expert-advice/is-long-term-care-life-insurance-right-for-you/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Is long term care insurance right for you?</a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.accuquote.com/expert-advice/types-of-life-insurance-the-basics/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Types of life insurance</a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.accuquote.com/questions-and-answers/can-i-get-life-insurance-if-im-not-a-u-s-citizen/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Can I get life insurance if I&#8217;m not a US citizen?</a></p>
<p><span style="color: #999999;"><em>Sources<br />
</em></span><span style="color: #808080;"><em>1. American Heart Association,&#8221;Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics – 2013 Update: A Report from the American Heart Association,&#8221; Circulation (December 12, 2013)</em></span><br />
<span style="color: #808080;"><em>2. American Cancer Society</em></span><br />
<span style="color: #808080;"><em>3.University of Maryland Medical Center, http://umm.edu/health/medical/reports/articles/stroke</em></span><br />
<span style="color: #808080;"><em>4. www.cancer.gov/statistics/find</em></span><br />
<span style="color: #808080;"><em>5. Sun Life Financial Critical Illness report, 2013</em></span><br />
<span style="color: #808080;"><em>6. National Critical Illness Risk Assessment Study, American Association for Critical Illness Insurance</em></span></p>
<h6><span style="color: #808080;"><em>Blog Policies</em></span></h6>
<h6><span style="color: #808080;"><em>Content, articles, information and opinions expressed on the AccuQuote Blog, whether provided by the authors or public visitors to the website, are provided to help consumers make informed decisions regarding their insurance needs and options. Opinions expressed in the articles are strictly those of the authors and may not represent the view of AccuQuote, its officers, employees, clients or the companies whose products are offered by AccuQuote.</em></span></h6>
<h6><span style="color: #808080;"><em>The information, content, and services provided on this site are not intended to be, and should not be construed as legal, tax, financial planning, or other professional advice.  Visitors to the site should look to and rely on their own professional advisors for such advice. </em></span></h6>
<h6><span style="color: #808080;"><em>AccuQuote will not be liable, under any circumstances and in any way, for any errors or omissions, loss or damage of any kind incurred as a result of use of any content posted on the AccuQuote Blog.  By visiting the AccuQuote Blog, you acknowledge and agree that you use the content at your own risk and bear all risks associated with your use of any content, including any reliance on the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of such content.</em></span></h6>
<h6><em><span style="color: #808080;">See also our website terms and conditions</span> <a href="https://www.accuquote.com/legal-disclaimer">Terms &amp; Conditions</a></em></h6>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.accuquote.com/expert-advice/critical-illness-insurance/">Critical Illness Insurance. It&#8217;s Needed More Often Than You Think.</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.accuquote.com">AccuQuote</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
			<dc:creator>scheyney@accuquote.com (Byron Udell)</dc:creator></item>
		<item>
		<title>Is Long Term Care Life Insurance Right for You?</title>
		<link>https://www.accuquote.com/expert-advice/is-long-term-care-life-insurance-right-for-you/</link>
		
		
		<pubDate>Mon, 04 May 2020 16:53:43 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Expert Advice]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[illness]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[long term care]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Long term care insurance]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[special care]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.accuquote.com/?p=21113</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Did you know that 70 PERCENT of people over age 65 will need long term care? And there’s a 91 PERCENT chance that either you or your spouse will need long term care…at some point. That’s why there is Long Term Care Insurance. Since the early 1970s, Long Term Care insurance has helped many families...</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.accuquote.com/expert-advice/is-long-term-care-life-insurance-right-for-you/">Is Long Term Care Life Insurance Right for You?</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.accuquote.com">AccuQuote</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Did you know that 70 PERCENT of people over age 65 will need long term care? And there’s a 91 PERCENT chance that either you or your spouse will need long term care…at some point. That’s why there is Long Term Care Insurance.</p>
<p>Since the early 1970s, Long Term Care insurance has helped many families financially deal with the high cost of long term care. A traditional Long Term Care policy can help you pay some of the high medical costs that are associated with delivering this type of special care (home health care, assisted living expenses, nursing home confinement, etc.), which can run as high as $150,000 a year.</p>
<p>Long Term Care (LTC) is defined as needing assistance with the basic Activities of Daily Living (ADL), which include:</p>
<p>• Eating<br />
• Dressing<br />
• Bathing<br />
• Toileting<br />
• Continence<br />
• Transferring</p>
<h2>How does it work?</h2>
<p>With an LTC rider, the life insurance death benefit is like a pot of money.  It can be used for LTC or it goes to your family (a win-win) when you die. Watch Byron as he explains how this product can help save you, and your nest egg.</p>
