Planning for retirement has been difficult over the past few years. Market uncertainty, lower real property prices, and for some, job losses or stagnant salaries have made it more difficult to save and invest for a solid financial future. A financial professional is the best choice.
A financial professional will help you save, grow, and invest your money while protecting your family, business, and standard of living. What are the best ways to find a financial professional who is right for you?
1. Consider the philosophy and approach of your retirement planner. A professional who believes that permanent life insurance is a crucial part of a financial plan in today’s uncertain financial climate should be considered.
Permanent life insuranceThis provides a safety net in case of the unthinkable. The death benefit will give you the assurance that your family or company is well protected. The cash accumulation potential of permanent insurance can be used to fund a second career, help pay for grandchild’s education, or add revenue streams to retirement. Permanent life insurance can also allow other elements of your financial plan, like annuities, investments, or disability insurance, the ability to do their job.*
2. It is important to ensure that the financial professional has the right education and training. These are the top qualifications to look out for:
* Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU) — an insurance designation often held by those who specialize in life insurance and estate planning and given by The American College, a nonprofit dedicated to educating individuals in financial services.
* Certified Financial Planner (CFP) — a designation given and governed by the Certified Finacial Planner Board of Standards.
* Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC) — a designation on par with the CFP, also given by The American College.
3. You should feel comfortable with your financial professional and their communication with clients. This can be done by scheduling an in person meeting at their office.
* What is your approach to retirement planning?
* How often will I have the opportunity to meet in person to make sure my plan can adjust as my life evolves?
* What is the average length of your relationships with clients?
* Will you offer options and help me compare risks, costs and benefits?
* How will you communicate with me about my finances?
Visit this page to learn more about how to work with a financial advisor in order maximize the value of life insurance. www.PennMutual.com.
* All guarantees are based on the claims paying ability of the issuer. Accessing cash-values could result in surrender fees or charges. It may also require additional premium payments to continue coverage. The death benefit, as well as policy values, will be reduced. All examples are hypothetical and meant to be illustrative only. Individual results may vary.
