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: Infant Settlement Planning

Structured Settlement Rate Lock-in | An Important Settlement Tool

October 3, 2013

A structured settlement lock-in protects against interest rate shifts for brokers and planners at case resolution. It guarantees specific payment streams, often without fees for short periods. Lock-ins enhance satisfaction and funding security, especially for minors or wrongful death settlements. Absence of a lock-in risks delays and potential financial losses.
Some NY Infants Comp Structured Settlement Documents Belong in the Arts & Crafts Shop

March 22, 2011

When it comes to structured settlement documents, leave your cookie cutter in your kitchen and the scissors and glue in the arts and crafts box. “It’s the way we’ve always done it” doesn’t mean “it has always been done” correctly.
Minimum Size Structured Settlement For Minor’s Personal Injury Settlements

January 23, 2011

I am not downplaying the benefits of structured settlements for minors. I’m saying let’s get real with the application of structured settlements for minors.
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act | PL 94-142 What a Great IDEA it was!

November 30, 2010

Years ago, before IDEA, children with disabilities were referred to in legal decisions as imbeciles. If a child was mentally retarded, by statute, the child had no right to an education. If a child was in a wheelchair, the child was a fire hazard and excluded from public school.
Chartered Financial Consultant® Program Aims “To Put More Distance Between It and Other Credentials in The Field”

February 3, 2009

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.
Court Approval Process for Minors’ Structured Settlements in Louisiana

July 15, 2008

On July 15, 2008, Louisiana Governor, Bobby Jindal signed HB133 a bill favorable to structured settlements and judgments in favor of children. The bill provided an amendment and reenactment of Article 4521 to Code of Civil Procedure and enacted Articles 4272(C) and 4522.