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: Montpelier Structured Settlements

  • Taxable Equivalent Yield Explained for Structured Settlements

    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.

  • Vermont LHGA to Exclude Structured Settlement Receivables Investors from Insurance Protections

    Vermont LHGA to Exclude Structured Settlement Receivables Investors from Insurance Protections

    Acquired structured settlement payment rights are not snnuities or insurance products.While insurance insolvencies are rare, they do happen. Investors are exposed when they invest in such receivables. I doubt that many of them are aware of this exposure. 

  • Is Structured Settlement COLA Taxable?

    Is Structured Settlement COLA Taxable?

    A Structured Settlement COLA, or Cost Of Living Adjustment, is a fixed annual increase in future payments, elected before settlement finalization. While typically non-taxable, certain scenarios—like variable income streams or taxable damages—may incur tax liabilities. Recent developments include new index-linked structured settlement options by various insurers.