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: Kansas City Settlement Planning

Co‑Signing Without Signing: The Hidden Credit Traps That Can Derail Settlement Payees

February 28, 2026

The article discusses the dangers of hidden credit entanglements that can harm individuals, particularly injury victims and settlement payees. Co-signing occurs informally through arrangements like shared phone plans and utility accounts, leading to significant credit damage. This vulnerability is exploited by predatory actors, creating a cycle of financial distress and manipulation.
Split Funding Structured Settlements: Key Considerations

May 4, 2022

When using split funding a structured settlement in any combination, whether a duration split, carrier split, or a product split structured settlement design , it’s a good idea to have a summary delivered to the plaintift.
California Settlement Planner’s Scary Declaration Supporting Convoluted QSF and “In Force Annuities” Pitch

June 6, 2021

A deep dive into just how settlement planners have marketed other people’s structured settlement payments as investments, to trial lawyers, their injured clients, conservators, trustees and the Courts has revealed some pretty scary stuff that should give judges, fiduciaries and lawyers pause.
Long Term Care Solutions Summit 2014

May 20, 2014

As a settlement expert, long-term care and extended care naturally align with planning requirements in certain personal injury cases, extending to a wider scope that encompasses the lives of stakeholders and their families involved in these cases.
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.