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.

Category: Metairie Structured Settlements

Commentary by structured settlement expert John Darer that may be of interest to injured persons, guardians, consumers, lawyers, businesses in Metairie LA with personal injury or wrongful death claims in Louisiana.

  • 🎉 Happy Birthday, MetLife — 158 Years Strong

    MetLife, founded in 1868, has demonstrated exceptional durability in the financial sector, surviving numerous economic challenges while remaining a reliable presence in structured settlements. Its 158-year history showcases adaptability, stability, and ongoing relevance in an industry marked by change. Happy birthday, MetLife, for continuing to evolve and thrive.

  • Discover Pacific Life’s Payout Plus: Index-Based Growth

    Payout Plus is a new structured settlements annuity option from Pacific Life that enhances financial stability and growth opportunities for claimants. By offering indexed-based payments, it provides a guaranteed minimum with potential fluctuations, catering to those receiving personal injury or workers’ compensation settlements, while promoting financial resilience and flexibility.

  • “You’ve Got a Structured Settlement—Now What? A Teen’s Guide to Protecting Your Money, Your Privacy, and Your Future”

    The blog addresses structured settlements, designed to provide long-term financial security through regular payments instead of a lump sum after lawsuits or claims. Aimed at teens and young adults, it highlights the importance of understanding these settlements, avoiding scams, and considering alternatives to selling them for immediate cash.

  • Taxable Equivalent Yield Explained for Structured Settlements

    The article discusses the misleading nature of high “rate of return” claims in structured settlement proposals, often characterized by terms like “tax-free rate” versus “taxable equivalent yield.” It emphasizes the importance of accurately understanding Internal Rate of Return (IRR) calculations, noting that different cash flows may yield varying results.

  • What’s a Certified Structured Settlement Consultant?

    John Darer reviews the Certified Structured Settlement Consultant (CSSC) designation, earned by completing a program by the National Structured Settlements Trade Association and the University of Texas at Austin. The CSSC program, established in 1994, requires 60+ hours of study, work experience, and passing an exam, ensuring expertise in structured settlements.

  • Structured Settlement Transparency & Ethics

    4structures.com LLC has a long established practice of transparency. Such transparency is embodied in a written statement on our website as well as a case specific declaration or affidavit to accompany moving papers where a proposed structured settlement must be approved by a judge.

  • What is “Period Certain and Life” or “Period Certain” in an Annuity?

    Period Certain in an annuity, means the number of years that the payments will be paid regardless of whether or not the payee of the structured settlement annuity (or retirement annuity) survives the entire payment schedule.

  • Are Structured Settlements Really TAX-FREE?

    The claim that structured settlements are “tax-free” is misleading. While most structured settlement payments are exempt from federal and state income taxes, other taxes, such as estate taxes and certain excise taxes, may apply. Advertisements must accurately convey these nuances to avoid deception according to federal regulations.