<p><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/sgLt9leyekQ?rel=0&amp;showinfo=0" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"><span data-mce-type="bookmark" style="display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;" class="mce_SELRES_start">﻿</span></iframe></p>
<p>As Bryon stated, traditional Long Term Care coverage on its own is expensive and premiums can and do increase from time to time, as they are not guaranteed. Plus, since these policies don’t accumulate cash value there’s no partial refund or cashback should you decide to cancel the policy. And if you want to get the best rates, you need to buy this type of product when you’re young and healthy.</p>
<p>However, while traditional Long Term Care insurance has its drawbacks, there are other options.</p>
<h2>Long Term Care Coverage as a Rider</h2>
<p>The choice is yours; however, here are some compelling reasons why <strong><em>you should explore purchasing long term care insurance</em></strong> in the form of a <strong><em>rider added to your life policy:</em></strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Live-in care can cost $200 a day and a nursing home can be up to $300 a day (and that’s today; it’ll only cost more years from now)—that’s as much as $219,000 a year if both you and your spouse need care simultaneously. Without long term care insurance, that financial burden could fall to your kids or other loved ones (that is, after your savings have been completely wiped out!)</li>
<li>Standalone long term care insurance can be costly, and the rates can increase at any time; LTC rider premiums are guaranteed NOT to increase as long as your policy is in force.</li>
<li>There’s a 90-day waiting period before traditional long term care insurance policies will begin paying your benefit. This is NOT the case with many LTC rider policies.</li>
<li>Premiums could be WASTED if you buy a standalone policy and never file a claim.</li>
<li>A long term care rider is a surprisingly affordable addition to a traditional life insurance policy.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Long Term Care Products</h2>
<p>Several insurance carriers offer products that are more flexible for consumers concerned about planning for their possible future LTC needs. They’re called “hybrid” policies. A hybrid policy combines the best parts of two different types of products into a single policy.</p>
<p>A Long Term Care/Life Insurance hybrid policy can pay for long-term care that regular health insurance or Medicare doesn’t cover. Sales of such hybrid polices have doubled since 2008, to more than $2.4 billion in 2016, according to the Life Insurance and Market Research Association (LIMRA).</p>
<p><strong>Two basic LTC hybrid policies</strong></p>
<p><strong>Life insurance with an Accelerated Death Benefit Rider</strong> – This type of hybrid policy doesn’t technically deliver long-term care coverage. It hastens the delivery of your life insurance policy’s death benefit, so YOU can personally prosper from it, instead of your beneficiaries. The benefits of this particular type of rider are essentially the same as a standard, separate Accelerated Death Benefit policy. This specific type of rider is not offered by all insurance carriers.</p>
<p><strong>Life insurance with LTC Rider</strong> – This type of hybrid policy does offer LTC-style benefits but costs more. Policies are available in both single-premium and pay-as-you-go designs. The healthier you are, the less you’ll pay in premiums. If you don’t end up using the LTC benefits, the pot of money those policies create is simply paid out to your beneficiaries at your death.</p>
<p>These LTC riders generally are only available with Permanent Life policies, such as Universal Life, Indexed Universal Life, and Whole Life.</p>
<p>Now that you&#8217;ve got the facts, call us at 800-442-9899 and speak to a real person! (yes, we’re old school.) You have enough things to think about, so we’ve taken the stress out of shopping for life insurance.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Keep Reading and Learn How to Save Money for Life</strong></p>
<p><a href="https://www.accuquote.com/expert-advice/video-universal-life-insurance-what-is-it/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Universal life insurance. What is it?</a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.accuquote.com/expert-advice/video-whole-life-insurance-the-myths-and-facts/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Whole life. The myths and facts.</a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.accuquote.com/expert-advice/rate-class-how-much-will-you-pay/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Rate class. How much will you pay?</a></p>
<h6><span style="color: #808080;"><em>Blog Policies</em></span></h6>
<h6><span style="color: #808080;"><em>Content, articles, information and opinions expressed on the AccuQuote Blog, whether provided by the authors or public visitors to the website, are provided to help consumers make informed decisions regarding their insurance needs and options. Opinions expressed in the articles are strictly those of the authors and may not represent the view of AccuQuote, its officers, employees, clients or the companies whose products are offered by AccuQuote.</em></span></h6>
<h6><span style="color: #808080;"><em>The information, content, and services provided on this site are not intended to be, and should not be construed as legal, tax, financial planning, or other professional advice.  Visitors to the site should look to and rely on their own professional advisors for such advice. </em></span></h6>
