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: Scranton 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.
AIG Structured Settlements: Livingston County New York Lawyer’s Misnomer

December 7, 2018

Kevin Van Allen, an attorney, criticized structured settlements involving AIG, suggesting they disadvantage clients. However, this claim overlooks factual details, such as AIG’s role as a qualified assignment company and protections under New York law. While risks exist, structured settlements generally benefit both parties. AIG has since restructured as Corebridge Financial.
Index-Linked Structured Settlements for Minors Catch The Eye of New York Judges

August 24, 2015

New York judges are approving Pacific Life and Annuity index-linked structured settlement payment adjustment riders for minors in an Infant Compromise, as part of a proposed settlement planning allocation to complement fixed rate structured settlements
IRS Guidelines on IRA Withdrawals for Disabled Individuals

July 8, 2009

IRS has issued Chief Counsel advice 200922041 which offers guidance on the meaning of “disabled” as it relates to IRC 72(m)(7), the disability exception to the 10%, pre 59 1/2 distribution penalties from IRAs and annuities (the use of “annuities” in this case does not include structured settlement annuities).
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.