Structured Settlements 4Real®Blog 2026

Structured settlements expert John Darer reviews the latest structured settlements and settlement planning information and news, and provides expert opinion and highly regarded commentary. that is spicy, Informative, irreverent and effective for over 20 years.

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The STRUCTURED SETTLEMENTS 4REAL® Blog is a highly regarded source for structured settlement news, information, and commentary, led by structured settlement and settlement planning subect mater expert John Darer CLU ChFC MSSC CeFT RSP CLTC. With two decades of operation, the blog and 4structures.com are recognized as comprehensive resources, offering detailed guides and specialized insights. Established in 2005, the blog caters to a broad audience, including legal professionals, injured individuals, families, and various stakeholders, providing reviews and opinions on settlement planning. John Darer, President of 4structures.com LLC, is a seasoned structured settlement expert with over 40 years of financial services experience and 31 years specializing in structured settlements. Based in Stamford, CT, he is a Certified Financial Transitionist and Registered Settlement Planner, holding insurance licenses in 45 states and the District of Columbia. John Darer is dedicated to transparency and advocacy, he emphasizes the importance of engaging trained and licensed professionals for settlement planning, offering valuable insights through his investigative journalism and professional commentary.

Category: ChFC

ChFC, which stands for Chartered Financial Consultant, is a professional designation awarded by The American College of Financial Services in Bryn Mawr PA, an institution accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) and in operation since its founding by Solomon Huebner in 1919.

  • Chartered Financial Consultant® Program Aims “To Put More Distance Between It and Other Credentials in The Field”

    Chartered Financial Consultant® Program Aims “To Put More Distance Between It and Other Credentials in The Field”

    The American College has enhanced the Chartered Financial Consultant® (ChFC®) designation, now requiring nine college-level courses starting October 1, 2009. This includes elements of the CFP certification and specialized electives. Established in 1982, the ChFC® signifies a high standard of knowledge in financial planning, distinct from the CFP credential.

  • Understanding Professional Designations in Settlement Planning

    Understanding Professional Designations in Settlement Planning

    John Darer’s article emphasizes the importance of professional designations in structured settlements and settlement planning. He highlights credentials like CLU, ChFC, CSSC, and MSSC, which signify extensive training and expertise in financial planning and structured settlements. Continuing education is essential for professionals to remain informed in this specialized field.

  • CSSC Sponsor NSSTA Must Add CE Requirement Now!

    New rules proposed by the State of Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services designed  to protect consumers might lead to some additional "white space" on the business cards of settlement professionals. 836-080-0160 (NEW  September 14, 2009)  Use of Special Certifications and Professional Designations by Insurance Producers (1) A person may not use a certification…