<h6><span style="color: #808080;"><em>AccuQuote will not be liable, under any circumstances and in any way, for any errors or omissions, loss or damage of any kind incurred as a result of use of any content posted on the AccuQuote Blog.  By visiting the AccuQuote Blog, you acknowledge and agree that you use the content at your own risk and bear all risks associated with your use of any content, including any reliance on the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of such content.</em></span></h6>
<h6><em><span style="color: #808080;">See also our website terms and conditions</span> <a href="https://www.accuquote.com/legal-disclaimer">Terms &amp; Conditions</a></em></h6>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.accuquote.com/expert-advice/is-long-term-care-life-insurance-right-for-you/">Is Long Term Care Life Insurance Right for You?</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.accuquote.com">AccuQuote</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
			<dc:creator>scheyney@accuquote.com (Byron Udell)</dc:creator></item>
		<item>
		<title>3 Types of Annuities to Consider When Investing</title>
		<link>https://www.accuquote.com/expert-advice/3-types-of-annuities-to-consider/</link>
		
		
		<pubDate>Fri, 24 Apr 2020 21:10:38 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Expert Advice]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[guaranteed income]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[investing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[investment tool]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[low risk]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[savings]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.accuquote.com/?p=21116</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>If you&#8217;re here, you likely know that an annuity is a relatively low-risk insurance product that pays you money, either for the rest of your life or for a set number of years. They are a popular investment option for those who prefer to have a steady flow of future income, especially as part of...</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.accuquote.com/expert-advice/3-types-of-annuities-to-consider/">3 Types of Annuities to Consider When Investing</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.accuquote.com">AccuQuote</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>If you&#8217;re here, you likely know that an annuity is a relatively low-risk insurance product that pays you money, either for the rest of your life or for a set number of years. They are a popular investment option for those who prefer to have a steady flow of future income, especially as part of their retirement plans.</p>
<p>Here’s a look at the 3 types of annuities which are available through AccuQuote:</p>
<h2>Immediate Annuity</h2>
<p>If you’re looking for payments that begin right away and continue for the rest of your life or for a specified period of time (sometimes called a Single Premium Immediate Annuity or SPIA) might be right for you. This type of annuity is purchased with a single, lump-sum amount. In return for your one-time premium, the insurance company promises to make regular payments to you (or another person you specify) for a chosen length of time or for the rest of your life.</p>
<p><strong>Why consider an Immediate Annuity?</strong></p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Secure </strong>— Stable and guaranteed income.  If you’re at all worried about outliving your savings, this may be a great option for you.</li>
<li><strong>Simple &amp; Safe</strong> — With an immediate annuity, you do not need to watch markets or track interest rates and dividends.  Just collect your regular payments.</li>
<li><strong>Higher Returns</strong> — Interest rates used by insurance companies to calculate immediate annuity income may be higher than CD or Treasury rates.</li>
<li><strong>Preferred Tax Treatment</strong> — An immediate annuity may be a good strategy to help defer taxes until later in your retirement when you may be in a lower tax bracket. (Other types of annuities “front load” taxes)</li>
<li><strong>No Sales or Administrative Charges</strong> — Immediate annuities generally do not have annual account management or maintenance charges.  In other words, 100% of your premium goes toward your monthly income and finds its way back to you!</li>
</ul>
<h2>Fixed Deferred Annuity</h2>
<p>A fixed deferred annuity (sometimes called a Single Premium Deferred Annuity or SPDA) helps you earn interest safely and allows you to postpone the payment of income taxes on your earnings until you begin taking payments.</p>
<p>Fixed differed annuities may have higher interest rates than competing investments, such as CDs.</p>
<p>A fixed annuity isn’t subject to stock market fluctuations and can be utilized as a savings vehicle. <strong><em>They are</em></strong> <strong><em>often compared to CD’s because they </em></strong><strong><em>allow your money to grow safely with low risk and a guaranteed rate of interest. </em></strong> And even historically, they’ve often exceeded the average rate available on bank CD’s.   And while annuities aren’t backed by FDIC insurance like most bank accounts, they ARE backed by the full faith and credit of some of the largest and most financially stable insurance companies in the world. So, YES, they are SAFE!</p>
<p>What’s more, the interest you earn each year on your annuity is TAX-DEFERRED, which means that, unlike CDs, money market and savings accounts, you don’t pay tax on the interest you earn…<em>until you withdraw the money. </em></p>
<p>And, one of the best features of an annuity is that <strong><em>you have the option, at ANY time, to elect a LIFETIME monthly income that you CANNOT outlive. </em></strong><strong><em><u>No bank account can do that!</u></em></strong></p>
