Blog Posts

By Jessica Searcy Kmetty

There is a confidence “gap” when it comes to women taking charge of their finances, and the lack of confidence and action could leave women vulnerable in many situations.

Over half of American women say they have no idea where to begin when it comes to taking an active role in their financial decision making and only about 20% report feeling prepared to make wise financial decisions.

A wave of empowerment is running through mainstream media these days. Women are preaching to the younger generations to NOT let a partner control the financial decisions, not rely on a partner or parent for money, and to take an active role in the financial management of their family. With increasing lifespans, higher divorce rates and women not marrying as often, more than 80% of women may face being solely responsible for their own financial wellbeing.

By Jessica Searcy Kmetty

Experiencing a divorce is rarely something couples expect to face. When I was first married at age 19, I had visions of what it would be like to celebrate my 50th anniversary. I pictured a large party with our friends and family, cakes and grandkids and maybe even great grandkids. I remember sighing a breath of relief at our 8th anniversary because we had made it through the infamous “seven-year itch” with three small children.

But alas, there are two people in every relationship, and despite all efforts, my marriage fell apart and we divorced after 18 years, splitting up assets and spending thousands of dollars in attorney’s fees in the process.

Making a mistake with life insurance can hurt the ones you love most. Fortunately, with some advance preparation and careful thought, these costly errors may be avoided. Here are some of the most common life insurance pitfalls we see:

Many Americans are in their second and third marriages. In fact, statistics from a 2012 book, The Remarriage Blueprint, suggest that nearly 40 percent of new marriages include at least one previously married spouse. Remarrying later in life can produce a number of complex financial, legal, and emotional matters that should be addressed as soon as possible. If you or someone you love is part of a blended family, we urge you to think about these important issues.