The Deal On Life Settlements  Life insurance was always intended
as a nest egg for providing for your loved ones after your
death. But so-called "life settlements" are growing in
popularity. What are they and are they a good deal for you? Ray
Hennessey, editor of, explains what exactly they are.  Life
Settlements are when a company buys your life insurance policy
for less than the full amount of the policy. This is a way of
getting cash in your hands now. But there are things to consider
before you do this.  Shop around for better offers. "Chances are
someone is going to approach you and say would you like to sell
your life insurance policy," Hennessey says. "Just because they
are the first person who calls, doesn't mean you have to take
that offer." Also feel free to negotiate for a higher value.
Also, beware of high commissions. "Just like any brokerage
transaction, they take a very steep fee out of this," Hennessey
warns. "So not only do you not get all the money, but these
brokers are making tons of mone