Here are 27 reasons why I love working from home and would never want to trade my work-at-home status for anything. I can be here for my kids and manage my time so when we're together it's quality time.I am more productive.It's easier to plan time to exercise.I don't have to commute.I make my hours and can always find time to get things done, even if it's in the middle of the night.Some of my days are immensely challenging, and I love every minute of it.I don't have to deal with innocent, but still inaccessible websites due to company firewalls.It's easier to schedule personal and household appointments during the day without losing out on work time.I find my home-based work environment significantly less stressful than any of the corporate jobs I've had in my life.I have more time to volunteer and spend time on my personal causes.I can schedule downtime, days off and vacation when it's convenient for me.I eat healthier (and save money at the same time).I don't have to worry about "big brother" watching over my shoulder.I am in complete control of my own income.My pets love the extra attention they get during the day.No office politics (well, for the most part).Weekends in my household are usually less chaotic because many of the usual weekend errands and tasks can be done during the week.I get to do what I love to do every single day.There are tax advantages because I can deduct some of my home's operating expenses as business expenses.I can use whatever OS, platforms and software I want.I can wear comfortable clothes (no, I never work in my PJs!).I have more time to get actively involved in networking, conferences and other professional development activities.I get to make dinner for my kids every night and not have to worry about making it home on time.I've learned a tremendous amount about business and personal finances and financial planning.I get to choose my clients and not have them assigned to me.When I need to work from somewhere else, I can take my office with me.I'm fulfilling every dream I've ever had in terms of work success and being my own boss.A real product that is in great demandA 6.2 trillion dollar industryA business in which I don't have to do my own selling (if that is not my strength)A business in which I can be rewarded for my selling abilities (if that is my strength)A business in which I can be paid for referring other to a product I believe inA business that pays thousands of dollars for acquisition of a single clientA business I can run from home, online (or out in the field if I choose)A business that can earn me 6 figures (even part time) and moreA business model that attracts others, rather me chasing themA business that that has been around for 100 years and will be there for the next 100A business in which I can build equity as well as a massive residual incomeA business in which 'average' people are seeing a high success rateA business with a mission--in which I can make a difference ...read more

Annuities and Annuities agents have a bad reputation. In some cases it is well deserved. There are agents who do a poor job of explaining the features, limitations and costs associated with annuities.Let’s examine some of the reasons why you shouldn’t buy annuities:Lack of Liquidity: True- Annuities have this limitation. If you wish to withdraw your funds prior to age 59.5 you will likely be subject to early withdrawal penalties, taxes and fees. Keep in mind many retirement accounts also have this limitation. Ironically setting up an annuity is one way to access an IRA account without an early withdrawal penalty.High Fees: True sometimes- There are several different types of Annuities and the associated costs and fees can vary greatly by type and carrier. In general the more complicated the investment choices the higher the fees. Variable annuities are an expensive way to invest in the stock market.Taxes: Partially True– Annuities grow tax deferred and the earnings are taxed at ordinary rates upon withdrawal which could be higher or lower depending on your tax bracket during retirement. In addition the increase in value does not get a step up in basis upon death.Low Interest Rates: True- Current annuity rates are at the low end of historical rates. The same can be said about CD and Bond rates. That said there are guaranteed annuities that provide higher returns than both CD’s and Bonds. Why would I buy an annuity?Income stream for as long as you live.Participate in some of the stock market gains with no downside risk.Additional opportunity for tax deferred growth.What are the types of annuities?Annuities fall into two major categories: Immediate Annuities and Deferred Annuities.The way you fund annuities can vary. There are Single pay annuities that are funded with one lump sum payment or annuities that you fund over a series of installments.The most important thing about an annuity is how does your money grow and the safety of the principal. The basic methods are as follows:Fixed Annuity- Earns a specified rate of return for a specified period of time. Be sure you understand what the guaranteed rate will be and how long it lasts. Indexed Annuity– Lets you participate in growth of an index (usually Stock) and provides protection during downturns in the market. These can be attractive in a volatile market but they do have higher fees and at times complicated formulas for calculating gains.Variable Annuity– Allows for a variety of investments which can increase or decrease in value. No guarantee of return or principal. Usually come with high fees and expenses. Before you buy an annuity as with any other major financial decision you need to be informed.Some questions to ask:What are the guaranteed returns?What are the fees, caps and surrender charges?How long does the income last?Will my heirs receive the remaining balance upon my death?Annuities are not as great as they are sometimes made out to be neither are they as bad as they are made out to be.If you want to guarantee income for the rest of your life, fixed annuities are well worth consideration.If you want to roll the dice a little and take a chance at greater return but still protect your principal, indexed annuities are worth a look.If you want to ride the ups and downs of the stock market, invest in the market. Variable annuities are an expensive way to invest.Rates, fees and charges vary greatly from product to product and company to company. The devil is in the details. If you feel an annuity might be for you. Find an independent advisor you are comfortable with, you should not feel pressure. Get several quotes from different insurance companies and ask a lot of questions. Bakul Modi is the founder ofProtection from Life, a fast growing agency based in North Carolina dedicated toInsurance a Better Way. If you have any questions or would like a consultation please contact me at 919-525-1781 orprotectionfromlife@gmail.com.  If you would like to learn aboutInsurance a Better Wayor join our team please visithttp://www.ProtectionfromLife.com ...read more

Entrepreneurs have a lot to learn in a short amount of time, have a lot of hats to wear and many decisions to make about their business. One of the most important early decisions you will make is choosing the right advisors. We know the importance of choosing the right attorney, accountant, banker and board members. Something often overlooked is the insurance advisor – even though the consequences of not having the appropriate types and levels of insurance coverage can be disastrous for any business. One of the hottest concerns of the day is health care insurance. With the inherent complexities of health care reform, small business can benefit from working with an insurance advisor. While some of the basics of the law have been settled, there remains a lot of uncertainty. We know that exchanges will be established with several tiers of basic plans for people that meet certain income limitations, for example. It is not clear, however, which companies will participate. In addition to the exchanges there will be similar plans with additional benefits for non-subsidized individuals. Plans will offer varied deductibles and copays that range from 60/40 to 90/10. How do you decide? The right advisor will help you understand the differences between offerings from several companies, and help you find the best, most affordable option for your needs. One of the biggest positive effects of this healthcare reform plan is that preexisting conditions will not disqualify one from getting coverage. It is believed that this may encourage more people to tackle the risk of starting a business, where previously they may have felt trapped inside a job simply because of the healthcare coverage. There has been significant discussion surrounding the temptation for entrepreneurs – especially younger entrepreneurs -- to work without a net, forgoing insurance and paying the penalty. This can be disastrous to the business. Yet, without strategic advice one may never understand why, or how best to balance the costs of running a business with the need for insurance. No entrepreneur knows it all. So when you’re establishing policies, lean on the advice that a specialist can offer to be sure that you’re in compliance with the new healthcare law – and getting the most value for your investment. ...read more