<p><strong>Why consider a Fixed Deferred Annuity?</strong></p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Guaranteed Principal –</strong>You can’t lose your money unless the insurance company fails. In the unlikely event this occurs, there is regulatory protection for annuity holders. Your money is safe in a Fixed Deferred Annuity, which can reduce the overall risk of your investment portfolio.</li>
<li><strong>Guaranteed Minimum Interest Rate</strong> – Your money NEVER earns less than the guaranteed minimum rate.</li>
<li><strong>Annual Withdrawals</strong> – Most contracts let you withdraw up to 10 percent of the value of the annuity every year with no penalty (if you’re younger than age 59-1/2, however, you may owe an IRS penalty).</li>
<li><strong>Death Benefits</strong> – If you die while owning the annuity, your money (including the interest you’ve earned up to your death) goes to your beneficiaries</li>
<li><strong>Income Option</strong> – You can convert the value of a fixed annuity to a guaranteed income stream for a specific number of years or for as long as you (or you and your spouse) are alive</li>
<li><strong>Preferred Tax Treatment</strong> – You can delay paying taxes on the interest you earn until you begin making withdrawals.</li>
<li><strong>Invest as Much as You Want</strong> – There are no government-set upper limit on contributions, unlike a 401(k) or IRA. Insurance companies may set their own limits on minimum and maximum contributions.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>How about an example?</strong></p>
<p>Let’s imagine that you’ve purchased a 20-year fixed deferred annuity for $100,000. Let’s say the agreement offers 3% interest over the period of the annuity. It is set to begin giving you monthly payments on January 1, 2016. You would receive $554.60/month until the end of the 20-year term on December 31, 2035.</p>
<h2>Indexed Annuity</h2>
<p>An indexed annuity earns interest or provides benefits that are linked to an external reference. The S&amp;P 500 is a commonly used index. The value of any index varies from day to day and is not predictable.</p>
<p>When you buy an indexed annuity, you own an insurance contract. You are not buying shares of any stock.</p>
<p>An indexed annuity is a fixed annuity, but it’s different from other fixed annuities because of the way it credits interest to your annuity’s value. Some fixed annuities only credit interest calculated at a rate set in the contract. Other fixed annuities also credit interest at rates set from time to time by the insurance company. Indexed annuities credit interest using a formula based on changes in the index it’s linked to. How much interest you get and when you get it depends on the features of your particular annuity.</p>
<p>Your indexed annuity, like other fixed annuities, also promises to pay a minimum interest rate, even if the index-linked interest rate performs lower. The value of your annuity also never drops below a guaranteed minimum.</p>
<p>To learn more about this amazing financial product and talk with an experienced professional about which annuity is best for you, call<strong> 800-442-9899</strong><strong>. <em> </em></strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Keep Reading and Learn How to Save Money for Life</strong></p>
<p><a href="https://www.accuquote.com/expert-advice/annuities-can-be-a-great-investment-tool/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Annuities can be a great investment tool</a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.accuquote.com/expert-advice/how-much-life-insurance-do-i-need/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">How much life insurance do I need?</a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.accuquote.com/expert-advice/what-is-term-life-insurance/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">What is term life insurance?</a></p>
<h6><span style="color: #808080;"><em>Blog Policies</em></span></h6>
<h6><span style="color: #808080;"><em>Content, articles, information and opinions expressed on the AccuQuote Blog, whether provided by the authors or public visitors to the website, are provided to help consumers make informed decisions regarding their insurance needs and options. Opinions expressed in the articles are strictly those of the authors and may not represent the view of AccuQuote, its officers, employees, clients or the companies whose products are offered by AccuQuote.</em></span></h6>
<h6><span style="color: #808080;"><em>The information, content, and services provided on this site are not intended to be, and should not be construed as legal, tax, financial planning, or other professional advice.  Visitors to the site should look to and rely on their own professional advisors for such advice. </em></span></h6>
<h6><span style="color: #808080;"><em>AccuQuote will not be liable, under any circumstances and in any way, for any errors or omissions, loss or damage of any kind incurred as a result of use of any content posted on the AccuQuote Blog.  By visiting the AccuQuote Blog, you acknowledge and agree that you use the content at your own risk and bear all risks associated with your use of any content, including any reliance on the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of such content.</em></span></h6>
<h6><em><span style="color: #808080;">See also our website terms and conditions</span> <a href="https://www.accuquote.com/legal-disclaimer">Terms &amp; Conditions</a></em></h6>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.accuquote.com/expert-advice/3-types-of-annuities-to-consider/">3 Types of Annuities to Consider When Investing</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.accuquote.com">AccuQuote</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
			<dc:creator>scheyney@accuquote.com (Byron Udell)</dc:creator></item>
	</channel>
</rss>